About orion: who we are and what we stand for

Orion: The hunter

The name “Orion Fencing” is a reference to the Greek myth of Orion the Hunter, now immortalized in one of the most recognizable constellations in the northern hemisphere.

Who are we?

Orion Fencing is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit fencing club located in Vancouver, Washington. We are a three sport club and welcome anyone with an interest in fencing. Beginners to experienced fencers, we have classes for you! Orion Fencing has one primary goal- to make fencing accessible to anyone who wants to try it. We provide all the gear students need to practice and compete, with no purchase necessary. All of our gear is washed and sanitized after every use.

If you want to fence, we want you here.

Orion offers group classes as well as private lessons with any of our coaches. We have classes for all three weapons used in modern fencing (Foil, Epee, and Sabre) and for all skill levels. Our youngest student is 3 years old and our eldest student is 93 years old. It is no exaggeration to say that we believe Fencing is for EVERYONE. We believe this so strongly that every student is invited to attend their first fencing class free of charge.

Accessibility

Fencing is a completely accessible sport for anyone who is willing to hold a blade. In addition to physical fitness, the strategy of the sport has led to it being called "physical chess." Fencing is one of the few sports that has been included at every modern Olympics and Paralympics. We have a wheelchair setup for para-athletes, we have had several blind fencers, and we have fencers across all ages and fitness ranges. Orion's head coach, Justin Meehan, is an internationally certified Wheelchair Fencing Referee and nationally recognized Wheelchair Fencing Coach.

We pride ourselves in maintaining a welcoming and accessible facility for any and all people. Our facility was designed specifically and deliberately with accessibility in mind. We host four separate ADA compliant restrooms, two of which are complete with accessible showers. We also sport an open floor plan for easy access to all aspects of the facility, including our weight room.

How can I help?

If you would like to help us in our mission to make fencing available to all members of our community, we would greatly appreciate your financial support. Donations go toward buying new up-to-date equipment, arranging tournaments and events, and providing scholarships to athletes who cannot afford tuition.