Election for the Hall of Fame's Class of 2026#

Herbert Cohen
Herb Cohen graduated from New York University (NYU) in 1962, winning the NCAA foil championship in 1961–62. He was Amateur Fencers League of America (AFLA) foil champion in 1964. At the Martini & Rossi Invitational, Cohen finished third in 1962 and 1964 and second in 1963. At the 1963 Pan American Games, Cohen won a bronze medal in individual foil and a gold medal with the U.S. foil team. He also competed at the 1961 Maccabiah Games in Israel. He later coached fencing in various high schools in the New York area, as well as at NYU and Manhattan College. In high school at Abraham Lincoln HS in Brooklyn and at NYU, Cohen fenced alongside one of his schoolmates, Neil Diamond — better known for his singing.

Kelley Hurley
Throughout a career that spanned nearly two decades, Kelley helped lead and establish a new standard for American women's epee fencing. From early promise to international podiums, she approached every challenge on the strip with determination, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the team.
Beginning with Cadet and Junior World Championship titles—both individually and as part of Team USA—Kelley earned a reputation for dominance at a young age. That momentum carried into collegiate competition at the University of Notre Dame, where she became a four-time All-American and captured the NCAA National Championship in 2008, following a runner-up finish the year prior.
Representing the United States on four Olympic teams (2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020), Kelley stood on the Olympic podium in 2012 with a Team Bronze Medal—an achievement that still sets the standard in U.S. women's epee. Kelley also contributed to a historic Senior World Championship Team gold in 2018, a milestone that reflected years of perseverance and the strength of the U.S. squad.
Kelley qualified for every Senior World Championship team from age 15 (2003) until her final year in the sport in 2021. During this time, she dominated the zone, winning four zonal championships in a row from 2016–2019, a record she shares with her sister, Courtney Hurley. Additionally, she won numerous NACs and five National titles, holding the record in women's epee with her sister. Multiple Pan American gold medals, both individually and with the team, further illustrated a career built not only on results but on consistency, resilience, and trust in teammates.
For over 25 years, Kelley’s life centered around fencing. While the desire for success was always the driving force, it was also about contributing to something greater and inspiring the next generation. It’s that spirit that defines her legacy—and why she is proud to be part of the story of American fencing.

Race Imboden
A dominant force in U.S. men’s foil, Race Imboden has left an indelible mark on the sport with his elegant fencing and tactical brilliance. A three-time Olympian and two-time Olympic bronze medalist in team foil (2016, 2020), Imboden has also claimed multiple World Championship and World Cup medals, including a historic team gold at the 2019 World Championships. A former world No. 1, he was instrumental in elevating U.S. men’s foil to the global stage. Imboden stepped away from international competition after Tokyo, turning his focus to art and activism. Off the strip, he is known for his advocacy, using his platform to inspire change beyond sport.

Steve Kaplan
A prominent foil fencer during the 1970s and 1980s, Steve Kaplan was a key member of the U.S. National Fencing Team. He represented the United States in multiple international competitions and was known for his technical precision and strategic approach to foil fencing. Kaplan’s contributions and consistency made him one of the notable American foilists of his era, laying groundwork for future generations.

Tom Losonczy
A distinguished epee fencer, Tom Losonczy was a prominent competitor in the mid-20th century. He represented the United States in international competitions and was recognized for his skill and significant contributions to the development of epee fencing in the country. Losonczy’s influence extended beyond his competitive years, as he helped shape training techniques and inspired many young epeeists.

Tim Morehouse
A trailblazer in American saber fencing, Tim Morehouse propelled the sport into the spotlight with his silver medal in men’s team saber at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. A three-time Olympian (2004, 2008, 2012), he also earned a top-8 individual finish at the London Games.
Tim has been a nine-time national team member, a two-time individual national champion, and a multiple-time World Cup medalist who ranked during several seasons in the top 10 in the world. Additionally, Tim was instrumental in securing Team USA’s gold medal at the 2011 Pan American Games.
Morehouse’s impact extends far beyond his competitive achievements. Passionate about the sport’s growth, he founded the Tim Morehouse Fencing Club, now recognized as one of the nation’s premier fencing institutions, and he promotes fencing education in schools through his nonprofit, Fencing in the Schools. He remains a dedicated advocate and influential leader, continually shaping the future of fencing in the United States. Most recently, Morehouse has taken on the role of Director of Team USA Men’s Saber.

Ibtihaj Muhammad
Breaking barriers in fencing, Ibtihaj Muhammad made history at the 2016 Olympic Games as the first American woman to compete in the Olympics wearing a hijab and the first Muslim-American woman to win an Olympic medal. A five-time Senior World medalist and World Champion, her achievements extend beyond the fencing strip.
Muhammad serves as a sports ambassador, is a New York Times bestselling author of a children’s book series, and has a Barbie modeled in her likeness. Named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the world, she is an important figure in a larger global discussion on equality and the importance of sport. In 2024, Muhammad released a new children’s book, further expanding her efforts to inspire and empower youth.

Nicole Ross
A cornerstone of U.S. women's foil for over a decade, Nicole Ross represented Team USA at the 2012 and 2020 Olympic Games, helping to elevate American women's foil on the world stage. An 11-time member of the U.S. Senior National Team, Ross played a key role on the U.S. women’s foil squad that won silver, bronze, and their first historic gold medal at the World Championships.
Individually, Ross was a Pan American Champion, multiple-time World Cup and Grand Prix medallist, and ranked as high as No. 4 in the world. In the second half of her near 25-year sport career, she deeply valued coaching and mentorship, helping to shape the next generation of fencers with her expertise and leadership.
Now off the strip, Nicole works in the mental health field and is a Ph.D. candidate in clinical psychology. Her research focuses on developing mental health interventions and strategies to support athletes through sport and life transitions.

Dagmara Wozniak
A powerhouse in women’s saber, Dagmara Wozniak’s explosive style and fierce determination have defined her career. A three-time Olympian and 2016 team bronze medalist, she has been a fixture on the international circuit, earning numerous World Cup, Grand Prix, and Pan American medals.
Known for her relentless energy and passion, Wozniak has inspired the next generation of fencers through her mentorship and coaching. In 2024, she was named Head Coach of the U.S. Women’s Saber National Team, marking a new chapter in her legacy. Her contributions to U.S. fencing, both on and off the strip, have solidified her place as one of the sport’s greats.

Elizabeth Kocab
Renowned for her unwavering dedication, poise, and outstanding fencing skills, Elizabeth Kocab is one of the most accomplished veteran epee fencers in the sport. Her impressive record boasts multiple national and international titles, including a record-setting nine individual Veteran World Championship gold medals.
As a key member of the U.S. Veteran World Championships teams, Kocab has consistently delivered outstanding performances, securing multiple podium finishes, including two team gold medals. Her tactical and technical prowess, combined with a deep passion for fencing, has cemented her status as a dominant force in veteran women’s epee.
Kocab’s remarkable achievements and commitment to the sport will undoubtedly inspire future generations of fencers, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of fencing. She concluded her veteran competitive career with a final World title in 2024.

Julie Seal
Julie Seal's illustrious fencing career spans over 30 years, marked by excellence both as a competitor and coach. A Fencing Master of Arms skilled in foil, saber, and epee, Seal has achieved remarkable success: 26 national gold medals, 22 silver, 43 bronze, and several international medals, including Veteran World Champion titles in women’s foil and saber in 2023. Her coaching prowess is evidenced by numerous national medals won by her students. Seal is a member of the U.S. Fencing Coaches Association and Académie d’Armes Internationale. Beyond her fencing accolades, she is a devoted mother of five, valuing her family as her greatest accomplishment.

Jennette Starks-Faulkner
Jennette Starks-Faulkner has been a dominant figure in veteran fencing since her return to the sport in the 2006–2007 season. She has been the Veteran Foil National Champion 12 times and has represented the United States on 16 consecutive Veteran World Championship Foil teams. In 2014, at the age of 60, Starks-Faulkner decided to pick up a saber. She was the 2015 Veteran Saber National Champion and has represented the USA on eight Veteran World Championship Saber teams.
She has amassed well over 100 national medals — notably, 38 gold (4 saber), 29 silver (6 saber), and 34 bronze (13 saber). Starks-Faulkner has been a Veteran World Champion five times (1 saber) and anchored the Veteran World Foil team for over a decade, leading the foil team to two gold medals — and in 2024, leading the Veteran World Saber team to a gold medal as well. She has earned 19 Veteran World Championship medals: 9 gold (2 saber), 6 silver (1 saber), and 4 bronze (1 saber).
Outside of her own fencing, Starks-Faulkner has supported the sport as a club owner, coach, and referee. As a coach, she has worked with children, high school students, and collegiate athletes. She has also refereed both high school and college matches throughout New England. She served on the Executive Board of the National Intercollegiate Women’s Fencing Association (NIWFA), one of the oldest women’s sports associations in the U.S.

Anne-Marie Walters
A titan in veteran foil, Anne-Marie Walters has spent over 30 years at the pinnacle of competitive fencing, earning a place on 17 USA Veteran World Championship teams. A four-time National Veteran Champion and Brooklyn College Athletic Hall of Famer, she has amassed an astonishing 10 individual World medals, three Veteran World Championship titles, and six USA team golds.
Her dominance at the national level is just as impressive, with 26 NAC golds and more than 50 total NAC medals. Ranked No. 1 in the U.S. across three veteran age categories, Walters continues to set the standard in the sport, mentoring new team members while refining her craft under coach Rafael Suarez.
Off the strip, the retired teacher finds joy in traveling with her husband, family, and friends, cherishing time with her children and grandchildren. Walters’ legacy is one of resilience, excellence, and unwavering passion — an inspiration to fencers of all generations.

Gary Copeland
A cornerstone of Colorado’s fencing community, Gary Copeland has been shaping athletes and growing the sport for over four decades. As the founder and head coach of Northern Colorado Fencers (NCF), established in 1979, he has built one of the state’s premier fencing programs.
His dedication to developing fencers at all levels has led to numerous national and international successes, with his students excelling in competitions across the country. Beyond medals and rankings, Copeland’s impact is measured by the generations of athletes he has mentored, fostering a culture of discipline, sportsmanship, and love for the sport.

Mark Masters
Head Fencing Master and founder of the Fencing Academy of Philadelphia, Mark Masters is a certified fitness instructor from the American College of Sports Medicine. In addition to his certifications from the U.S. Fencing Coaches Association and the International Academy of Arms as a fencing master, Maestro Masters holds a degree as Master of Arts & Education in Recreation Programming and Management. He graduated cum laude from Wayne State University with a Master of Arts degree in Education.
As a competitor, Maestro lived and trained abroad with some of the best European fencing masters. Leading the first full-time professional fencing business in the country, he has inspired many other clubs and coaches. His contributions to the sport have been widely recognized, including his role as a U.S. Olympic coach for the 2024 Games and his service on the U.S. Fencing Coaches Association’s Professional Development Committee as a Coach Developer.
Maestro Masters has had numerous personal and coaching achievements in fencing. He takes pride in training Olympic gold medalist Maia Weintraub, world champions Graham Wicas in epee and Delia Turner in saber, as well as Junior World team fencers in all weapons. His legacy also includes coaching Tristan Szapary, one of the USA’s top men’s epee fencers. In recognition of his dedication to coaching excellence, Maestro Masters was honored with the Olympic Order of Ikkos Medal by his athlete in Paris — one of the highest accolades awarded to coaches who have guided an athlete to an Olympic medal.

Gil Pezza
Maestro Gil Pezza is a trailblazing figure in the world of fencing, renowned for his exceptional coaching prowess and unwavering dedication to mentoring the next generation of coaches. With an impressive record of five NCAA Team Championships and numerous individual titles, Pezza's coaching legacy is built on a foundation of excellence and innovation.
He empowers coaches and fencers through his passion for teaching and mentoring, developing and leading numerous professional development and certification clinics for fencing coaches — including his work at the Coaches College, where he led the epee program. Pezza's pioneering work in promoting women's epee fencing paved the way for future generations, and his role as the first national coach for women's epee with the U.S. Women's Team marked a significant milestone in the sport's history.
Since 2011, he has focused on coaching veteran fencers, helping them achieve their full potential on the national and international level. He is also the author of many learned articles about fencing, including In Search of Lost Time in Today’s Fencing (2019). His influence continues to shape the next generation of fencers and coaches.

Laurie Schiller
Laurie Schiller is not only the most successful fencing coach in Northwestern history — he is the winningest coach in any sport at the university. With over 1,250 victories to his credit, Schiller has more wins than all but one other coach in the sport's history. He was the second head coach to reach 1,000 wins in a career and guided the Wildcats to 17 consecutive top-10 finishes at the NCAA Championships.
Under his leadership, 34 athletes earned All-American honors, and Northwestern captured four Midwest Conference Championships. When the men's varsity team transitioned to club status in 1995, Schiller's dedication never wavered. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Collegiate Fencing Championships (CFC), where his men’s team went on to win five overall three-weapon national titles, along with numerous squad and individual championships.
Beyond his coaching success, Schiller has contributed significantly to the sport at the national level. He served on the USA Fencing Board of Directors for eight years and holds the prestigious title of Fencing Master in all three weapons — a testament to his lifelong commitment to the art and discipline of fencing.

Leon Auriol
Leon Auriol was a distinguished French-American fencing master who significantly transformed fencing in the Pacific Northwest. Born in Toulouse, France, in 1927, he began fencing in 1948 and quickly rose to prominence, winning a gold medal in saber in Austria in 1955 and earning his "prévot d'armes" title the same year. After obtaining his Maître d'Armes certification in Paris in 1960, Auriol immigrated to the United States in 1963, settling in Seattle.
He established Salle Auriol, a renowned fencing club that became a powerhouse of competitive fencing, coaching numerous notable athletes including Peter Bakony, a Canadian Olympic epee team member. Auriol coached internationally, including for the Canadian Team at the World Championships in 1974 and in Mexico in 1975, where his junior squad member Tim Glass won a bronze medal in epee.
Throughout his career, he was instrumental in developing competitive fencing culture in the Pacific Northwest, founding multiple fencing clubs in Seattle and Portland, and training generations of fencers across two countries and multiple states.

Gerrie Baumgart
Gerrie Baumgart was a trailblazer in the world of fencing officiating, achieving several historic firsts that paved the way for women in the sport. Born in Chicago in 1940 and later a long-time resident of Denver, Baumgart discovered fencing in 1966 and quickly became a vital member of the community.
She was the first U.S. woman to receive an International A rating from the FIE and the first American woman to officiate fencing at both the Olympic Games and Olympic finals. Her pioneering efforts were recognized in 2014 with the Fencing Officials Commission Distinguished Service Award. Baumgart's legacy as a mentor and leader in fencing officiating remains influential, underscoring her dedication and impact on the sport.

Peter Harmer
Peter Harmer's commitment to the health and safety of fencers led him to establish the sports medicine program for USA Fencing. Beginning in 1989, he provided care to the national team at 18 World Championships and in 2000 created, directed, and staffed the sports medicine program for all USA Fencing national events — a program that continues today. He was Chief Medical Officer until 2013.
Harmer was elected to the FIE Medical Commission in 2000 and served for 16 years, during which time he was appointed medical supervisor for 13 World Championships, as well as the 2006 Asian Games and the 2015 Pan American Games.
His research on fencing injury risk resulted in several rule changes to increase fencer safety and helped numerous fencing programs become established by providing compelling scientific evidence to counter opposition from administrators and insurers convinced of the myth that fencing was too dangerous to support.

Jon Moss
Jon Moss is a distinguished figure in the fencing community, renowned for his extensive experience as a referee at both national and international levels. He began his refereeing career in 1979 and has been a presence at World Cup events since 1996.
Moss has notably officiated at five Paralympic Games, demonstrating his expertise across all three fencing weapons, for which he holds an IWAS A rating. His leadership skills were recognized with his election as Chair of the Referees’ Commission, where he was responsible for the training and development of international referees.
In addition to his refereeing duties, Moss contributes to the sport by coaching at the University of New Hampshire and Tanner City Fencing Club. In 2025, he was appointed to the World Para Fencing Referees' Commission, continuing his service to the sport on a global scale.

Andy Shaw
Andy Shaw, USA Fencing’s Official Historian, has significantly shaped the preservation of American fencing history. Owner of the Museum of American Fencing, Shaw curates the largest private collection of fencing memorabilia in the country.
His fencing career, influenced by mentors like Csaba Elthes and Giorgio Santelli, includes competitive highlights such as participating in the U.S. Men’s Foil Olympic Trials. Beyond competition, Shaw has contributed extensively as a coach, official, and media consultant, enhancing public and cultural appreciation of fencing.
His efforts have established him as a pivotal figure in promoting and preserving the heritage of fencing in the United States.