Okay, so we're diving into something that caught my eye.
USA Fencing, they put out this press release
and it's got people talking.
Yeah, it's definitely interesting.
And we're gonna unpack it a little,
see what's really going on because on the surface,
it's all about making fencing more accessible.
And who doesn't love that, right?
But for those of us who follow the sport,
there's always more to the story.
Always.
So let's start with the basics.
USA Fencing is teaming up with Absolute Fencing.
Which for listeners who aren't familiar,
Absolute Fencing, they're a big supplier of, you know.
Year, yeah.
Yeah, all the gear you need from head to toe.
And they're launching this program to get this,
collect and donate fencing equipment.
At national tournament.
Exactly, so smart, right?
I mean, talk about a captive audience.
As the article mentions making fencing more accessible,
specifically in under-resourced areas.
Right, that's what caught my attention.
This seems like they're trying to reach
a whole new audience.
Yeah, and I think that's huge.
Because fencing, let's be honest,
it often gets this rap as being like an elite sport.
Right, it's got that reputation.
And that's partly because of the cost barrier.
Gear is expensive, lessons aren't cheap,
and then you factor in travel for competitions.
It adds up fast.
Yeah, for sure.
So this program, it seems like they're trying
to break down those barriers.
At least when it comes to the cost of equipment.
Exactly, and what I find really interesting
is how they're going about it.
I mean, they're not just setting up random donation boxes
in fencing clubs or whatever,
they're leveraging these huge events.
The NAC, the Super Junior Cadet Circuit.
Big, big tournaments.
Right, so they're tapping into this
existing infrastructure, it's efficient,
it raises awareness, and it gets people
thinking about the bigger picture.
Okay, so let's say I've got some fencing gear in my attic.
Well, they do specifically say gently used,
so maybe not the bent blade,
but they are open to a wide range of stuff.
I mean, the article lists blades, masks,
lame, even body cords, and scoring equipment.
Oh, wow, so like the whole shebang.
Pretty much, and the article even mentions
that the list isn't limited to those specific items, so.
So like, if you think it might be useful, just go for it.
It seems that way, which I appreciate.
It shows that they're trying to be flexible
and meet the needs of different communities.
Right, because a beginner fencer,
they don't need like the absolute top of the line gear.
Exactly, a lot of times kids are growing so fast,
they outgrow their gear before they even have a chance
to really wear it out.
So I'm picturing these huge bins at these tournaments,
just overflowing with fencing gear.
Right, though you can also mail your donation
directly to Absolute Fencing in New Jersey, if you prefer.
Well, that's good to know.
Just keep in mind, if you do choose to mail it,
you're responsible for the shipping costs.
Makes sense, okay, so bottom line,
USA Fencing is trying to make fencing more accessible.
And not just paying lip service to it, you know.
They're actually putting a system in place.
And it'll be interesting to see how it all plays out.
Like, will we see a surge in participation
from under-resourced areas?
And will it change how people view fencing?
Right, that's the million dollar question.
Exactly, I, for one, am curious to see what happens next.