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.

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.

Ataba Club Flagship Fencer

Margherita, a native Italian fencer and naturalized American for her fencing merits, 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 welcome all fencers to the club, but when her mask goes down on the strip, she is a formidable opponent respected for her talents, technique, and determination.

Margherita embodies the club’s values of kindness, fair play, excellent fencing, and healthy comradeship as she donates her time to help other fencers develop.

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.

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.