The Swordsport Podcast

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, Don Anthony sits down with Albert Bagdány, a member of the Ohio State fencing team, to talk about his path into the sport and what it’s been like competing at the collegiate level. Albert shares his background, how he got started in fencing, and the transition into a program like Ohio State. They talk through the day-to-day reality of being a student-athlete, the challenges of training and competing at a high level, and what he’s learned along the way. The conversation also touches on team culture, how he fits into the group, and what he’s focused on as the season moves forward. It’s a straightforward, honest look at the experience of a Buckeye fencer working to grow and compete in one of the top programs in the country.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, Don Anthony sits down with Natalia Botello, who’s back on the show, this time joined by Ohio State assistant coach and former Buckeye fencer Julieta Toledo. The conversation is part reflection, part celebration, and part real talk about what it takes to get to the top of the sport. Natalia talks about her recent NCAA National Championship in women’s sabre—what that moment was actually like, what led up to it, and what it means to be part of a small group of Buckeyes to win an individual title. She also shares how competing for Mexico has shaped her approach to fencing and competition. Julieta adds her perspective as someone who’s been there before. As an Olympian for Mexico and now a coach, she talks about what it’s like to support athletes like Natalia, and how her own experience influences the way she connects with the team. It’s a really grounded conversation about fencing, growth, and the relationship between athlete and coach—especially when they’ve walked a similar path.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with Solin Li, a senior foil fencer for the Ohio State Buckeyes from Beijing, China. One of the most accomplished members of the Buckeye foil squad, Solin reflects on a collegiate career filled with championship performances, academic excellence, and steady growth on the international stage of NCAA fencing. Don and Solin discuss his path from Beijing to Columbus and how he adapted to the demands of fencing in one of the nation’s top collegiate programs. They also revisit key highlights of his Ohio State career, including becoming the 2023 CCFC individual champion, earning First Team All-CCFC honors twice, and achieving Honorable Mention All-American status after finishing 11th at the NCAA Championships in his first appearance at the national tournament

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with Carter Berrio, a freshman sabre fencer for the Ohio State Buckeyes from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Carter has quickly made an impact in his first collegiate season, emerging as one of the rising talents on the Buckeye sabre squad. Don and Carter talk about his journey to Ohio State, the transition from junior and international fencing to the NCAA level, and what it takes to compete in one of the most demanding collegiate fencing programs in the country. The conversation also highlights Carter’s impressive early success, including capturing the 2026 Central Collegiate Fencing Conference (CCFC) individual championship in men’s sabre, a major milestone in his freshman campaign

In this special joint episode of the Swordsport Podcast, Don Anthony sits down with Matthew Bülau and Avin Rai, two veteran Buckeyes whose fencing journeys began on opposite sides of the world and came together at Ohio State. Matthew Bülau, an international standout from Germany, reflects on his path from being ranked No. 1 in his age group for a decade to earning a U20 European Championships bronze medal, winning the OSU Open, and becoming a two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree and Ohio State Scholar-Athlete. Avin Rai, a senior sabre fencer from Massachusetts, shares his rise from an after-school fencing program to becoming a 2025 NCAA qualifier, First Team All-CCFC selection, and a key contributor to multiple Buckeye team and sabre squad championships.

In this episode, Don Anthony sits down with Matthew Bülau, a standout epee fencer from Germany who has become a reliable force for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Matthew shares his journey from the fencing halls of HSB Heidenheimer Sportbund 1846 e.V., where he spent a decade ranked No. 1 in his age group in Germany, to carving out a successful collegiate career in the United States. Don and Matthew dive into his development as an athlete, including his breakout junior success as a U20 European Championships bronze medalist, his OSU Open title, and the strong dual records that have defined his Ohio State seasons. They revisit highlights such as his dominant 14–1 freshman dual record, his undefeated performance at the CCFC Championships, and his steady impact during invitationals and conference events.

In this episode, Don Anthony welcomes Avin Rai, a senior sabre fencer from Massachusetts and one of the pillars of the Ohio State men’s sabre squad. Avin reflects on his path from discovering fencing in a second-grade after-school program to becoming a 2025 NCAA qualifier, First Team All-CCFC honoree, and a consistent top performer at conference and regional championships. Don and Avin dive into the highlights of his Buckeye career — including Top 8 finishes at the CCFC Championships in all three seasons, back-to-back strong showings at the NCAA Regionals, and key contributions toward multiple team and sabre squad titles. Avin shares insights into the mindset behind his 2024–25 season, where he finished 19th at the NCAA Championships, placed 7th at Regionals, and posted an impressive 35–18 dual record.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony welcomes Samuel Rightler, a rising star in men’s sabre for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Fresh off a silver medal finish in Division I Men’s Sabre at the 2024 U.S. Fencing National Championships in Milwaukee — where he faced Olympic medalist Eli Dershwitz in the final — Samuel reflects on his journey from Plain City, Ohio, to becoming one of the top collegiate and national sabre fencers in the country. Don and Samuel dive into the training, mindset, and preparation that led to his breakout performance, as well as his success during his first two seasons at Ohio State — including top finishes at the NCAA Regionals, CCFC Championships, and OSU Open. They also discuss the academic side of being a Buckeye athlete, with Samuel majoring in Construction Systems Management and earning recognition as an Academic All-Big Ten honoree, USFCA Scholar of Distinction, and two-time Ohio State Scholar-Athlete. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about discipline, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence — both on and off the strip — with one of collegiate fencing’s brightest young competitors.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with Natalia Botello, an elite sabre fencer from Mexico and a standout member of the Ohio State fencing team. A multiple-time World Cup medalist and Pan American Games champion, Natalia has represented Mexico on the international stage with remarkable success — and now brings her passion and experience to the collegiate circuit with the Buckeyes. Don and Natalia talk about her journey from international competition to NCAA fencing, the differences between the global and collegiate scenes, and how her experiences have shaped her as both an athlete and a person. They also reflect on her goals for the upcoming season, her inspirations within the sport, and what it means to represent her country and Ohio State with pride. Please tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of fencing’s brightest young talents, who continues to make her mark on both the international and collegiate stages.

 In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony welcomes Ohio State foil standout Raiyan Moradi-Bidhendi. Hailing from San Diego, California, Raiyan has had a breakout season for the Buckeyes, earning a coveted spot at the 2025 NCAA Fencing Championships. Don and Raiyan talk about her journey to collegiate fencing, her growth throughout the season, and the mindset it takes to compete at the national level. They also reflect on what it means to represent Ohio State on the strip, the support of her teammates and coaches, and her goals beyond the NCAA tournament. Whether you're a fencing enthusiast or simply love stories of perseverance and focus, this episode offers insight into the making of a top-tier athlete and student. Tune in to hear how Raiyan is preparing for the biggest stage of college fencing—and what drives her pursuit of excellence.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with Ohio State senior foil fencer Ilya Ayupov. Ilya has significantly contributed to the Buckeyes' fencing team, earning accolades such as Honorable Mention All-Region in 2024 and being a two-time Ohio State Scholar-Athlete and Academic All-Big Ten honoree.  The conversation delves into Ilya's journey in fencing, his experiences competing at the collegiate level, and his aspirations for the future as he prepares for the 2025 NCAA Fencing Championships.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with Claire Teresa Galavotti, a senior foil fencer for the Ohio State Buckeyes hailing from Oak Park, Illinois. Claire has been a pivotal member of the OSU fencing team, earning accolades such as Second Team All-CCFC and Honorable Mention All-Midwest Region in 2023, and Honorable Mention All-CCFC in 2024. She has also been recognized as a three-time Ohio State Scholar-Athlete and USFCA Scholar of Distinction. Beyond her athletic achievements, Claire has excelled academically, earning B1G Distinguished Scholar honors in 2023 and participating in the Bucks Go Pro internship program, where she worked at Nationwide Children's Hospital. In their conversation, Claire reflects on her journey in fencing, from her beginnings at Redstar Fencing Club to her collegiate career at Ohio State. She shares insights into balancing the demands of being a student-athlete, her experiences competing at high-level tournaments, and her aspirations for the future. Additionally, Claire discusses her involvement in mental health advocacy, including her contributions to Erika’s Lighthouse blog and managing the @sicperikaslighthouse Instagram account.Join us for an inspiring discussion that delves into the dedication, resilience, and passion that define Claire's fencing career and personal endeavors.

Title: Fencing Without Borders: A Conversation with Isaac Ariza Description:In this episode of the SwordSport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with Buckeye foil fencer Isaac Ariza, a Miami native who describes his journey through the competitive fencing scene in South Florida to making his mark at Ohio State, Isaac dives into the team culture at OSU, his goals for the season, and how his diverse fencing experiences shape his approach on the strip. Tune in for a fascinating conversation on dual representation in fencing, the mental and physical demands of the sport, and what it takes to succeed at the highest levels. Whether you're an aspiring fencer or a fan of the international game, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss! 🤺🌍🇵🇪 #SwordSport #Fencing #GoBuckeyes #TeamPeru

In this episode of the SwordSport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with one of the brightest stars in collegiate and international fencing—Dasha Myroniuk. A standout foil fencer for Ohio State, Dasha has already amassed an impressive list of achievements, including a gold medal at the U23 European Championships, a silver at the Senior European Championships, and multiple NCAA All-American honors. Dasha shares insights into her journey, from her early fencing days to competing on some of the biggest stages in the sport. She reflects on her growth as an athlete, balancing academic excellence with elite competition, and what drives her to continually push the limits of her performance. As they dive into the culture of OSU fencing, Dasha offers her perspective on team camaraderie, leadership, and the mental resilience required to excel in both collegiate and international competition. With a track record of success and a hunger for more, she provides a glimpse into what’s next for her in the sport. Tune in to hear an inspiring conversation with one of the most accomplished young fencers in the game. Whether you're an athlete, a fencing fan, or someone looking for motivation, this episode is a must-listen! 🤺🔥 #SwordSport #Fencing #GoBuckeyes

In this episode of the SwordSport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with two distinguished voices from the OSU fencing team—Graduate student Max Rodney and returning senior Nolan Williams. Max kicks off the episode recounting his personal journey and experiences as he fenced for OSU. Later on, Nolan joins the conversation, and together they dive into the unique culture of the OSU fencing program. In a thoughtful discussion that coincides with Black History Month, Max and Nolan reflect on what this important time means to them as African American fencers. They explore how their shared experiences, and the spirit of the OSU community have shaped both their athletic and personal journeys.

In this episode of the SwordSport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with senior epee fencers Miles Weiss and Gabriel Feinberg from Ohio State University. As they gear up for another thrilling season filled with conference championships and the NCAA tournament, Miles and Gabriel reflect on their memorable careers at OSU and the pivotal moments that have shaped their journey. The duo shares their unique story of how they first met on the youth fencing circuit—a meeting that would eventually lead them to become teammates and lifelong friends at OSU. With candid insights into the highs and lows of collegiate fencing, they discuss the evolution of their skills, the camaraderie that has fueled their success, and the lessons learned along the way . Tune in to hear an authentic conversation about dedication, friendship, and the passion for epee that continues to drive these two remarkable athletes as they prepare for the challenges ahead. Whether you're a seasoned fencer or a newcomer to the sport, this episode offers valuable perspectives on teamwork, resilience, and pursuing excellence in fencing.

In this special tribute episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony continues to celebrate the life and legacy of American fencing legend Peter Westbrook, speaking with one of his closest friends and longtime teammates, Phil Reilly. Phil’s storied history with Peter began when they fenced together at Essex Catholic High School, continued as collegiate competitors—Phil at St. John’s and Peter at NYU—and culminated in their shared experience on the 1984 U.S. Olympic Team in Los Angeles. Join Don and Phil as they reflect on Peter’s boundless talent, his competitive spirit, and the memorable moments that defined both their friendship and the sport of fencing. Through Phil’s recollections, listeners gain a unique perspective on Peter’s profound impact—both on and off the strip—and the enduring bond that developed over years of practice, competition, and a shared passion for sabre fencing. Don’t miss this intimate conversation paying homage to a remarkable athlete whose influence transcends the fencing world.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony commemorates the life and legacy of the late American fencing legend Peter Westbrook, who passed away on November 29, 2024. Joining Don is Mik Benedek—longtime friend, former teammate, and fellow NYU fencing standout—who offers a deeply personal tribute to the iconic athlete who transformed the face of sabre fencing in the United States. Mik reflects on his shared history with Peter, recalling their days training together as young fencers at New York University, where Mik earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Television. A two-time NCAA All-American, Eastern Collegiate Individual Sabre Champion, and part of NYU’s 1976 NCAA Team Fencing Championship squad, Mik also holds a Junior National Individual Sabre Fencing title. Drawing on these achievements and memories, he recounts the remarkable spirit, sportsmanship, and dedication that defined Peter’s extraordinary journey. Tune in for an intimate conversation celebrating Peter Westbrook’s enduring influence on the sport of fencing, his unwavering commitment to excellence, and the countless lives he touched along the way. This episode is a reminder of the vibrant community and bonds forged through passion, perseverance, and a shared love of the blade.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony pays tribute to the extraordinary life and legacy of American fencing icon Peter Westbrook, who sadly passed away on November 29, 2024. Joining Don are two longtime friends and fellow teammates, Robert “Bob” Cottingham and Steve Mormando, who share personal stories and insights about Peter’s profound impact on the sport.Together, they celebrate Peter’s remarkable achievements—notably his bronze medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics—and his enduring commitment to elevating sabre fencing in the United States. Beyond his competitive triumphs, Peter’s greatest legacy may be his devotion to championing diversity and opportunity in fencing through his groundbreaking Peter Westbrook Foundation. Listen in as Bob and Steve recount treasured memories, reflect on Peter’s unparalleled spirit, and discuss how his influence will continue shaping American fencing for future generations.Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation dedicated to a true legend of the sport. Peter Westbrook’s story is one of resilience, passion, and an unwavering desire to uplift others—values that will forever resonate within the fencing community.

In this episode of the SwordSport Podcast, host Don Anthony reconnects with Nolan Williams, a fifth-year senior and standout fencer for Ohio State University. As a returning guest, Nolan dives deeper into his experiences as he reflects on his final collegiate fencing season.Together, Don and Nolan explore a variety of engaging topics, including:A look back at Nolan's fencing journey, from his early days training at NJ Fencing Alliance to his transformative years at OSU.Insights into the mental challenges of collegiate fencing and how Nolan has developed resilience and focus to thrive under pressure.Highlights from this season’s early competitions, including memorable matchups against Harvard and Northwestern, and how they’ve shaped the Buckeyes’ trajectory.A candid discussion on the importance of teamwork, camaraderie, and overcoming the distractions that can derail even the most talented teams.A preview of the key competitions ahead, including the Saint John's and Philadelphia duals, and the high-stakes regional qualifiers.Nolan also shares his thoughts on the evolving landscape of college fencing, the rising parity among teams, and the mental discipline required to succeed in this uniquely individual and team-oriented sport. With a mix of humor, wisdom, and passion, he reflects on his growth as both an athlete and a leader

In the season 3 premiere of the SwordSport Podcast, host Don Anthony kicks off the new season with a comprehensive look back at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. From standout performances to memorable moments, Don reflects on how the sport of fencing continues to evolve on the grandest stage.Looking ahead, Don sets his sights on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, discussing the potential for fencing to shine on home soil and the opportunities for growth and visibility as the sport continues to captivate audiences worldwide.Additionally, Don provides exclusive insight into upcoming initiatives and activities of the international governing body of fencing, the FIE. From fostering global participation to advancing the sport's infrastructure, this episode offers an insider's perspective on the future of fencing at the international level.Don’t miss this engaging start to Season 3, filled with reflections, forward-thinking analysis, and the passion for fencing that makes this podcast a must-listen for fans and athletes alike.

In the latest episode of the SwordSport Podcast, host Don Anthony sits down with Kelly Feng and Vincent Haney, two standout recent graduates of the Ohio State Fencing program. As they reflect on their collegiate fencing careers, Kelly and Vincent share their unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs both on and off the strip.Listen in as they discuss how their time at Ohio State has shaped them as athletes and individuals, their valuable lessons learned through fencing, and their plans for the future. Whether you're a fencing enthusiast or simply interested in stories of personal growth and achievement, this episode offers a heartfelt and insightful look into the lives of two accomplished fencers who have left a lasting mark on the OSU program.Please tune in to hear Kelly and Vincent's journey, the impact of their fencing careers, and what's next as they embark on new chapters beyond the sport. 🤺🎓

In this special episode of the SwordSport Podcast, host Don Anthony brings together an extraordinary panel of fencers who have showcased their talents on the world stage. Joining the conversation are OSU assistant coach and four-time Olympian Dmitri Lapkes, former OSU fencer Julieta Toledo who represented Mexico in the 2016 Rio Games, and current OSU fencer Luca Fioretto, seasoned in international competitions.The panelists share their unique experiences from the Olympic and international fencing arenas. Dmitri Lapkes offers insights from his extensive Olympic journey, while Julieta Toledo reflects on her memorable participation in the Rio Games. Luca Fioretto brings a fresh perspective from his recent international competitions.As they delve into their individual stories, the panelists also discuss the current state of the sport and what lies ahead as we approach the 2024 Paris Games. They explore the evolving dynamics of fencing, the challenges athletes face, and the exciting future opportunities.Tune in to this engaging episode to hear firsthand accounts from some of the most accomplished fencers in the world. Prepare for an inspiring discussion filled with Olympic memories, international experiences, and expert insights on the path to Paris 2024. 🤺🌍🇫🇷

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony welcomes two distinguished guests to the show. Luca Fioretto, who recently achieved a stellar T-3rd place finish at the NCAA Championships in Men's Sabre, joins the conversation to share his experiences and insights from the past OSU fencing season. Additionally, we are thrilled to have Nolan Williams, our first return guest, back on the podcast. Together, Don, Luca, and Nolan take a deep dive into the highs and lows of the recent OSU fencing season. They reflect on the team's performance, the challenges they faced, and the unforgettable moments that defined their journey. Luca shares his personal experiences and the dedication that propelled him to his impressive finish at the NCAA Championships.As the conversation progresses, the trio shifts their focus to the future, discussing the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. Tune in for a dynamic conversation filled with inspiration, expertise, and a shared passion for the sport of fencing. 🤺🇫🇷✨

🎙️ In the episode of the Swordsport Podcast Don Anthony sits down with Dawn Anderson-Butcher, the co-executive director of LifeSports at The Ohio State University, for a thought-provoking conversation on the role of youth sports in today's society and its intersection with the sport of fencing.Dawn brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, boasting an impressive background as a professor at the College of Social Work and affiliate faculty member in Human Sciences at OSU. Dawn is a leading authority in sport-based positive youth development, afterschool programming, and school mental health practice.As they delve into the discussion, Don and Dawn explore the profound impact that youth sports can have on young athletes, not just in terms of physical skills development, but also in fostering essential life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and leadership. Drawing from her own experiences as a college athlete and coach, Dawn sheds light on the transformative power of sports in shaping the character and values of today's youth.With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, Dawn and Don examine how the principles of positive youth development can be applied within the realm of fencing, a sport renowned for its discipline and mental fortitude. From grassroots initiatives to high-performance training programs, they discuss strategies for creating an environment where every young athlete has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.🤺🌟

This week Don sits down with Mika Guillen, a remarkable individual whose journey into the world of fencing took an unconventional route. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mika found herself embarking on a thrilling adventure that would change her life forever.Mika shares her unique story of how she became friends with an OSU fencer who recommended she join the team when they were looking for a foilist Without prior experience in the sport, Mika's leap of faith led her to a world of elite athletes and Olympians, where she found herself on a journey of self-discovery and growth.From the initial skepticism to overcoming challenges and earning the respect of her teammates, Mika's resilience shines through as she reflects on her transformative four-year journey. With the support of her teammates and mentors like Don Anthony, and Elvis Gregory Gil. Mika navigated the intricacies of fencing, mastering the fundamentals from scratch and eventually finding her stride on the strip.As Mika prepares to graduate and move on to new horizons, she reflects on the profound impact fencing has had on her life. With a newfound passion and dedication, she shares insights on her plans for her future in fencing and in her career at Google.Join us as we celebrate Mika's inspiring journey, filled with perseverance, camaraderie, and the unwavering determination to embrace the unexpected twists and turns that life has to offer. Don't miss out on this captivating conversation that reminds us all of the power of seizing opportunities and forging our own paths, no matter where they may lead. Tune in now! 🤺✨

Join Don Anthony in an enlightening episode of the Swordsport Podcast as he delves into the intricate world of collegiate foil fencing with Miranda Freedman, a junior foil fencer for the Buckeyes.Through heartfelt anecdotes and candid reflections, Miranda reveals the profound bond she shares with her teammates, offering insights into the unique personalities and dynamics within the Buckeye fencing community. From heartwarming tales of late-night study sessions to lighthearted banter on competition trips, Miranda paints a vivid picture of camaraderie and support among the squad.In a poignant conclusion, Miranda imparts invaluable advice to aspiring fencers, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a multifaceted identity beyond the confines of the sport. Her message resonates with authenticity and wisdom, offering a profound reminder of the power of self-discovery and personal growth.Don Anthony's engaging interview style coupled with Miranda Freedman's candid insights makes this episode a must-listen for fencing enthusiasts and athletes alike. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the athletes that define collegiate fencing at Ohio State University.

Join Don Anthony in an insightful episode of the Swordport Podcast as he delves into the intricate dynamics and dedication of the foil squad, featuring a candid conversation with Edriss Ndiaye, senior foil fencer from The Ohio State University and 2024 Central Collegiate Fencing Conference champion in Foil.In this episode, Don and Edriss explore the essence of team cohesion and performance excellence within the foil squad. Edriss shares invaluable insights into the role of leadership, highlighting the pivotal contribution of their coach, Elvis Gregory Gil, in fostering unity and communication among team members. Through open dialogue and mutual respect, the foil squad maintains a transparent training environment, where every fencer's input is valued and acknowledged.Discover how the foil squad's collective mindset and unwavering commitment to each other create a foundation for success, both on and off the strip. Edriss reflects on his journey in the sport, expressing gratitude for the lessons learned and the personal growth attained through fencing.As the conversation unfolds, Edriss candidly discusses his decision regarding the future of his fencing career, emphasizing the importance of being present in the moment. Despite uncertainties, his dedication to fostering inclusivity and representation in fencing remains unwavering.Tune in to gain profound insights into the ethos of the foil squad and the transformative power of sport in shaping character and community. Don Anthony's engaging interview style coupled with Edriss Ndiaye's authenticity makes this episode a must-listen for fencing enthusiasts and beyond.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony engages in a conversation with Nolan Williams, a sabre fencer from The Ohio State University. Nolan spoke about his journey through his fencing origins to how he ended up a Buckeye. Nolan also describes the unique challenges and triumphs of being a student-athlete, offering a compelling glimpse into the world of fencing at the collegiate level.

In this episode of the Swordsport Podcast, we bring you a panel discussion that delves into the world of media and its impact on the sport of fencing. Hosted by Don Anthony, our panel comprises seasoned media professionals with a shared passion for fencing and a wealth of experience in various mediums such as video production, web design, journalism, photography, and podcast production.

Join us for an enlightening episode of the Swordsport Podcast as Don Anthony sits down with the Sam Cheris. Sam takes us on a journey through his rich history in the sport, from his early days as a high school and college fencer in New York to his role in establishing the first varsity fencing program at Stanford University.Sam's contributions to fencing extend far beyond the fencing strip. He has worn numerous hats in the fencing community, including serving as treasurer for USA Fencing. Interestingly, he worked alongside Don when Don held the position of President of USA Fencing.Tune in as Sam Cheris shares his unique perspective on the evolution of fencing and his significant impact on the sport. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the fascinating history and development of fencing in the United States. Don't miss the captivating conversation between two influential figures in the world of fencing.

In the debut episode of the newly re-launched Swordsport Podcast, we delve deep into the thrilling realm of collegiate fencing. Join us as Don Anthony, the Head Fencing Coach at The Ohio State University, engages in a captivating conversation with Paul Veltrup, a junior Epee fencer who proudly clinched the 2022 NCAA silver medal. Originating from Germany, Paul's path to OSU was paved with the accolades of a distinguished junior career.Adding to the excitement, Paul's parents, visiting The Ohio State University for the first time, share their unique perspective on supporting their son's NCAA fencing journey all the way from Germany. Discover the challenges and joys of following an international athlete's rise in this engaging family discussion.But that's not all! In this inaugural episode, we also have the privilege of sitting down with Julieta Toledo, a former OSU Fencing Team captain and an Olympic Sabre fencer representing Mexico. Julieta recently embarked on a new adventure in her fencing career, having been appointed as the Director of Operations for the Ohio State University Fencing team. As she takes on this coaching role, she's simultaneously pursuing her dreams of representing Mexico at the Paris Olympic Games in 2024. Join us as we explore Julieta's remarkable journey, where she balances coaching responsibilities with her ongoing quest for Olympic glory in her native Mexico.

On a recent trip to Italy, Don Anthony sat down with former Olympic and World Sabre champion Aldo Montano. Aldo spoke about what it was like to be the third generation Olympic fencer from his family and how he is working currently to represent athletes in the sport of fencing

Don speaks with Olga Kharlan at the Junior World Championships about her past success as a four-time Junior World Champion. Don and Olga also discuss a variety of topics including athlete sponsorship, her new role with the FIE and her recent success at the last grand prix event.

Don interviews Gerek from the 2018 Men'sFoil Grand Prix event fro Anaheim, California.

In the second part of his interview, Don Anthony asks Alexander Massialas about his popularity in China, the work that led Alexander to winning two World Cups, and how he is preparing for the Grand Prix even that is happening in Anaheim March 16 -18.

In the first of a two-part series. Don Anthony speaks with World Champion and Olympic silver medalist Alexander Massialas about his start in fencing and his success at both the collegiate level with Stanford University and with the US National Fencing Team. Alexander talked at length about the dynamic of the men's Foil national team which has had an incredible run in their last four team events.

Two-time Olympic Fencer Greg Massialas discusses his current role in coaching the US National team Foil Fencers including his son Alexander, who is currently the #2 ranked foil fencer in the world.

We are celebrating National Women in Sports Day, February 7, 2018. The host of The Swordsport Podcast Don Anthony interviews Olympic medalists Kelley and Courtney Hurley on their origins in the sport of fencing to where they are now as internationally ranked Epee fencers representing the United States. Kelley and Courtney Hurley have also created a blog titled @HurleyGurrls where they promote the sport of fencing and give their audience a glimpse into the lives of these accomplished fencers.

Don Anthony speaks with fellow FIE Executive Committee member Novak Perovic about recent trips they took to burgeoning fencing nations Angola and Pakistan. Plus, Novak speaks on the state of Fencing across the continent of Africa

Don speaks with Karim Bashir, sports marketer, and commentator for the FIE. The two discuss the upcoming Women's Sabre World Cup in Baltimore, plus strategies on how to grow the sport of fencing internationally.

In the debut episode of The Swordsport Podcast, host Don Anthony traveled to New York City to sit down with his former US National teammate, 6 time Olympian Peter Westbrook. Don and Peter have been good friends for over forty years and in the early nineties, Don was a co-founder of the Peter Westbrook Foundation with Peter. The foundation introduced the sport of Fencing to children in the inner city and has produced multiple Olympians over the last two decades. The two sat down to discuss the origins of the Foundation and where they see USA Fencing going in the future.