UNITED STATES ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGIATE FENCING CLUBS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP RETURNS TO HAPPY VALLEY

The United States Association of Collegiate Fencing Clubs (USACFC) National Championships will return to the Nittany Valley Sports Centre in 2026. This marks the second year the event will be hosted in Happy Valley.   

Scheduled for April 11th-12th, the USACFC is the largest collegiate club fencing tournament in the country. The event brings together top university fencing clubs from across the U.S. to compete in foil, épée, and sabre events for both men and women.  

USACFC Interim President, Christophe Pellissier shared his excitement “Returning to Happy Valley feels like picking up right where we left off. The Nittany Valley Sports Centre set the bar high last year, and we’re proud to be returning to this top-tier venue for our athletes and fans alike. We’re excited to once again showcase the talent and tradition that define USACFC.”  

The 2025 event brought in over 800 student-athletes and fans from out of state, providing a boost to local hotels, restaurants, and businesses. Organizers expect the 2026 tournament to have a similar impact, with teams traveling from all over the country to compete.  

“We’re thrilled to welcome the USACFC National Championships back to Happy Valley in 2026,” said Eric Engelbarts, Executive Director of the Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance. “We’re proud to once again showcase our community to collegiate athletes and fans from across the country”.   

Located just minutes from downtown, The Nittany Valley Sports Centre is a top venue with modern courts, spacious competition areas, and athlete-friendly amenities. Beyond hosting the USACFC National Championships, the Centre regularly welcomes major events such as regional and national tournaments in basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, wrestling, and cheerleading, making it a hub for high-level athletic competition throughout the year.  

More details, including team registration, volunteer opportunities, and ticket information, will be announced as the event approaches.