Earlier this year, the International Governing Body of Wheelchair fencing re-branded to ‘World Para Fencing’. BF has reviewed its terminology to reflect this and updated the glossary of terms used in fencing.
The world governing body for the paralympic sport of wheelchair fencing (formally known as IWAS) re-named and re-branded to World Para Fencing with a new logo in early 2025.
The name World Para Fencing reflects the wide spectrum of people with disabilities who are practicing fencing around the globe, and the inclusivity the International Federation is striving to achieve.
The word ‘Para’ has also become uniquely synonymous with disability sport that complies with the International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC’s) Classification Code, with a series of other governing bodies already permitted to use the term by the IPC.
The striking new logo launched at the same time features a modern twist on the iconic fencing mask, with a perforated ribbon-style icon which sits alongside the Federation’s new name.
While the beautifully stylised mask is an obvious choice, as one of the most unique aspects of fencing equipment, the blue and orange colouring and choice of typeface represents the sport’s links to World Abilitysport whilst also being as vibrant and impressive as the athletes its serves.
The logo is designed specifically to match and complement the World Abilitysport look and feel, bringing it into one family.
The expectation of the International Governing Body over time is that wheelchair fencing will become a discipline of Para fencing as more formats and disability groups are added.
British Fencing has revised its glossary of common terms used in fencing and as a reminder:
Para Fencing – The disciplines of Fencing that are adapted for Paralympic Eligible disabilities. Longer term this can include visual impairment for instance.
BF will refer to any licensed events that include wheelchair fencing that require classification as ‘para fencing events’.
Para Fencers – Paralympic Classified Fencers that compete in World Para Fencing events (includes all that represent GBR).
Our squad of para fencers is currently the most successful squad in the history of Para Fencing.
We use this term to refer to paralympic classified fencers on the Paralympic pathway and those in the World Class Programme, including those participating in World Para Fencing and Paralympic events.
Wheelchair Fencing – This is the discipline of fencing that requires the use of specialised Wheelchair equipment. Wheelchair Fencing refers to the sport. Classification is not required.
“The British Open is a Wheelchair Fencing Competition”. BF will refer to any licensed events that include wheelchair fencing events that are not requiring classification as ‘wheelchair fencing events’.
Wheelchair Fencers – Fencers that participate in the sport of Wheelchair Fencing. There is no requirement to be classified.
We do not restrict anyone from referring themselves as a wheelchair fencer, in fact we would encourage anyone at any level of the sport, whether it be using a SwordSeat or using a fixed frame and wheelchair.
“We run wheelchair fencing classes at our club, using the SwordSeat because it’s cheaper.”
This term can be used interchangeably when talking about Para fencers who compete in the Wheelchair Fencing competitions.
It can also be used for fencers who are competing in BF competitions but are not yet classified, or do not meet the classification requirements.
Seated Fencing – The activity of fencing sitting down. All fencing activity in a SwordSeat.
“Trying fencing sitting down can be the first step on the pathway to participating in the sport of Wheelchair Fencing.”
At BF we use the term Seated Fencing:
To market the sport to a wider catchment of individuals and potential partners who can support the growth of the sport.
When we are working with clubs to introduce fencing for the first time to new people who have no experience of the sport, might not use a wheelchair, are unable to take part in standing fencing, but really want to try the sport. This activity would take place in the SwordSeat (or in a fixed wheelchair and frame if a club has one).
Seated Fencer – An all-encompassing term to describe everyone that sits down to participate in fencing for any reason in any type of seat.
Further info:
This refers to the wider community of fencers who sit in a chair or wheelchair to fence, at the club and national level, but who may not be classified or classifiable as a Paralympic athlete.
To be used when describing the grassroots recreational community activity.
Related information:
Learn about Classification here
GBR Wheelchair fencing transfers from UKSI to British Fencing
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