Hi, I am Jimmy, cofounder of Allez Fencing Club and now a fencer myself.

Like many fencing parents, I started out on the sidelines. I spent years watching my kids compete, trying to understand the rules, and driving them to practices and tournaments. Over time, I saw how much the sport offers—not just physically, but mentally. I also saw how tough it can be to navigate the fencing world, especially if you are new.

That is part of what motivated me to help launch Allez.

Seeing It Through a Parent’s Eyes

Fencing always felt out of reach when I was growing up. But after becoming a fencing parent six years ago, the barriers became even more clear. Access was limited, the development path was confusing, and many clubs focused heavily on a small group of standout athletes who started very young. Too often, those same kids ended up burning out from the pressure or losing interest altogether.

When our kids began fencing, my wife Jane and I quickly realized how overwhelming it all was. There was no roadmap. From understanding tournament formats and equipment to figuring out ratings and qualifications, we were left to piece it together ourselves. And the clubs we were part of, while well-intentioned, did not offer much guidance or support.

That experience stuck with us. We knew there had to be a better way, not just for our own kids but for every family stepping into the sport, whether the goal is recreational fun or competition at the regional, national, or international level.

We wanted to create a place where no one feels like they have to figure it out on their own. A place that values long-term growth over quick wins and supports fencers at every stage in a way that keeps them motivated, confident, and excited to keep going. That is the heart of what we are building at Allez.

Stepping Onto the Strip

After years of watching from the sidelines, I decided to try fencing myself to better understand how it feels from my kids' perspective. After just a few lessons, I signed up for a tournament and stepped onto the strip. I was nervous. I was unsure. I was completely out of my comfort zone.

But it was also incredibly fun. The adrenaline, the focus, the energy—it lit something up in me. I remembered what it feels like to be a beginner again. To try something new. To show up not knowing how it will go, and to give it everything you have.

That experience gave me a deeper respect for the sport and for the hard work our coaches and kids put in every day. I saw just how much courage it takes to compete, and how important it is to feel supported throughout the journey.

It also reminded me that adults need support too. Fencing should not be just for kids.Whether you are a parent, a college student, or someone who has always wanted to try fencing but never had the chance, you deserve a space that meets you where you are and helps you grow.

Why Allez Matters

At Allez, we are building the kind of club we wish we had when we started. A place where families feel supported, where fencers at every level are seen, and where growth is steady, sustainable, and celebrated.

Whether you are new to the sport or have been fencing for years, we hope you will stop by and see it for yourself.

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