Meet Ataba Fencing Coaches and Staff
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Abbas Fadel
Club Founder, Head Fencing Coach
Coach Abbas draws on the great historical-cultural traditions of his Egyptian homeland to be the brilliant teacher and extraordinary person he is.
As a 3-time Olympian, Coach Abbas has always had the ability not only to compete with the best and successfully face the most demanding challenges, but to become himself a forger of champions and promoter of talents. As an athlete he dominated and won; as a fencing teacher he can fully understand the psychology of each of his students and bring out the best potential in each.
Regardless of their age or experience level, Coach Abbas teaches his fencing students to always look forward, beyond obstacles and difficulties, and face life (on and off the strip) with enthusiasm and curiosity.
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Dan Torchia
Fencing Coach
Coach Dan is a passionate and experienced fencing teacher with a long career as head fencing coach at Catholic Memorial High School. He's good with kids because he knows how to fully understand their personalities and motivate them, pushing them to always give their best.
Coach Dan says that fencing is a “teacher of life,” encouraging self-control and discipline while promoting inclusiveness and healthy interactions with others.
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Margherita Guzzi Vincenti
Ataba Club Flagship Fencer
Margherita, an Olympian who competed in the 2024 Paris Games, is the flagship fencer of Ataba Fencing Club and a member of the U.S. Women’s Epee National Team. Her warmth and friendly smile make all fencers feel welcome, but once her mask goes down on the strip, Margherita transforms into a formidable opponent, admired for her exceptional technique, talent, and determination.
She truly embodies the values of Ataba Fencing Club: kindness, fair play, excellence in fencing, and camaraderie. Margherita generously donates her time to help fellow fencers develop and reach their potential, setting a high standard both on and off the strip
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Holly Heim
Ataba Club Manager
A club always needs an efficient and friendly contact person who knows how to welcome fencers and their families with a smile, answer any questions and solve any problems. Holly is an amazing manager, always available and observant, punctual and precise, and able to organize and listen. Holly will welcome you in the best possible way and to make you feel at home, like a friend among friends.
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Ann Keating
Personal Trainer
Ann is an energetic and enthusiastic personal trainer, available Mondays and Saturdays at the club during open practice time. She is specialized in rehab, functional movement, and stress relief.
If you are an athlete or the parent of a fencer and want to learn how to balance the body to be more functional, or if you are interested in new warm-ups and work-one-on-one for a better movement, Ann is the right person for you.