The Roaring Fork Fencers Club in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, has officially become a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization as of July 2025. This change aims to ease financial pressures on members and boost fundraising efforts to grow the sport of fencing in the Roaring Fork Valley.
The Shift to Nonprofit Status
Greg Domashovetz, the head coach and executive director, leads this exciting transition for the club. He points out that rising costs since 2020 have made it harder for families to join activities like fencing. By gaining nonprofit status, the club can now seek grants and tax-deductible donations to keep fees low and expand programs.
This move comes after years of steady growth. Domashovetz started the club in 2017 as a personal project to share his passion for fencing. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the group adapted quickly by offering online classes and partnering with other clubs. These steps helped build a strong base of dedicated fencers.
The nonprofit structure also spreads responsibility beyond one person. A new board of directors will guide decisions, making the club a true community asset. Members now feel more ownership, which strengthens bonds and encourages everyone to contribute.
Building a Thriving Fencing Community
Fencing at the Roaring Fork Fencers Club goes beyond just sports skills. It creates lasting friendships across generations and schools. Young fencers train alongside adults, forming connections that last a lifetime. Domashovetz shares stories of kids from different towns becoming close friends through shared practices.
The club welcomes all ages and skill levels, from beginners to those aiming for national competitions. This inclusive approach fits the valley’s diverse population. Families appreciate how fencing boosts fitness, focus, and confidence in a fun way.
In recent years, the club has seen a surge in interest. Local tournaments draw crowds, and word spreads through social media and community events. The emphasis on fun keeps participants coming back, turning casual learners into passionate athletes.
Key Achievements and Rankings
The Roaring Fork Fencers Club has made impressive strides in competitions. In the 2024-25 season, members claimed championship wins at the Western Slope Cup. The team also ranked in the top 25 of USA Fencing’s Region 4, a big accomplishment for a small valley club.
USA Fencing rates fencers from U (unrated) to A (top level) based on tournament results. Many club members have climbed these ranks quickly, thanks to dedicated coaching. The club hosts in-house practice bouts every quarter to prepare for bigger events.
Here is a quick look at recent highlights:
- Top 25 finish in USA Fencing Region 4 standings.
- Multiple wins in the Western Slope Cup 2024-25.
- Growth from a handful of members in 2017 to over 100 active fencers today.
- Successful online classes during the pandemic that retained 90 percent of participants.
These successes show the club’s potential as it enters this new phase.
Practice Schedule and How to Join
The club keeps a busy routine to fit busy valley lifestyles. Practices happen in two main spots: Glenwood Springs and Aspen. This setup makes it easy for families from Basalt to New Castle to get involved.
Below is the current weekly practice schedule:
| Day | Location | Time | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Glenwood Springs | 6:00 PM | Beginner and Intermediate Foil |
| Tuesday | Aspen | 5:30 PM | Advanced Epee and Sabre |
| Wednesday | Glenwood Springs | 6:00 PM | All Levels Group Practice |
| Thursday | Aspen | 5:30 PM | Youth and Family Sessions |
| Friday | Glenwood Springs | 6:00 PM | Open Bouting and Coaching |
All equipment is provided for beginners, and sessions end around 8:00 PM. Fencers should arrive 45 minutes early for warm-ups. Registration is simple through the club’s website, with options for private lessons too.
Looking Ahead for Fencing in the Valley
With nonprofit status secured, the Roaring Fork Fencers Club plans to host more local tournaments and outreach events. Domashovetz hopes to inspire kids in the Roaring Fork Valley to pick up a foil and discover the thrill of fencing. This could lead to more state-level successes and even national qualifiers.
The club ties into broader trends in youth sports, where activities like fencing promote mental health and physical fitness amid rising screen time. Recent events, such as the 2024 Paris Olympics, highlighted fencing stars and sparked interest nationwide. Local groups like this one help keep that momentum going in smaller communities.
As the club grows, it will continue to focus on affordability and inclusion. Domashovetz underestimated the deep community value when he started, but now it’s clear fencing fills a vital role here.
Share your thoughts on this exciting change for the Roaring Fork Fencers Club in the comments below. If you love fencing or know someone who might, spread the word and encourage them to join a practice session today.
