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All About Tournaments

Getting Started with Tournaments

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Just starting

All students in the Youth Learn to Fence and Fencing Fundamentals classes are encouraged to participate in LEO Fencing Club's Lion Cup Tournament, which is held a few times per year. The Lion Cup introduces fencers to the structure of a fencing tournament.

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Boston Area Youth Tournaments

Fencers who attend the Fencing Fundamentals Class or the Intermediate Fencing Class and who would like to try an external competition should participate in the Boston Area Youth Developmental Tournaments, held at local clubs throughout the year.

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Regional Youth Tournaments

Fencers who are ready for the next step - typically those in the Intermediate Fencing Class - are encouraged to participate in regional events such as RYCs (Regional Youth Circuit).

Age Categories

Fencing age categories are based on birth year. Youth categeries change on August 1.

For the 2025-26 season:

  • Y8: born 2017–2019

  • Y10: born 2015–2018

  • Y12: born 2013–2016

  • Y14: born 2011–2014

  • Cadet: born 2009–2012 (changes after Junior Olympics in January, to 2010-2013)

  • Junior: born 2006–2012 (changes after Junior Olympics in January, to 2007-2013)

More Advanced Tournaments

Competitive Open
Local Tournaments

National Tournaments

Fencers in the Advanced Class and Intermediate Class may qualify for national tournaments, including the North America Cups (NACs) and Summer Nationals. Tournaments include a range of age categories, from youth through Vet.

New England hosts a variety of tournaments for fencers at all levels for ages 13 and above. For example, check out the Pomme de Terre and the Jack Norton Hangover for fun competitions!

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