Our Coaches and Staff

Brian Duckwitz, Head Coach (He/Him)

With over 18 years of coaching experience, Brian is committed to expanding the sport of fencing in Wisconsin. He is a certified Prévôt (Level 4) in Epee and Foil, and a Moniteur (Level 3) in Sabre through the United States Fencing Coaches Association. He has coached at Madison Fencing Academy and grew a successful fencing program at UW-Rock County. Brian is also the head coach of the University of Wisconsin Fencing Club. Brian enjoys working with fencers of all levels, from the absolute beginner to the serious competitor.

Brian (at) BadgerFencingClub (dot) com

Assistant Coach Sol Bixby (they/them)

Coach Sol is an experienced fencer, with 15 years of competitive experience in foil and epee. Originally from New Hampshire, they learned to fence at Seacoast Fencing Club and competed in the Northeast Division. They run warmups, teach classes, and are always happy to answer questions.

Melissa Olson, Club Coordinator (She/Her)

Melissa Olson manages Badger Fencing Club’s social media, newsletter, and special events. In addition to her role at BFC, Melissa is a freelance writer of novels, comics, and marketing materials.
When she’s not working with the club or on a book, Melissa can be found wrangling her dogs or teaching her own cardio dance class, Burlesque Fitness For Any Body. She believes that exercise is for everyone and all bodies are good bodies.

Melissa (at) BadgerFencingClub (dot) com