History

The sport originated thousands of years ago in Ancient Egypt. Its initial purpose was combat practice, not sport. Before it became fencing, it was a practice for swordsman technique. Partners would pair up to practice dueling opponents in preparation for war. The practice became fun and the sport was born.

The Renaissance Period was the spread of fencing throughout Europe. Fencing first became popular in Italy around the 14th or 15th century with many schools starting, gaining popularity in the sport. By the 16th century, France had begun opening schools and implementing their style and rules. In the 19th century, Spain picked up on the sport and gave its twist to the style of fencing. In 1896, the first modern Olympics took place making fencing one of the first five sports competed at the games. 

Fencing was introduced to the United States and became recognized as a national sport in 1891. A small group of fencers organized the Amateur Fencing League of America (AFLA) and began the sport in the United States. Fencing did not gain much popularity in the U.S. due to schools not offering this sport because of expenses. It is predominantly played in California, New York, Texas, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, Illinois, Virginia, Massachusetts, and Ohio. Fencing is often perceived as an upper-class sport, but anyone and everyone who has access to a club can participate.