About
Located in Issaquah, Washington, just 15 minutes east of Seattle, Washington Fencing Academy (WFA) has been a cornerstone of the Seattle Eastside fencing community since 2002. We specialize in Olympic-style saber fencing, offering classes, private lessons, events, and practice sessions for children and adults of all skill levels. As a fully sanctioned member of the United States Fencing Association (USFA), we are committed to providing top-tier fencing instruction in a welcoming and competitive environment.
Our facility features a dedicated fencing floor as well as a comfortable viewing area with free WiFi, where parents can catch up on work, students can study, or visitors can simply relax and enjoy the action. Whether you're here to train, spectate, or support a fencer, you'll find WFA to be a friendly and accommodating space.
At WFA, we provide expert instruction for both recreational and competitive fencers of all ages. We are also home to one of the most active and successful Veteran (40+) programs in the region. Many National and World Champions have trained at WFA, including Mark Lundborg (our head coach and three-time World Champion), Jeff Gueble, and Ellen O’Leary. Whether you're looking to learn the sport, sharpen your skills, or compete at the highest levels, WFA is the place to be!
Our Team
Mark Lundborg - Head Coach
Mark Lundborg began fencing after watching fencing at the 1984 LA Olympics. He joined WFA in 2013 and has been fencing for over two decades. He holds the instructor rank of Moniteur and brings a wealth of experience to our students. He is a Co-Owner of WFA.
A three-time World Champion, Mark made history in 2019 by winning gold at the World Veteran’s Cup, becoming the Men’s Saber World Champion in the Vet 50-59 category. He remains the only fencer to win gold in his first-ever World Championship appearance while also being the oldest competitor in his age group.
When the World Championships resumed in 2022 after COVID-related cancellations, Mark returned to claim gold once again—this time in the Vet 60-69 category. In 2023, he successfully defended his title, winning gold for the third consecutive time. He has brought home 6 World Championship medals in total, and his dominance on the world stage has cemented his legacy as a World Champion.
At WFA, Mark teaches advanced and competitive-level classes and offers private lessons to intermediate and advanced competitive students, helping them refine their skills and develop a winning mindset.
Ethan Miller
Ethan has been fencing since he was seven years old and has been a valued member of WFA since 2017. He quickly rose through the ranks, starting as a camp counselor and developing into a key member of our coaching team.
Currently holding a D24 rating, Ethan is also a rated referee and is actively working toward his Assistant Moniteur instructor certification. He teaches all class levels and serves as one of WFA’s primary tournament coaches, and offers private lessons for students of all skill levels.
Having moved frequently as a child, Ethan was exposed to a variety of coaching styles and fencing techniques, giving him a broad, well-rounded perspective that enhances his teaching. His diverse experience makes him an invaluable asset to WFA, bringing technical knowledge, adaptability, and a fresh approach to our students.
Angie Bongaarts
Angie joined WFA in 2016, discovering her passion for fencing at the age of 45. Just a year later, in 2017, she took on key administrative roles within the organization and began teaching youth fencers. Now a co-owner of WFA, Angie coaches beginner and intermediate-level students and is currently working toward her Assistant Moniteur instructor certification. She offers private lessons for beginner and intermediate level students.
Before fencing, Angie built a strong foundation in Shotokan Karate, where she competed at the national level, earning a bronze medal in 1999. With over a decade of teaching experience in karate, she developed a deep understanding of body mechanics, discipline, and competitive mindset—all of which she seamlessly integrates into her fencing instruction. Her unique background gives her students a well-rounded approach to training, emphasizing both technical skill and mental preparation for competition.
Kristyna Kalisova
Kiki joined WFA in 2016 at just 10 years old and quickly became a dedicated competitor. Before heading off to college, she regularly competed in local and regional tournaments, consistently ranking in her division. She currently holds a C22 rating.
Now a biochemistry major at the University of Washington, Kiki continues to share her passion for fencing as one of WFA’s most beloved instructors. Consistently rated as a student favorite, she teaches beginner and intermediate-level students, bringing energy, expertise, and a competitive mindset to her coaching. With her strong tournament background, she excels at teaching footwork, reflexes, and mental preparation, helping students develop both skill and confidence on the strip.
Jeff Geuble
Jeff discovered fencing on his first day of college, drawn in after walking past a class—and he’s been hooked ever since. A dedicated competitor, he has competed at the regional, national, and international levels, earning impressive results.
In 2019, Jeff won bronze in Veteran Men’s Saber (Team) at the World Championships, where he also placed 6th individually in the Vet 60-69 Men’s Saber category. His extensive competition experience makes him a valuable resource for fencers looking to refine their skills and strategy.
Jeff offers private lessons for intermediate and advanced competitive students, helping them elevate their game with expert coaching and tactical insight.