INTRODUCING BUILT TO FENCE: A NEW MULTI-WEEK PROGRAM FOR GIRLS!

Fast and Female is thrilled to announce Built to Fence, an exciting new multi-week program designed to introduce girls to the sport of fencing while empowering them through sport and education. This pilot program is a collaboration between Fast and Female (F&F) and Epic Fencing Club (EFC), made possible through the incredible generosity from a kind and supportive family who is actively involved at Epic Fencing Club.

Taking place in Calgary, Alberta, from March to May 2025, Built to Fence will provide girls aged 6 to 13 with an inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and engaging introduction to fencing. Through this program, we aim to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to thrive in sport and beyond.

A Program Designed for Girls

At Fast and Female, we know that participation in sport has the power to build confidence, leadership, and resilience in girls. However, barriers such as cost, access, and a lack of inclusive spaces often prevent them from getting involved. Built to Fence is designed to break down these barriers by offering a completely free, supportive, and welcoming environment where girls can develop new skills, meet friends, and grow through sport.

Fencing is a unique sport that encourages focus, strategic thinking, and discipline—all while being incredibly fun and engaging. With the guidance of experienced coaches from Epic Fencing Club, participants will learn the fundamentals of fencing while also engaging in Fast and Female’s curriculum, which focuses on confidence, safe sport, and leadership.

Each session will include a fencing lesson, and Fast and Female curriculum focused on healthy, positive body image for girls in sport. We are so grateful for the support of Vanessa Coulbeck, Fast and Female Role Model and researcher at the University of Toronto, for the development of the curriculum.

Program Details

• Dates: Saturdays, March 15 – April 26, with a special Donut Tournament on May 3
  (No session on April 19; participants will have the opportunity to watch a fencing tournament at EFC that day.)
• Age Groups & Schedule:
  • Ages 6-9 (11:30 AM – 1:00 PM) – 90-minute sessions, including 30 minutes of intro, curriculum, and snacks, followed by 60 minutes of fencing.
  • Ages 10-13 (11:30 AM – 1:30 PM) – 105-minute sessions, including 30 minutes of intro, curriculum, and snacks, followed by 90 minutes of fencing.
• Number of Participants: 20 per age group (40 total)
• Location: Epic Fencing, 3309 9 St. SE, Calgary, AB
• Cost: FREE (thanks to the generous support of the kind family involved at Epic Fencing)

Why Fencing?

Fencing is a sport that fosters quick thinking, problem-solving, and perseverance. It also provides an opportunity for girls to engage in a unique, non-traditional sport where they can build both physical and mental strength. By combining fencing instruction with Fast and Female’s empowerment curriculum, Built to Fence will give girls the opportunity to develop confidence, resilience, and teamwork in a safe and supportive space.

A Heartfelt Thank You to OUR DONOR

This program would not be possible without the incredible generosity of a family who is actively involved at Epic Fencing Club. Their support has ensured that Built to Fence remains free and accessible to all participants. Their belief in the power of sport to empower and uplift girls is helping to create a lasting impact on the next generation of female athletes and leaders.

Through their support, each participant—regardless of financial background—will have the opportunity to experience the benefits of sport, community, and personal growth. Their generosity allows us to continue our mission of breaking down barriers and ensuring that every girl has the chance to thrive in sport and life.

Join Us on This Exciting Journey

We are so excited to bring this new program to Calgary and to introduce a new generation of girls to the world of fencing. Spots are limited, so we encourage families to register early and be part of this transformative experience.

To register for Built to Fence, visit https://ff-builttofence-spring25.eventbrite.ca

Together, let’s empower girls through sport—one lunge, parry, and riposte at a time!