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ON-GUARD "SABRE SISTERS" COLLABORATE WITH SWORDS AFTER SURGERY TRAINING

13 women took part in a female-only coach development day in Durham on 8th August 2026. The following day, five women completed the practical element of the Swords After Surgery instructor training to support the delivery of BF’s new social impact programme for women recovering from breast cancer surgery.

Last updated 25th August 2026. Please note, this post has been edited since initial publication.

This all-female training weekend, led by Beth Cranston-Selby and supported by Lorraine Rose, BF Project Officer – Workforce Development, was made possible by a collaboration with North-East Region England Fencing On-Guard Sister programme and in-kind access to Durham University dedicated fencing facility.

The development day provided a supportive environment for participants to explore coaching practice, share experiences, and build confidence in sabre fencing, alongside other women involved in fencing. The initiative forms part of BF’s ongoing commitment to increasing opportunities for women across coaching and workforce development, included in our 2030 Strategy.

The following day, five women from the North West, North East, and Scotland completed instructor training for BF’s new Swords After Surgery programme. Developed as a sword-based exercise and rehabilitation programme, Swords After Surgery aims to support women recovering from breast cancer treatment through safe, structured, and enjoyable physical activity. From these five, three women will now work with Beth to obtain their Introduction To Coaching Fencing (ITCF) qualification.

The instructor training introduced participants to the programme’s coaching philosophy, safety principles, and practical delivery methods. Instructors learned how to create welcoming, trauma-aware environments while supporting women recovering from breast cancer surgery and treatment. The programme places a strong emphasis on empowerment, connection, fun, and participant-centred delivery.

Some women in sportswear do fencing exercises in a salle

Lorraine commented on the weekend:

“The women’s coaching development day focused on sabre and welcomed fencers and coaches of all ages and experience levels, from Veteran World Championship athletes to those transitioning from foil and epee. The day was filled with great discussion, shared learning, and a fantastic atmosphere.

The Swords After Surgery instructor training was particularly special as it is a programme designed to support women recovering from breast cancer surgery through movement, confidence-building, and connection. The training was highly collaborative, enriched by the contribution of a participant with lived experience, and it was inspiring to see everyone share ideas and help shape the programme’s future. My thanks to Beth Cranston-Selby supported On-Guard Sister and Durham University  for the opportunity to be involved.”

Click here to learn more about Swords After Surgery.

This news post relates to the BF 2030 Strategy Goal 4, to Support Women and Girls. Find out more about the BF Strategy here.