USA Fencing

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The battle against the flu and COVID-19 is about to get a big shot in the arm.

USA Fencing is excited to announce the launch of Point Control, a campaign aimed at fostering health and wellness within the fencing community by providing Flu (influenza) and COVID-19 vaccinations at select regional and national tournaments throughout the 2023-2024 season.

This initiative is a part of Coaching You Up, a broader collaboration spearheaded by USA Boxing, in concert with the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP), that has expanded to include USA Fencing, USA Judo, USA Curling and USA Karate. The campaign, which USA Boxing cleverly says is designed to "KO the flu and COVID," aims to mitigate the impact of these viruses that, combined, claim hundreds of thousands of lives annually.

Phil Andrews, CEO of USA Fencing, says he’s thrilled to join this vital effort. 

"Point Control exemplifies the solidarity within the sporting community toward promoting health and wellness. This initiative not only underscores our commitment to the community but also it aligns with our broader mission of fostering wellness among all who participate in fencing."

Through Point Control, USA Fencing aims to keep our athletes, coaches, volunteers and officials healthy and on the strip, while also being good stewards of public health in the greater community. Furthermore, regional organizers can apply to host vaccination events as part of their tournaments. Those selected will receive additional funding, creating a win-win scenario for all involved. 

This expansion was made possible with a sub-grant awarded by USAging’s Aging and Disability Vaccination Collaborative and funded through the U.S. Administration for Community Living. The implementation of this program will continue to be supported by McUlsky Health Force (MHF) a strategic advocacy firm which focuses on advocacy relations, health care policy and strategic communications.

And if someone at a USA Fencing tournament has questions or concerns about vaccines, side effects and medication, they’ll be encouraged to interact with licensed pharmacists, as health coaches, at the onsite mobile clinic. These local healthcare providers can administer vaccines and review any of the educational materials on display. 

The campaign, outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding between USA Boxing and USA Fencing, will see approximately 50 onsite activations spread across the U.S. from now through April 15, 2024. With a target of administering 25,000 vaccinations, Point Control is poised to make a significant impact in promoting health and wellness within and beyond the fencing community.

Point Control will officially launch at the October 2023 NAC in Orlando, Fla., where attendees can visit the clinic any day between noon and 4 p.m. Bring your insurance card!