Meet our coaches

At Still Point Fencing, the safety and well-being of our participants are our top priorities. All of our coaches are certified by USA Fencing, the national governing body for the sport, which ensures that our coaches have successfully passed USA Fencing's background check process and completed SafeSport training. This training equips them to create a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for fencers of all ages and skill levels. Meet our entire coaching staff.

Coach Jay working on Epee basics with a new student

Coach Jay working on Epee basics with a new student

Jay Fowler started fencing in 2005 in Phoenix, Arizona with Romanian fencing master Adrian Colcisca. In 2009 he founded Wildcat Fencing at the University of Arizona where he went on to be the head coach after graduating, a role he continues to hold. As the coach at Wildcat Fencing he turned out more than a dozen Division I fencers and built one of the most competitive epee clubs in the southwest. He has been the number one men's epeeist on the Arizona Division points every season since 2016, currently holds the rank of Moniteur from the USFCA (US Fencing Coaches Association), an 'A' rating in epee, and a six in epee refereeing. Jay joined Stillpoint in 2021 bringing a thriving epee program with him.

 

Coach Logan leading in drills with Epee students

Logan Laursen has been a dedicated member of the Arizona fencing community since 2013, having spent his formative years training in Phoenix with coach Ewa Medynska. His passion for the sport led him to transition into leadership as an assistant coach for EWA Fencing in 2022, where he helped guide athletes through several high-level campaigns. A seasoned competitor, Logan qualified for and attended the Junior Olympics in 2022, 2023, and 2024, as well as the 2024 Nationals. In 2025, he joined Stillpoint, where he continues to apply his years of competitive experience to help fencers sharpen their skills. Logan values the continuity of the Arizona fencing scene and is committed to fostering the next generation of athletes at Stillpoint.

 

Coach Christian discussing proper wrist position with an Epee student

Christian Mandel started fencing in 2023, joining Still Point following the recommendation of a friend and fellow fencer. Christian greatly admired the skill and sportsmanship displayed by all the fencers and coaches at the club, and he quickly became a regular member, attending every class that he could. Learning under head coach Jay Fowler, Christian holds a ā€˜C’ rating in epee and has earned medals in several events and tournaments, both in and out of the state of Arizona. He enjoys the mental and physical challenges that the sport of fencing provides, believing that every bout offers a new experience to learn and grow from. As an assistant coach with Still Point, Christian looks forward to sharing the joy of fencing with everyone, including both new and established fencers.

 

Coach Lylli posing with both an Epee and a Foil

Lyllian Franz has spent over five years as a competitive foilist, a journey that taught her that true success in fencing begins with a positive mindset and a resilient foundation. Having competed in both local and national tournaments, Lyllian eventually found a new passion in coaching, where she now mentors athletes in the finer points of the sport. Her coaching philosophy goes beyond simple bladework; she is dedicated to fostering self-discipline and confidence in every student she meets. Whether working with a beginner or a seasoned competitor, Lyllian strives to help every fencer reach their personal podium, believing that every lesson is an opportunity to build character alongside skill.

 

Coach Norah posing in front of Still Point tournament seedings

Norah Jacob began her fencing career at Still Point Fencing in 2023 at the age of 14, quickly distinguishing herself through a rigorous competitive schedule. Growing up in the sport alongside her brother, she rapidly ascended the regional and national ranks, earning a "D" rating in foil in under three years. She brings a wealth of national-level experience to her students, having represented Still Point at both the Junior Olympics and Summer Nationals. Now serving as an assistant coach at Still Point, Nora specializes in the foil program, where she leads classes and provides individual technical instruction. She has become an integral part of the coaching staff, translating her national-level experience into structured private lessons and group classes.