Skyward Fencing Celebrates Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting in South Barrington
(Barrington, IL – February 19, 2026) The Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce, joined by Village of South Barrington officials, welcomed Skyward Fencing with a ribbon cutting ceremony held on Tuesday, February 10, celebrating the grand opening of its new facility at The Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Rd., Ste. Q-50.
Founded and led by renowned instructor Adam Ali, Skyward Fencing was established with a vision to develop and grow a strong fencing community dedicated to épée in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Blending the rich origins of fencing with modern, cutting-edge techniques, the club provides structured instruction for athletes of all skill levels while emphasizing respect, teamwork, self-discipline, and sportsmanship.
The club’s expansive, newly constructed training space offers a bright, polished setting designed specifically for competitive fencing. With pristine flooring, state-of-the-art equipment, and thoughtfully designed strips, the facility reflects a commitment to excellence and provides athletes with an elevated training experience from the moment they step inside.
Ali has been fencing since 2013 and coaching since 2016, competing at the Division 1 National level and recently representing the United States in international competition in Belgium. He also directs the fencing program at Harper College and has partnered with local park districts to introduce new community-based fencing programs, that expand access to the sport throughout the region.
“We are incredibly excited to introduce fencing to the Barrington community and to create a place where athletes of all ages can discover the sport for the first time or continue developing at a high level,” said Ali. “Our goal is to build a welcoming environment that challenges athletes, strengthens confidence, and encourages our students to have fun while learning and growing.”
Now enrolling students ages 6 through adult, Skyward Fencing offers classes for beginners through advanced competitors. The club offers flexible memberships, private lessons, and group classes designed to support both competitive training and recreational participation. Athletes have opportunities to train for regional, national, and international competitions, while recreational fencers can enjoy a dynamic and challenging sport in a supportive setting. A free introductory trial class is available for those new to fencing.
For more information or to register for classes, visit www.skywardfencing.com, call (847) 306-2180 or email hello@skywardfencing.com.
Photo Caption:
- Adam Ali, Founder of Skyward Fencing, stands center holding the ceremonial scissors, joined by his Skyward team, members of the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce, and Village of South Barrington officials during the ribbon cutting celebration at The Arboretum of South Barrington.
- The Skyward Fencing team gathers inside its newly opened South Barrington facility at The Arboretum of South Barrington following the grand opening celebration, marking a new chapter for épée fencing in the community. Pictured left to right: Shazia Fatima, Jean Manianglung, Lucas Bobitz, Oliver Biehl, Kamil Podgorski, Geoffrey Ali, Adam Ali, Melisa Ono, Harry Ruetschlin, Katie Cheever, Aliena Marin, Austin Bransky, and Zoe Meshenberg.
About the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC): The BACC (www.BarringtonChamber.com), founded in 1969, is an association of over 800 member businesses representing more than 1,800 businesspeople dedicated to the success and prosperity of the 11 regional communities it serves: Barrington, Barrington Hills, Deer Park, Inverness, Kildeer, Lake Barrington, Long Grove, North Barrington, Port Barrington, South Barrington, and Tower Lakes. BACC promotes economic opportunities, advocates the interests of business, offers programs for professional development and leadership, and works to foster a robust regional economy.
# # #