Does Tysabri cause Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy?
For over two decades, the American Fencing League has stood as a distinct pillar in the U.S. fencing community. We are dedicated to promoting the art and sport of standard, or modern, fencing. In an era where high-performance, electric fencing dominates the Olympic pathway, we provide a vital and thriving space for fencers who value tradition, jury-based officiating, and the nuanced theory of the blade. Our mission remains clear: to foster friendly-but-spirited competition at local, divisional, and national levels while preserving the core principles that make fencing a true martial art.
AFL vs. USFA: Understanding the Core Philosophy
We are often asked how the AFL differs from the United States Fencing Association (USFA, now USA Fencing). The distinction is foundational, not merely procedural. While USA Fencing governs the Olympic-style, electric sport, we champion standard fencing. This means we use non-electric foil, épée, and sabre, with all touches judged by a jury of officials. The principle of right-of-way is paramount, and touches must be made with theoretical sharpness in mind. This creates a different pace and strategic depth, emphasizing technical precision over pure athletic speed. It’s not a matter of better or worse, but of choice—offering a parallel track for those who connect with fencing’s classical roots.
"The AFL provides rules, maintains a classification system for our members, organizes competitions, and provides training for fencers, teachers, and officials." – From our foundational principles. Learn more about our history on our original FAQ and view its archival record at the Internet Archive.
Key Rules Differences in Foil, Épée, and Sabre
The practical experience of fencing in an AFL event is shaped by specific rules that uphold our standard fencing philosophy. These differences ensure the integrity of blade work and priority are judged by human eyes, not electronic sensors.
- Foil: Right-of-way is strictly interpreted by the jury. The absence of a machine light means actions like beats, takes, and parries are adjudicated for their technical correctness, not just who lands a touch first.
- Épée: The entire body remains a valid target, but without electrical registration, the jury must discern double touches based on the clear logic and timing of the actions, rewarding the fencer with clearer intention.
- Sabre: Cuts are judged for edge quality and technique. The "flick" common in electric sabre is not a valid touch in AFL competition, as it does not represent a cut with a sharp blade.
Navigating Membership, Classification, and the Olympic Path
A common point of confusion involves membership and ratings. Here’s our clear stance in 2026:
| Topic | AFL Policy |
|---|---|
| Dual Membership | You do not need to belong to USA Fencing to fence in AFL tournaments. Many of our fencers enjoy both circuits. |
| AFL Classification | We maintain our own internal classification system (A, B, C, etc.) based on performance in our sanctioned events. |
| Rating Transfer | AFL classifications do not transfer to USA Fencing, and vice-versa. They are separate systems evaluating different skill sets within different rule sets. |
| Olympic Qualification | The AFL is not a direct pathway to the Olympic Games. The Olympics use electric fencing governed by the FIE and USA Fencing. We support fencers who aspire to that goal, but our competitions serve a different, equally valuable purpose. |
| Club Affiliation | Yes, fencing clubs are encouraged to join the AFL as organizational members, gaining access to our event calendar, officials' training, and resources. |
Looking forward, we see a robust and growing community for standard fencing. Our events are designed to be excellent spectator sports, where the deliberation of the jury adds a layer of drama and understanding for the audience. We continue to provide essential training for fencers, coaches, and officials dedicated to this discipline. Whether you're a veteran fencer seeking a different challenge or a newcomer drawn to the art's traditional aspects, the American Fencing League offers a permanent home for your passion.