USA Fencing HBCU Incubator Aspires to Ignite a New Era in Collegiate Athletics

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — For academically rigorous institutions like HBCUs, the thrilling strategy behind fencing — often called “physical chess” — aligns perfectly with their tradition of excellence. 

That’s why the USA Fencing HBCU Incubator program is working tirelessly to bring this dynamic sport to the next generation of Black student-athletes, uniting intellectual prowess with athletic vigor on campuses nationwide.

The program’s goal is to see multiple NCAA varsity fencing programs thriving at Historically Black Colleges and Universities by the LA28 Olympics and Paralympics, forging a national powerhouse of Black fencing excellence. The rapid growth of fencing among Black youth — a 47% increase since 2019 — highlights a thriving community of young competitors ready for collegiate-level challenges.

Beyond the burgeoning talent pool, there’s fencing’s emphasis on discipline, leadership and strategy — a great fit for institutions renowned for producing high-achieving graduates. Plus, adding fencing, as athletic directors will learn, will cost less than administrators think — especially with startup support from USA Fencing and its network of partners.

“Fencing fosters discipline, leadership and critical thinking, and we’re thrilled to bring these opportunities to HBCUs through the Incubator program,” says Brad Suchorski, Director of Membership, Service and Growth for USA Fencing. “We know that by expanding the sport’s reach, we can continue to create life-changing experiences for student-athletes from all backgrounds.”

The benefits continue from there. New fencing teams at HBCUs could boost recruiting efforts, attract high-performing students who value discipline and leadership, and open doors to NCAA competition, Olympic and Paralympic pathways, and leadership development well beyond graduation. 

Several notable fencers have paved the way for Black excellence in the sport, including Ibtihaj Muhammad OLY, Peter Westbrook OLY and Paris 2024 double-medalist Lauren Scruggs OLY. 

“I know from my own fencing career and from coaching champions in both life and in athletics that the sport offers a unique blend of athleticism and strategy, making it a perfect addition to HBCUs,” says Don Anthony, a U.S. Fencing Foundation Trustee and Head Coach of The Ohio State University Fencing Team. “With both of my parents being proud graduates of HBCUs, I’m especially committed to supporting the tradition of excellence these institutions uphold. It’s a sport that not only builds champions on the strip but also leaders in life.”

Learn more at https://www.usafencing.org/hbcu-incubator