The 2025 November North American Cup (NAC) officially commenced on November 14 at the Fort Worth Convention Center, drawing hundreds of top-tier fencers from across the United States. This major tournament, hosted by USA Fencing, is one of the premier competitions on the national circuit and includes divisions ranging from elite Division I athletes to youth fencers in Cadet and Y14 categories. The event also features team competitions across the three weapons: foil, épée, and sabre.
This year’s November NAC represents a significant milestone in the domestic fencing season, with athletes competing for national ranking points, experience, and a chance to test themselves ahead of international selection events in 2026. The tournament spans four days, concluding on November 17, and includes thousands of matches taking place across multiple fencing strips set up throughout the Convention Center. Spectators are welcome to attend free of charge, creating a rare opportunity for the public to see high-level fencing up close.
For many fencers, especially those in the youth divisions, the NAC serves as a launching pad. Athletes in the Y14 (under 14) and Cadet (under 17) categories often use this competition to gain exposure, sharpen their skills, and make a case for advancement to Junior or even Senior levels in the near future. These events are often closely watched by coaches, scouts, and national staff looking to identify future talent for Team USA.
The significance of this event extends beyond medals. In the high-stakes Division I events, competitors are not only vying for podium finishes but also for valuable ranking points that can influence national standings, determine qualification for the U.S. national team, and impact future tournament seedings. For Olympic hopefuls and world championship contenders, the NAC is an essential checkpoint in their ongoing preparation and performance tracking.
Hosting the NAC in Fort Worth is a strategic decision by USA Fencing to rotate its major events across regions, offering greater geographic access and promoting the sport in diverse communities. Texas, with its growing fencing population and robust sports infrastructure, provides an ideal backdrop for such a competition. The Fort Worth Convention Center, centrally located and spacious, allows for a professional and accommodating setup for athletes, officials, and fans alike.
While the national focus remains on medal outcomes and rankings, local fencing clubs and athletes also benefit significantly from the visibility and experience this tournament provides. For clubs based in areas like Miami, Chicago, and San Jose, sending athletes to compete at the NAC provides critical feedback on where their training programs stand in comparison to others. Young fencers from these clubs are given the chance to test themselves against top competition, which can be both a motivational experience and a valuable learning opportunity.
In recent years, USA Fencing has worked to increase the accessibility and public engagement of the sport, and events like the NAC play a key role in this effort. With free admission and open competition areas, curious onlookers and prospective fencers are invited to witness the speed, precision, and athleticism of fencing firsthand. For many, this exposure is a first encounter with the sport and can be a gateway into participation.
The timing of the NAC also aligns with the broader competition calendar. Taking place in mid-November, the event serves as one of the last major domestic competitions before the holiday break and the start of the new year’s international selection season. Performances here can influence not only short-term rankings but also long-term opportunities for athletes seeking to represent the United States on the world stage.
As the tournament progresses, stories are beginning to emerge of strong performances, surprise upsets, and promising young talent. Coaches and national program directors are closely watching for fencers who not only win, but demonstrate strategic growth, composure under pressure, and consistency—traits necessary for success at the world level.
The 2025 November North American Cup stands as a testament to the depth and passion of the U.S. fencing community. It brings together aspiring young athletes and seasoned veterans, providing a dynamic space where ambition, talent, and hard work intersect. For Fort Worth, it is more than just a weekend of competition—it’s a celebration of sport and an affirmation of fencing’s growing role in the American athletic landscape.