Congratulations to Darren Ferguson and Nadine Ferguson who have both awarded FSA Life Membership.
Darren and Nadine received their awards at the 2024 End of Year celebration event, surrounded by their extended family and club members.
Darren and Nadine both have a long history of contribution to our sport, from early beginnings at the Northern Districts Fencing Club. They have both represented their clubs, state and country at numerous events over the decades.
Fencing Highlight: Nadine Ferguson Life Membership
Celebrating a Pillar of Our Fencing Community
We’d like to congratulate a recent Life Member of our fencing community, Nadine Ferguson, a dedicated and inspiring figure within the fencing world. Nadine’s journey in fencing is one of passion, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the sport. Here’s a closer look at her path and accomplishments:
- Nadine began fencing at the age of 8 / 9 at the Northern Districts Fencing Club.
- Her Grandfather, John Richards, played a key role in her early fencing training, often taking her for footwork sessions and training.
- Her Dad, Rob, not only served as her competition coach but was also her driver to and from training sessions.
- During those long drives, they would often stop at their favourite deli for a Killer Python or a King Rat — a sweet memory of those busy days!
Formative Years & Coaching:
- Nadine was fortunate to train under renowned coaches such as Jim Fazekas, John Bacon, and Leon Thomas.
- As a Junior, Senior and Veteran fencer, Nadine has been part of the SA State Team and has represented Australia as a Veteran fencer.
Life Balance and Fencing:
- Nadine took a brief break from fencing when her children, Clayton and Christian, were born but later returned to the sport with the same passion and drive.
- She has since continued to be a leading figure in the fencing community.
Involvement with Charles Sturt Fencing Club:
- Nadine is an active member of the Charles Sturt Fencing Club, where she plays a significant role in administering school holiday programs and teaching beginner classes.
- As a Veteran fencer, Nadine represents the State and National teams, continuing to compete and bring her wealth of experience to every competition.
A Commitment to the Fencing Community:
- Nadine has consistently shown a willingness to assist at every competition, often without needing to be asked.
- Beyond her participation as a fencer, she also serves as a coach and referee, always stepping in to ensure the smooth running of events and offering her expertise to others.
- Kind, strong, intelligent, mentally tough, and extremely determined — these are just a few words that capture Nadine’s character.
- She is a true asset to our fencing community, always striving to help others while maintaining a high standard of excellence in all she does.
A Pleasure to Know and an Asset to Our Community
Nadine’s contributions to fencing, both as a competitor, administrator and a mentor, are invaluable. Her positive impact on our sport and the people around her cannot be overstated. We are lucky to have her as part of our community! Thank you, Nadine, for your continued contribution to fencing in South Australia and beyond!
Fencing Highlight: Darren Ferguson Life Membership
A Look Back at an Impressive Career
We’d like to congratulate a recent Life Member of our fencing community, Darren Ferguson, whose dedication and contributions to the sport over the years have been nothing short of remarkable. Here’s a brief look at Darren’s fencing journey:
- Started fencing at the age of 10 / 11 years at the Northern Districts Fencing Club.
- His primary weapon of choice was foil, with epee as his second weapon.
- In those early years, Darren often competed against his brother Adam, with Keith refereeing the matches.
- In 1992, Darren won the Under 20 Australian Junior Epee Championships in Canberra.
- A memorable achievement for Darren, though his parents were unable to watch the competition—however, they were allowed to celebrate afterward!
- As a side note, we understand Nadine may have insisted on attending the competition that year, though she was competing herself
- Darren has been a longstanding member of the Charles Sturt Fencing Club.
- As a fencer, he has represented both South Australia and Australia in Junior, Senior, and Veteran competitions.
- He continues to fence and coach at CSFC, helping to mentor and develop the next generation of fencers.
Refereeing and Mentorship:
- Darren has been a key referee and coordinator for South Australia, playing an integral role in the training, upskilling, and mentoring of referees across the state.
- For the past seven years with Fencing SA, Darren has assisted at nearly every competition that we can recall, refereeing as needed and ensuring the smooth operation of events.
- On the national level, Darren has continued to referee at a variety of competitions, contributing to the growth and professionalism of the sport.
- Despite his busy schedule, Darren remains an active fencer and continues to represent our state and country whenever possible.
- His passion for competing in the sport is matched only by his dedication to refereeing, coaching, and mentoring.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Darren Ferguson as a key member of our fencing community. His unwavering commitment to the sport, both as a competitor, coach and a mentor, makes him a role model for fencers of all ages. Thank you, Darren, for your continued contribution to fencing in South Australia and beyond!
