We are thrilled to announce that Olympian and Olympic Team Saber Coach Akhi Spencer-El is officially joining the coaching staff at Tim Morehouse Fencing Club, starting Monday, February 3!
This is far more than just a professional addition to our team—it’s a truly meaningful full-circle moment. Akhi and I share a special history that dates back to our elementary school days at Central Park East in East Harlem. From being schoomates to becoming Olympic fencers, our journeys have intertwined in incredible ways over the past 40 years!
Akhi is widely regarded for his exceptional coaching expertise and just as importantly, he is also deeply respected for his integrity, kindness, and dedication to his students. As Akhi joins us as a coach, I am very grateful that I will be able to work with him to inspire and develop the next generation of champions at our newest facility, TMFC’s East Side location, where he will play a key role in leading the growth of the club.
We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Akhi to the TMFC family!
A Legacy of Excellence in Fencing
Akhi Spencer-El brings an extraordinary wealth of experience and accomplishments to TMFC. A seasoned coach at both the prestigious New York Fencers Club and the Peter Westbrook Foundation, Akhi has also spent years shaping top-tier athletes at Columbia University with the team claiming 3 national titles during his tenure. His coaching career includes serving as a multi-time U.S. National and Olympic Men’s Saber Team Coach at the Paris Olympics. His students include US Olympic Medalist Daryl Homer, Olympian Khalil Thompson and Olympic Medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad in addition to the numerous national and international medalists he has coached and developed throughout the years.
Coaching education
Akhi’s education and training are equally impressive—he holds a Maestro’s degree from the renowned Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary, a program that has also produced TMFC coaches Iba Keita, Mamodou Keita, and Coach Sall.
Athletic Accomplishments
As an athlete, Akhi represented the United States at the highest levels of competition. He made history as the first U.S. saber fencer to achieve the #1 world ranking as a Junior, a groundbreaking achievement at the time. He competed in the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, became a two-time U.S. National Champion, and solidified his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest.
A Vision for TMFC
At Tim Morehouse Fencing Club, Akhi will bring his unmatched expertise, passion, and coaching philosophy to help elevate both our developmental and competitive programs. From guiding youth fencers to supporting elite athletes, Akhi’s leadership will be a game-changer for our community. His addition reflects our commitment to providing world-class training and mentorship for fencers at every level.
A Family Affair
Akhi is not only a remarkable coach but also a dedicated family man. He and his wife are proud parents to four wonderful children: twins Zoe and Olivia, who are both 11 years old; Elijah, a 13-year-old saber fencer who is excited to join the TMFC community; and Skye, who is 16 years old.
Achievements as a Coach
Olympic Coach: Coached the U.S. Men’s Saber Team at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Columbia University: Guided one of the nation’s top collegiate fencing programs to three national championships.
Peter Westbrook Foundation: Continues to mentor young athletes, fostering their development in fencing and life.
Welcome to the team, Coach Akhi Spencer-El—we are thrilled to have you with us!
Join Us in Welcoming Akhi Spencer-El
on Friday, February 7 at our East Side Location at 235 East 49th from 5pm-9pm.
We will be hosting a special welcome celebration on on Friday, February 7 to welcome Akhi as well as some additional new faces to the TMFC community. The club will run on a modified schedule, with open bouting from 5pm-9pm along with wine and refreshments for parents and guests.
If you are interested in fencing and joining us for this welcome event, please register below:
