History

Browse the archives of NWFC milestones, moves, and much more

History at NWFC has always been an important part of the club’s atmosphere since the club first opened its doors in 1971. Through a few changes and many accomplishments by its athletes, NWFC has managed to become quite acknowledged.

Northwest Fencing Center’s history spans nearly five decades, becoming the premier training and competition facility it is today because of the dedication and faith of many. With such deep roots, we are proud to be part of the legacy of fencing in Oregon.

Read on to learn how our story began, how we’ve grown throughout the years, and what the future could hold.

Marcus Strugar

Marcus Strugar has a deep-seated passion for wellness, bodybuilding, and fencing, and enjoys wrestling. He began his fencing journey at the age of 8, inspiring his sister Steliana to take up the sport as well. Together, they share a love for sports and enjoy traveling, exploring new places and competitions.

Read More

Siddhi Nirgude

Siddhi Nirgude first started fencing about five years ago. She immediately fell in love. Siddhi’s favorite fencing memories include fencing teams at NACs, playing Wordscapes with her friends, and the Athena Camp. She is thankful to all coaches and the NWFC team for all the support and guidance that they have provided over the years.

Read More

Seamus McCarthy

Seamus McCarthy has been fencing since the sixth grade. One of his favorite memories from then was the youth summer camp that he took part in, where he was able to be the “dragon” during a Kingdoms match.

Read More

Emily Howard

Emily Howard has been fencing for the past 7 years. Over these 7 years, she says, “I have grown as both a person and a fencer. I absolutely love fencing and am so grateful for the friends I’ve made over the years. The guidance that I have received is invaluable and irreplaceable. I wouldn’t trade the memories I’ve made for anything.”

Read More

Mahala Lambert

Mahala Lambert started fencing 10 years ago when she was only 8. Her big brother was having so much fun so she decided to try it and quickly grew to love it too. Mahala fenced foil and competed in local, regional, and national competitions.

Read More

Kate Andrews

Kate Andrews took a trial lesson at NWFC as soon as she was old enough. She started with foil in 2016 and later switched to epée.

Read More

Grand Opening Celebration

,

Grand Opening Celebration at Northwest Fencing Center! We are celebrating 50 years of fencing in Portland! Join us for a celebration! The dedication and hard work of so many fencers, parents, and coaches has produced a stunning new facility.

College Fencers

,

College Fencers from the Northwest Fencing Family go off to accomplish amazing things. See more here about where some of our athletes have gone to a university or college to fence.

Wall of Champions

,

The Wall of Champions at Northwest Fencing Center is how we recognize and pay tribute to all our athletes’ accomplishments, past and present. Below you will find a running list of our fencers that have won National, Olympic, and other champion titles.

NWFC represents on the world stage

All of the hard work, conditioning, training and lessons with coaches, bouting with teammates and competing at home and across the United States has culminated in dreams coming true for six fencers from Northwest Fencing Center. Cadet (Will, Aryana and Megan), Junior (Gregory Mitberg), Veteran (Cristina Ford) and Wheelchair (Vikki Espinosa) fencers are either on their way or putting the finishing touches on their preparations for international tournaments in Europe.

Losing a great friend and a legend

Losing a great friend and a legend

,

Losing a great friend and a legend is never easy. The Northwest Fencing Center lost its founding father this week. I am sad to report that Leon Auriol passed away, but he left behind an incredible legacy for Pacific Northwest fencing.

Want to learn more about fencing?

Get Started
Contact Us