Fencer Stephanie Turner Advocates for Women’s Sports Amid Controversy

Stephanie Turner has gained attention as a staunch advocate for women’s sports, particularly after a protest video of her kneeling against transgender athletes circulated widely in April 2025. This incident occurred during her last U.S. fencing competition. Since then, USA Fencing has faced significant challenges and scrutiny, including lawsuits regarding transgender participation, a shift in its gender eligibility policy, and changes in leadership, all aimed at regaining trust from athletes and fans post-controversy.

When asked if she might return to U.S. fencing competitions after the recent adjustments, Turner expressed skepticism. She stated, “This change in USA Fencing leadership is nothing more than a game of musical chairs. These board members—without critical oversight—will likely continue the very policies that led to congressional scrutiny. I hope to come back once things settle down.”

In response to Turner’s potential return, USA Fencing indicated its openness to all eligible athletes while emphasizing the importance of a safe and respectful environment for everyone involved in the sport.

Turner’s dissent stemmed from a significant penalty she received—a black card—at the Cherry Blossom Open in Maryland for her protest. She faced disqualification and a suspended sentence, leading her to leave the organization to focus on advocating for women’s sports.

In a subcommittee hearing, Turner spoke about the ongoing political debates surrounding transgender athletes and their impact on women’s sports. Following this event, she revealed plans to push for changes in the leadership of U.S. fencing once she retires, specifically calling for resignations of those accused of harassing women in the sport.

USA Fencing’s Board made amendments to its policies, including those about competition venues and LGBTQ inclusion, following a meeting in June. Notably, they revised their transgender participation policy to ensure only biological females compete in women’s categories, aligning with new policies from the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

In October, a change in leadership occurred when former President Damian Lehfeldt chose not to run for re-election, making way for Dr. Scott Rogers as the new chairman—the first active athlete to hold this position. USA Fencing expressed its commitment to rebuilding trust within the fencing community while acknowledging past challenges.

Looking ahead, USA Fencing announced plans to expand the sport at the collegiate level, with institutions like Arcadia University and Fairleigh Dickinson University set to introduce men’s and women’s fencing teams by fall 2027. However, they still face litigation from several female fencers challenging the inclusion of biological males in women’s competitions.