About

Established in 1979 by head coach Gary Copeland, Northern Colorado Fencers (NCF) has solidified its place as one of Colorado’s top fencing clubs.

Northern Colorado Fencers' purpose is to leverage our 30 years of experience so that new students and competitive fencers may push the limits of their athletic ability.

NCF aims to:

  • train and support competitive fencers of all ages by providing superior instruction and coaching

  • prioritize development of individual strengths through a boutique gym experience

  • develop athletes’ physical and mental stamina so they may be successful at local, national, and international competitions

Northern Colorado Fencers encourages a culture of personal excellence, continual improvement, and mutual support. NCF is a member of the Colorado Division of USA Fencing.


Coaching Staff

Gary Copeland, Head Coach

Founder & Head Coach

Gary Copeland founded Northern Colorado Fencers in 1979 with a clear vision: to build a program where athletes of all ages could develop technical excellence, strategic thinking, and personal integrity through the sport of fencing. Over the decades, he has guided generations of fencers to success at the highest levels of national and international competition—always with an emphasis on grounded, intelligent training.

Under his leadership, NCF has produced numerous national champions, medalists, and world team members the Cadet, Junior, Senior and Veteran levels. Many of Gary’s students have earned spots on the U.S. Pan American team and continued on to successful NCAA, national, and Olympic careers.

Named Fencing Coach of the Year by the U.S. Olympic Committee in 1999, Gary has coached the U.S. National Team more than 20 times. He also served as Assistant Director of the U.S. Fencing Coaches College at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs from 1994 to 2012, helping shape the development of coaches across the country.

Known for his analytical approach, quiet leadership, and deep commitment to athlete growth, Gary continues to lead NCF Boulder’s programs with the same clarity and dedication that have defined his coaching career for over 45 years. He lives in Boulder with his wife.

 
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Scott Permer, Assistant Coach

Scott Permer is a Prevot certified by the United States Fencing Coaches Association. Scott has been a fencer for more than 20 years. Over the last 15 years, Scott has taught fencing at Colorado State University, and in Fort Collins, Windsor, and Boulder.

Scott teaches all skills levels and has helped fencers to qualify for National Championships and Junior Olympics. He specializes in working with beginners and has taught many summer camps and youth classes. Scott strives not only to teach the technical aspects of the sport, but also to model good health habits, manners and positive sporting behavior for athletes. He brings thoughtfulness and enthusiasm to all his classes.

Visit Us

3:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Monday through Thursday

Northern Colorado Fencers
1949 33rd Street
Boulder, CO 80301

(303) 641-6557