USA Fencing Introduces the Gold Start Program for Under‑18 Referees

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — In fencing, officials wear suits, not stripes — and now, a select few referees will show off a sharp gold accent that tells the room: the next generation of officials is on the strip.

Modeled on USA Hockey’s Green Armband concept, USA Fencing’s new Gold Start program recognizes and supports referees under age 18 who are beginning what we hope will be a lifelong journey in our sport. 

Starting this season, these young referees will be awarded a gold scarf or tie to wear with their officiating attire. The signal is simple and unmistakable: this official is learning the craft, and the entire community — athletes, coaches, and spectators — plays a role in helping them grow.

“Among the many lessons I’ve learned about fencing in my three-plus years with the organization is that officiating is a craft,” says Phil Andrews, USA Fencing CEO. “The Gold Start program is our invitation to every coach, athlete, and parent to help these young leaders succeed — with patience, respect, and gratitude. When you see gold on the strip, you’re looking at the future of fencing. Let’s make sure they want to stay.”

Just as USA Hockey’s initiative asked participants to recognize developing officials and model good behavior, the Gold Start program asks our community to engage the right way: ask questions at the prescribed times, address concerns respectfully, and save coaching for your athletes — not the official.

“The scarf or tie gives everyone a clear, respectful cue: this referee is under 18 and building experience,” says Tanner Gonzales, USA Fencing Officials Coordinator. “Please offer patience and civility — and if you have feedback, bring it through the proper channels. A single positive interaction can be the difference between a young official staying with fencing or walking away.”

Why does this matter? It’s pretty simple: Without referees, there are no bouts. 

Today’s Gold Start officials just might become tomorrow’s FIE‑rated referees across foil, epee, and saber. The program helps them gain confidence, sharpens judgment through real‑world experience, and strengthens our pipeline of well‑trained officials.

To every young official in a gold scarf or tie: thank you for stepping up. And to the fencing family around you: when you spot that flash of gold, we invite you to help our sport’s future shine.

Scarfs/ties will be automatically sent to under-18 referees, as long as they have an active membership and have completed the exams, seminars and been awarded a P rating. USA Fencing expects to distribute these by the end of September, so keep an eye on your mailbox in the coming weeks!