The Australian Fencing Federation is a prestigious sports club located in Sydney, Australia. Established in 1949, the AFF has been governing the Olympic sport of fencing in the nation for over seven decades. It serves as the official authority for fencing in Australia and is responsible for organising competitions, training high-performance athletes, and developing coaches and referees.
Fencers of all skill levels are invited to register and compete under the AFF's guidance. The club regularly updates its members on new developments and initiatives through its website and email newsletters. Recent updates include the implementation of new development measures for coaches, the release of the competition schedule for 2024, and the announcement of new co-chairs following the departure of Paul Glasson as HPC Chair.
The AFF is committed to promoting the sport of fencing across the country. The club provides a comprehensive directory on its website, allowing individuals to easily find a fencing club in their respective states. Whether you reside in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, or Western Australia, you can locate a club near you to enhance your fencing skills.
In addition to catering to competitive fencers, the AFF also supports school fencing programmes. The club believes that everyone can contribute to the success of the Australian Fencing Team, whether they are on the team or supporting from the sidelines. As such, the AFF operates an online shop where official training and supporter gear can be purchased, including seasonal and tour merchandise.
The Australian Fencing Federation operates under a robust governance structure and is committed to integrity and safety in the sport. The club has a comprehensive set of policies in place to maintain a fair and inclusive environment for all participants. It also has a strong athletes' commission and regularly engages with its life members to ensure the well-being of its members.
By affiliating with a member state, fencers automatically become members of the Australian Fencing Federation and gain eligibility to compete in national events. The AFF also provides information and resources on residency requirements and exceptions. It organises various national competitions, including an open and veteran fencing circuit, national schools championships, and age-specific championship events in foil, epee, and sabre for both men and women.
For fencers aspiring to reach the highest level in the sport, the AFF offers a High Performance Programme that provides training and support to talented athletes. Fencers in the Under 13 and Under 15 age categories can also join the Talented Fencer Programme, where they have the opportunity to train alongside the Australian Fencing Team.
The AFF encourages fencers to explore international training and competition opportunities. The club provides information on options for Australian fencers to fence overseas, allowing them to broaden their skills and gain exposure to different fencing styles.
The Australian Fencing Federation takes pride in recognising and celebrating the achievements of its fencers. The club maintains national rankings for various age categories and regularly updates its rankings tables based on national and international results. Fencers can view the rankings on the AFF's website.
Overall, the Australian Fencing Federation is a vibrant and inclusive sports club that is dedicated to the development and promotion of fencing in Australia. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, the AFF strives to foster a strong fencing community and support athletes in reaching their full potential in the sport.