Project Empower Returns: Building the Next Generation of Women and Non-Binary Fencing Leaders

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Project Empower returns for a third season! Join USA Fencing's mission to help build the next generation of women and non-binary leaders.

Cohort members will experience a five-month development program that will provide participants with necessary skills to be successful leaders and coaches.

As an organization we have made strides to increase the representation of women and non-binary members in our sport! That starts with creating inclusive spaces that can serve as pipelines for these individuals to succeed.

Here’s how the program works: Over the course of five months, aspiring or new women and non-binary coaches with 3 or fewer years of coaching experience will be matched with seasoned coaches who will serve as a mentor and advocate for their mentee(s). Think of it as professional development specifically designed for fencing coaches.

Fifteen individuals will be selected to participate as mentees in this initial cohort. Mentees will be given interactive challenges to help develop their skills as a coach and leader, engage in virtual developmental workshops facilitated by industry leaders, and learn from and network with nationally recognized coaches who will share their experiences and best practices. 

By creating these connections, we hope to grow the number of women and non-binary coaches in USA Fencing and help these individuals thrive domestically and internationally. The program will assist in facilitating the growth and development of women coaches through:

• One-on-one coaching and mentoring

• Leadership development training sessions

• Establishing an ecosystem of support that encourages shared ideas and best practices 
  

There is no cost to apply for or participate in the program as a mentor or mentee. 

Ready to apply? Applications are now open and close Nov. 30th.

Eligibility:

Mentees

• Must be a member of USA Fencing

• Must attend mentorship training session

• Must have three years or less of experience

• Must attend all four developmental sessions

• Must meet with mentor a minimum of once per month 

Apply to be a mentee

Mentors

• Must be a member of USA Fencing

• Must have five or more years of coaching experience

• Must attend mentorship training session 

• Must commit to scheduling a minimum of one meeting per month with mentee

Apply to be a mentor

More About the Program:

• Held January to May

• Developmental sessions will be held every third Wednesday of the month at noon MT/2 p.m. ET on these dates:

• Jan. 15

• Feb. 19

• March 19

• April 23

• May 21 - Focus Group Session

• An in-person Award Presentation will take place at the Hall of Fame Ceremony at Summer Nationals.