In 1997 an expanded Summer National Championships was held in early July to eliminate conflicts with the end of the school year. The USFA issues classifications of A, B, C, D and E to its competitive fencers, with A being the highest level. Fencers may earn classifications through improved performance at high-level events. The USFA started a Division II and Division III NAC in 1995. This is intended to be a developmental event, not just for fencers but also for referees, armorers and other official personnel.
Fencers earn points based on placement at national events and certain international events.
These standings are used to select U.S. teams. The USFA began naming a National Team in 1989. Each year, the country's top fencers earn spots on the team, based on the national point standings. The USFA has begun to designate National Training Centers for each of the five Olympic events. The Rochester Fencing Centre in Rochester, N.Y., run by National Women's Foil Coach Buckie Leach, is the training center for women's foil.