In this episode, we’re excited to talk about the Fencing the Gap (FTG) initiative, a powerful movement designed to bring more diversity to the sport of fencing. Now in its third year, FTG is a collaboration between USA Fencing and All Kids Play, with a mission to get more BIPOC individuals, women and girls, and people with disabilities involved in fencing. FTG offers some amazing programs to help make this happen:

• GRACE Program: Provides financial help to fencers and families facing unexpected challenges that make it tough to compete nationally.

• Community Impact Fund: Grants for clubs that offer fencing in underserved areas, with a focus on supporting coaches from diverse backgrounds and giving potential athletes, who may not have had the chance, the opportunity to fence.

• Diverse Coaches Grant: Aims to boost diversity among coaches by funding training for new coaches from underrepresented groups.

• Support Fund Scholarship: Offers scholarships to clubs or individuals to financially support BIPOC fencers as they pursue their passion for the sport.

More here: https://www.usafencing.org/news/2024/september/20/usa-fencing-launches-third-year-of-fencing-the-gap-initiative-to-expand-access-to-the-sport

The application period for the 2025-26 season kicks off on September 23, 2024, and wraps up on December 31, 2024—so if you’re interested, don’t miss the chance!