AFU
Fencing League for the Future
100% Community Funded – 100% For Fencing
The American Fencing Union is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization operating in parallel with USA Fencing. Our mission is to build a safe, inclusive, accessible, and sustainable fencing community for athletes of all gender identities, socio-economic backgrounds, and experience levels. We are committed to fair competition, transparent leadership, and supporting the people who make fencing possible — from athletes and coaches to referees and volunteers. By centering our values in every event and initiative, we work to ensure that everyone has a place to train, compete, and grow in the sport we love.
American Fencing Union
The American Fencing Union is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and a community-led organization operating in parallel with USA Fencing.
We organize fencing tournaments, support clubs and coaches, and advocate for fair treatment of referees and athletes alike. Guided by a commitment to inclusion, transparency, and sustainability, we work to make fencing safe and welcoming for everyone, regardless of gender identity, background, or income. Membership in the American Fencing Union is not exclusive — fencers, coaches, and clubs are welcome to participate in both organizations. Every event and program we run is designed to strengthen the sport and support the people who keep its spirit alive.
Fostering Inclusivity and Growth in Fencing
At the American Fencing Union, we champion inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability in the sport of fencing. We support athletes from all backgrounds, ensure fair compensation for referees, support staff, armorers, and everyone who makes a tournament possible. We provide affordable tournaments and foster transparent, community-driven engagement. As a parallel organization to USA Fencing, we welcome fencers, coaches, and clubs to be part of both communities, working together to strengthen the sport for everyone.
Our Members
AFU members come from every corner of the fencing community: athletes, coaches, referees, armorers, parents, and supporters.
By joining, each member pledges to uphold our core values of respect, fairness, and inclusion — on and off the strip.
Every member is expected to abide by our clear Code of Conduct, which ensures that bullying, harassment, discrimination, and other forms of misconduct will not be tolerated. We are committed to protecting the emotional, physical, and mental safety and dignity of all athletes, volunteers, and supporters.
Jessi Milestone
Treasurer
National Coach and Referee
Alex Gioiella
Secretary
National Referee and Attorney
Fair Dues, Not Fees
AFU membership dues are set each year to cover only what’s truly needed — insurance, legal protections, and basic administration.
As our membership grows, everyone benefits: more members mean lower dues for all.
Any surplus goes right back into the fencing community — developing referees, athletes, and coaches; supporting clubs; growing youth programs; and keeping tournaments affordable — never wasted on bloated overhead.
If costs ever exceed dues, we’ll use our reserve fund first, ask for voluntary donations next, and only as a last resort apply a small, capped assessment to avoid surprises.
Transparent Leadership
We believe trust comes from openness and accountability. Our clear structure, fair policies, and open communication ensure that members always know how decisions are made and how their voice can help shape the future of our organization.
Responsible Stewardship
We spend only what’s necessary to run our organization effectively. Every dollar supports the people, clubs, and programs that keep fencing strong — never wasted on unnecessary overhead.
Inclusive Community
We welcome athletes, coaches, referees, and supporters from all walks of life. Respect, fairness, and safety — emotional, physical, and mental — are non-negotiable in everything we do.
Always Building, Always Listening
The American Fencing Union is a living community — constantly growing, improving, and learning.
We know that not every decision will please everyone, but we promise to listen, adapt, and communicate openly.
Our commitment is simple:
Do what’s right for our athletes, our volunteers, and the sport we love. Together, we will build a stronger, fairer future for fencing in America.
Get Updates
American Fencing Union is new and growing. If you love fencing and would like updates as we develop, sign up for the newsletter below for important updates.
News sign-up form coming soon
American Fencing Union
2208 S Vandeventer Ave
St. Louis, MO 63110
+1 (636) 236-7852
contact@americanfencingunion.org