USA Fencing Honors 2024-25 Social Impact Award Winners
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by Nicole Kirk
Colorado Springs, CO – USA Fencing is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Social Impact Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to advancing inclusivity, accessibility, and excellence within the sport of fencing.
The Mariel Zagunis Women’s Advancement Award goes to Forge Fencing Academy for its dedication to creating access and opportunities for athletes, coaches, and clubs in Region 6. Built on the foundation of responsible growth and community support, Forge Fencing Academy continues to strengthen and unite the sport.
Coaches Jen Oldham and Jeff Kallio expressed their gratitude saying, “We want to take this moment to express our deepest gratitude to all who have supported us in building—and sustaining—a strong and united fighting community. Your dedication fuels our mission, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.”
The Peter Westbrook Trailblazer Award is awarded to National Capital Fencers Club, which follows in the footsteps of Peter Westbrook by providing exposure, access, and opportunities to youth in underserved communities. Through a partnership with Saint Augustine Catholic School, NCFC is shaping the next generation of fencers and leaders.
The Leszek Maestro Stawicki Parafencing Award is presented to German Fencing Academy, whose commitment to inclusion is evident in fully integrated practices where parafencers train alongside their peers. Their belief that “parafencing is fencing” embodies the spirit of respect and unity in the sport. Their success on the strip is also noteworthy, with parafencers like Cora Weeks winning national medals while representing GFA.
German Fencing Academy said “We are so excited and honored to have our efforts recognized by USA Fencing! We stand for the physical and character development through fencing; and parafencing is fencing. If you value respect, being inclusive just happens. Our practices are fully integrated - every one of our fencers practices in the chair.”
The ASPIRE Award is given to Dunwoody Fencing Club, which has made an incredible impact by introducing fencing to students with language-based learning differences. Their efforts are expanding horizons for young athletes who never thought they could participate in the sport.
USA Fencing congratulates all the awardees for their inspiring work in growing the sport and making it more inclusive for all.
