Black Boys Fence Nonprofit Turns Curiosity Into Confidence, One School Visit at a Time

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — When a group of elementary schoolers sees a fencer in a white jacket and mask, someone always asks the million‑dollar question: “What is that?” 

Scott Holliday loves answering. The 17-year-old founder of Black Boys Fence (BBF) has built a movement around those moments of curiosity — bringing live demonstrations, school‑based clinics and an affirming storybook to communities where fencing is rarely on the radar. 

“I launched Black Boys Fence to help every child see themselves in fencing—a sport that builds focus, confidence, and joy,” Holliday says. “Through school partnerships and community outreach, we’re removing barriers so underrepresented kids can discover the power of the blade.”

Launched in 2023 and based in the Chicago area, BBF partners with schools, youth programs and local clubs to create welcoming first steps into the sport. It’s youth‑led by design, with Holliday mentoring newcomers and modeling what access, representation and fun can look like in a sport still growing its reach. The BBF site underscores that the invitation is for everyone — the name is an affirmation and a promise that all kids belong. 

Storytelling is part of the secret sauce. Holliday wrote Scott’s Fantastic Fencing Journey: A Kid’s Guide to Fencing, a colorful, beginner‑friendly book that follows Scott and his friends as they learn footwork, strategy and the heart of fencing. He says the book is now featured in dozens of school libraries — one more way to spark a love of the sport before a child ever puts on a mask. 

“Scott’s Fantastic Fencing Journey was written to make fencing feel fun, inclusive, and within reach — especially for kids who’ve never seen the sport or imagined themselves in it,” he says. “It’s a story that opens doors and sparks curiosity.”

The impact numbers tell a story of momentum. Since 2023, Holliday says BBF has led more than 200 hours of live demos and volunteer coaching, mentored more than 300 students of color, donated over 100 books to K–8 schools across Chicago’s South and West sides, contributed $1,000 in starter gear, helped launch his high school’s first fencing team and recruited 10 new fencers — each a young person who can now see themselves on a strip. BBF’s own “About Us” page echoes the hands‑on approach: demos, gear donations and consistent presence where kids live and learn. 

Holliday’s enthusiasm is contagious. In a recent TV interview, he called fencing “my whole life,” a line that doubles as a mission statement and rallying cry for anyone who’s ever been hooked by this fast, chess‑on‑your‑feet sport. 

“It’s been incredible to see the book spark conversations and inspire new interest in fencing,” Holliday says. “I’m proud to be part of a community that celebrates achievement, uplifts youth, and believes in the impact of representation.”

How to get involved: Learn more about BBF on their official site. If you live in the Chicagoland area and want to support BBF, find details on their site. And if you want to support USA Fencing’s nationwide grassroots and access programs, contact Meghan DeFord at m.deford@usafencing.org.