USA Fencing

(Colorado Springs, Colo.) – Beginning with the 2022-23 season, all coaches and USA Fencing members working at a national tournament will be required to have taken sexual harassment prevention training through the U.S. Center for SafeSport.

With the new mandatory training, USA Fencing continues its commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment for all members that is free of abuse and misconduct by increasing awareness and providing education on SafeSport related issues.

The course is available to all USA Fencing members, but not required if not working a national tournament. Members required to take the training include, but are not limited to, coaches, referees, armorers, sports medicine, bout committee, vendors, volunteers, National Office staff and any other tournament officials working a national event.

Sexual Harassment Prevention Training FAQs

This course does not take the place of your state’s mandated sexual harassment training or the required USA Fencing SafeSport training and background screen.

The training, which is one hour in length and will include adult-on-adult interactions, will be offered both virtually and in person. Five virtual sessions will be available from December 2021 to May 2022. To register, click on the links below:

• Tuesday, December 7 at 5 p.m. MT
• Wednesday, January 19 at 6 p.m. MT
• Sunday, March 20 at 4 p.m. MT
• Tuesday, April 19 at 10 a.m. MT 
• Wednesday, May 18 at 6 p.m. MT 

In-person sessions will also be held at the 2022 Junior Olympic Championships.

Attendance at all trainings will be recorded and posted to the individual’s member profile. 

More information on the course can be found below:

Title: It Takes a Team to Prevent Sexual Harassment

Description: Athletes, coaches, officials, referees and other sport organization professionals all play a crucial role in fostering a healthy sports climate. Designated Center trainers will provide essential tools that can be incorporated into sports programs looking to build a culture of dignity and respect. The course features attendee engagement scenarios and live polls to ensure attendees are interested and engaged throughout the training. Participants will walk away understanding that they are an integral part of the movement to end abuse in sports. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Define sexual harassment. 
2. Understand the pyramid of violence. 
3. Recognize the barriers and motivators for bystander intervention with an emphasis on sexual harassment. 
4. Identify at least two ways to prevent sexual harassment. 

For any questions, please email safesport@usafencing.org.