COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The future of fencing in the United States just got even brighter.
Today, the U.S. Fencing Foundation announced the addition of two dynamic leaders to its Board of Trustees — helping the Foundation make an even greater impact on the sport we love.
Jeff Weber, a veteran Wall Street executive with a lifelong passion for fencing, and Ellen Geddes PLY, a two-time Paralympian and five-time Wheelchair World Championship Team member, bring their unique perspectives and deep dedication to the Foundation’s mission: to ensure that fencers at every level have the resources they need to succeed — whether they're just starting out or aiming for Olympic and Paralympic podiums.
The U.S. Fencing Foundation, which is the philanthropic arm of USA Fencing, helps USA Fencing build champions and create a lasting legacy for the future of the sport through financial support for teams, athletes and programs.
Serving as a trustee of the U.S. Fencing Foundation is a vital role that involves guiding the Foundation’s mission, connecting with donors and supporting fundraising initiatives. Now let’s meet Ellen and Jeff!
Ellen Geddes PLY: A Two-Time Paralympian Fights for Parafencing
Through her work both on and off the fencing strip, Ellen Geddes PLY has demonstrated excellence throughout her fencing career. After a car accident in 2011 left her with a spinal cord injury, Ellen was introduced to wheelchair fencing during rehabilitation, thanks to an invitation from national team member Dennis Aspy.
Just one year after picking up a fencing weapon, she earned a spot on her first Wheelchair World Championship Team. Since then, Ellen has represented Team USA at five World Championships and dozens of World Cups.
She’s also worn the Stars & Stripes at the highest level of fencing — earning a spot on Team USA at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Paralympics.
Ellen’s competitive spirit and dedication to the sport are evident, but her passion extends beyond personal achievement. She wanted to serve as a Trustee to raise awareness and support for parafencing within the U.S. Fencing Foundation.
“I was interested in joining the U.S. Fencing Foundation because it felt like a good way for me to give back to the sport, while adding a focus on parafencing into that group that has been lacking,” Geddes says.
As a trustee, Ellen hopes to inspire more fencers to embrace the sport and to ensure that parafencing receives the recognition and resources it deserves as USA Fencing strives to send its largest ever Paralympic fencing delegation to the LA 2028 Paralympics.
Jeff Weber: A Passionate Fencer Continues His Philanthropy
Jeff Weber brings a remarkable combination of professional expertise and a lifelong passion for fencing to his role as trustee. A seasoned leader from Wall Street, Jeff spent more than 30 years in asset management, where he served as President and Vice Chairman of York Capital Management, a prominent multi-strategy hedge fund. Since retiring from the finance world, Jeff has pivoted to the entertainment industry, producing films and documentaries, including Chasing Chasing Amy, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2023.
In addition to his career accomplishments, Jeff has a deep commitment to philanthropy. He is Chairman of the Board of the Carter Burden Network, a nonprofit dedicated to serving seniors in New York City, and he leads Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s Working Group on Aging. His involvement with Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Medicine further showcases his dedication to giving back.
Jeff's fencing journey began when he competed nationally in U-19 Men’s Saber and represented the Santelli Club in New York City. After fencing for Cornell University and Williams College, he remained an active member of the community, training at the Fencers Club in New York before stepping back from competitive fencing in the early 2000s. Today, as a Life member of USA Fencing, Jeff looks forward to contributing his energy and expertise to help elevate the sport for future generations.
"I am thrilled to join the board of the U.S. Fencing Foundation and contribute to the future of the sport,” Weber says. “Fencing played a pivotal role in my youth, instilling in me discipline, focus, and a profound appreciation for the art of competition. I look forward to leveraging my experiences and passion to support and advance the goals of USA Fencing.”
A New Era of Leadership
With Jeff’s financial expertise and Ellen’s dedication to inclusivity, the U.S. Fencing Foundation is poised to continue its mission of growing the sport and supporting athletes at every level. Fans and members of USA Fencing are encouraged to learn how they can make a financial gift to grow fencing through our website or by reaching out to one of our trustees.