In a significant milestone for the world of sports, Scott Rodgers, PLY, a three-time Paralympian, has made history by becoming the first active athlete and the first representative from the Para fencing community to chair the USA Fencing Board of Directors. This historic appointment reflects a growing commitment to inclusivity and representation within the sport.
Rodgers, who achieved notable success by winning a bronze medal in the 2004 Athens Paralympics, was officially elected to this prestigious position on October 24. As he takes the reins, he will spearhead efforts to guide USA Fencing and the Para fencing community as they prepare for the upcoming LA28 and Brisbane 2032 Games and beyond.
“It is an honour and a privilege to have been elected by my peers as the chairman of the board for USA Fencing. It is an amazing organisation that puts on some of the best fencing events in the world,” Rodgers expressed, emphasizing the significance of his new role.
Rodgers stands out not only for his impressive athletic career but also as a pioneer for athlete representation in the governing bodies of U.S. sports. He is the second Paralympian to chair a U.S. national sport governing body, following Joel Rosinbum, PLY, who served as chair for USA Triathlon. This evolution in leadership illustrates USA Fencing’s dedication to amplifying athlete voices and broadening the opportunities available in Para fencing across the nation.
Rodgers’s term as chairman will extend through the Board’s Annual Meeting in fall 2027, subject to the Board’s discretion. His wealth of experience in the sport began when he was introduced to wheelchair fencing in 1993, and he made his first Paralympic appearance in the Sydney 2000 Games. His bronze win in Athens marked a turning point, being the most recent Paralympic medal for USA Fencing, and earlier this year, he added a silver medal at the Para Fencing World Cup held in Sao Paulo in the men’s individual epee B.
In addition to his accomplishments as an athlete, Rodgers has enriched the sport in the U.S. by earning over 35 international medals and holding various national titles. His contributions extend beyond competition; he is also a nationally rated referee, armourer, and involved as a bout committee member, showcasing his multifaceted dedication to the sport. He actively participates on USA Fencing’s International Relations Committee, representing the organization globally.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Rodgers is a highly educated individual holding a PhD in electrical engineering from Georgia Tech. He is recognized as an expert in integrated optics and nanophotonics, reflecting his innovative contributions to the field, which include 11 patents and a 2007 accolade as a Top Scientist and Engineer from the Department of the Navy.
Phil Andrews, CEO of USA Fencing, highlighted the importance of Rodgers’s election, stating, “Scott’s election is a proud moment for our community. As our first active athlete — and first leader from our growing Para fencing community — to chair the Board, he brings athlete-centered insight, competitive excellence, and inclusive leadership.”
Andrews also expressed appreciation for Rodgers’s multifaceted experience as a referee, executive, and lifelong fencer, underlining the collaborative effort to serve athletes, coaches, parents, club owners, tournament officials, and the broader USA Fencing community.
Rodgers succeeds Damien Lehfeldt, who held the Chair position since September 2024, as he embarks on this new journey of leadership.
For those wanting to delve deeper into the world of Para fencing, more information can be found on the official Para fencing page.