En Garde for All - Inclusive Fencing for Neurodiverse

EnGardeforAll is an innovative, 12-month initiative uniting community-based organizations and fencing clubs in Bulgaria and Spain to pilot a new methodology that addresses the intersectional challenges faced by neurodiverse and LGBTI+ participants in sports. By blending mental health/emotional intelligence expertise, LGBTI+ advocacy, and firsthand neurodiverse perspectives, the project creates a holistic model of inclusion in fencing—serving as a blueprint for broader athletic communities. Core Aims and Strategies • Intersectional Training: Coaches and volunteers receive “Inclusive Coaching 2.0,” combining neurodiversity-friendly techniques—such as color-coded drills and sensory adaptations—with LGBTI+ awareness, including affirming language and gender-neutral facilities. • Neuro-Flexible Sessions: Weekly pilot fencing classes integrate quieter practice times, optional noise-canceling headphones, and visual prompts. These accommodations help reduce anxiety and sensory overload, allowing neurodiverse athletes to thrive. • LGBTI+ Inclusion: Clubs adopt explicit policies on pronoun usage, microaggression handling, and facility design, ensuring that participants of all gender identities and sexual orientations feel safe and respected. • Peer Support & Feedback: “Inclusion Ambassadors,” drawn from each club and local advocacy groups, offer hands-on guidance to new participants. A simple smartphone or color-based system tracks comfort levels in real time, enabling coaches to adapt training on the spot. • Community Engagement: Open house events, friendly matches, and social media campaigns highlight inclusive fencing in action—showcasing success stories, boosting awareness, and encouraging broader community buy-in. Long-Term Impact Through structured evaluation (focus groups, surveys) and collaborative refinement, EnGardeforAll will produce a publicly available toolkit capturing best practices, lessons learned, and adaptable resources for any sport. that is published through this page expresses the views of the project beneficiaries only and it does not represent the views of the European Union or the European Commission. It shall not be deemed to constitute legal or official notice on behalf of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the European Commission can be held responsible for this content nor the use thereof made by any third parties. Page 2 of 2