Owner/Head Coach

Paul Vag-Urminsky brings a wealth of experience from the highest levels of competitive fencing as member of the Cambodian National Olympic Team, Paul has competed on some of the biggest stages in the world. He is both a U.S. and Cambodian National Champion and has earned multiple international medals throughout his career.

With 19 years of fencing experience, including 13 years competing internationally, Paul’s journey in the sport has been defined by dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering passion for excellence. As the Men’s and Women’s Épée Coach at Wagner College’s NCAA Division I program, he continues to develop top-tier athletes, guiding them both on and off the strip.

Beyond fencing, Paul has an extensive professional background in finance, having worked as a Finance Manager and Finance Director in the automotive industry before fully dedicating himself to coaching and mentoring athletes. His leadership skills, strategic mindset, and competitive experience make him an exceptional coach who understands both the mental and physical demands of high-level fencing.

Outside of the sport, Paul has a variety of hobbies, including snowboarding, outdoor activities, traveling, music, and community service. Giving back has always been a priority for him, whether through coaching, mentoring, or supporting initiatives that help others grow and succeed.

With a lifelong commitment to fencing and a passion for inspiring the next generation, Paul Vag-Urminsky continues to elevate the sport while making a lasting impact in the fencing community.

Coach

Brian Pan is a dedicated foil coach with a passion for developing fencers of all levels. His fencing journey began at Tottenville High School in 2016, where he served as Foil Captain and Co-Captain of the Tottenville fencing team. Since transitioning into coaching in 2023, Brian has been steadily progressing toward becoming a high-level foil coach, offering both private lessons and group classes to help fencers refine their skills and reach their full potential.

A Staten Island native, Brian studied at Baruch College in Manhattan and also has a finance background, balancing his professional career with his love for coaching. His journey from competitive fencer to coach has been driven by his deep commitment to giving back to the community that helped shape his own fencing career.

Outside of fencing, Brian enjoys food, traveling, tech, and community service. Through his dedication to coaching and mentorship, he continues to make a lasting impact on Staten Island’s fencing community while inspiring the next generation of athletes.

Director of Coaching

David Sierra is a Maître d’Armes (Three-Weapon Master of Fencing) with over 20 years of experience as a coach, mentor, and leader in the fencing community. He is the Head Men’s and Women’s Fencing Coach at Wagner College’s NCAA Division I program, where he continues to develop and guide fencers at the highest collegiate level.

David’s journey in fencing began at Texas A&M, where he first learned the sport and quickly fell in love with it. Since then, he has built an impressive career, becoming a respected figure in both coaching and officiating. He has served as one of the top fencing referees in the country and now plays an active role in shaping the sport through his involvement in multiple organizations.

He currently sits on several committees, including the NCAA and the United States Fencing Coaches Association (USFCA), where he also serves as the Education Manager, contributing to the growth and development of fencing coaches nationwide. In addition to his collegiate coaching, David runs veteran clinics across the United States, helping fencers of all ages and backgrounds refine their skills and stay engaged with the sport.

A true mentor, David is dedicated to developing young athletes for success and glory, instilling in them the discipline, strategy, and mindset needed to compete at the highest levels.

Beyond fencing, David is passionate about food, traveling, music, and mentoring, always finding ways to connect with and inspire those around him. With his wealth of knowledge and dedication to the sport, he continues to make a lasting impact on the fencing community.

Coach

John Lasorsa is a dedicated foil coach with a passion for developing fencers of all levels. As the head coach at Tottenville High School, St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School, and Staten Island Tech, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of fencers. In addition to coaching high school teams, John provides private lessons and leads group classes, helping athletes refine their technique and strategy.

A Staten Island native, John first discovered his love for fencing in high school and has remained deeply involved in the sport ever since. His journey from competitive fencer to coach has been driven by his commitment to giving back to the community that helped shape his own fencing career.

Outside of fencing, John enjoys music, food, concerts, and playing various card games. Whether it's strategy-based card games or casual ones with friends, he loves the challenge and fun they bring. Through his dedication to coaching and mentorship, he continues to make a lasting impact on Staten Island’s fencing community.

Coach

Oreste Schiavone is a veteran fencer with a unique and distinguished background in the sport. Unlike many veteran fencers, his journey began in high school, where he first developed his passion for fencing before continuing to compete at Hunter College. With over 30 years of experience, Oreste has competed at a high level, winning multiple regional and open tournaments and earning numerous medals throughout his career.

Beyond competing, Oreste is a dedicated coach at Staten Island Fencing Club (SIFC), where he shares his expertise with athletes of all levels. He also extends his passion for fencing by coaching afterschool programs in Manhattan, introducing young students to the sport and helping them develop discipline, strategy, and confidence.

Oreste’s commitment to service goes far beyond fencing. As a decorated veteran, he has proudly served his country and continues to give back to his fellow veterans. He actively mentors veterans, providing guidance and support, and also teaches both children and veterans horseback riding in Queens, helping them build confidence and connection through equestrian training. His dedication to mentorship and community service makes him a role model both on and off the fencing strip.

Outside of fencing, Oreste is passionate about music, food, photography, and mentoring. Whether he is working with kids, supporting his fellow veterans, or taking on leadership roles in community service, Oreste remains committed to making a difference. His unwavering dedication to the sport, to mentorship, and to giving back makes him a valuable part of both SIFC and the greater fencing and veteran communities.

Volunteer Coach

Renata Ziganova is a talented and experienced fencer who brings a wealth of international experience to the sport. Originally from Kazan, Russia, she has competed at the highest levels, winning numerous Russian tournaments, including national championships, and earning medals and finalist spots in many prestigious events. She was also a key member of the Russian Travel Team for Cadet and Junior World Cups, gaining invaluable exposure to elite-level competition.

Now competing in the NCAA Division I as part of the Wagner College fencing team, Renata is a two-time quarterfinalist in the NCAA Regional Qualifiers, proving her skill and consistency on the collegiate stage.

Beyond her personal success, Renata has a passion for coaching and mentoring. She is making a significant impact by volunteering her time to develop foil fencers, sharing her expertise and inspiring the next generation. Her dedication to the sport and love for working with kids make her an invaluable part of the fencing community.

Outside of fencing, Renata enjoys photography, traveling, food, music, and, of course, minions! With her deep experience and enthusiasm, she continues to elevate the sport while shaping the future of young fencers.

Volunteer Coach

Ismael Chavez is a rising star in the world of fencing, consistently proving himself on both national and international stages. A Finalist in the NCAA Regional Qualifiers and a proud member of the Wagner College NCAA Division I fencing program, Ismael continues to showcase his dedication and talent at the collegiate level.

His impressive achievements include a Top 50 Junior Ranking (2023-2024) and a Top 31st finish at the Cadet Cairo World Championships in 2021. On the international stage, he secured 3rd place at the Junior World Cup in El Salvador (2023-2024) and a Top 5 individual finish at the Junior Pan American Championships in Rio, Brazil (2024), where he also contributed to a 2nd place finish in the team event.A 14-time national champion, Ismael’s success is built on years of hard work, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether competing nationally, internationally, or at the collegiate level, he continues to push his limits and strive for even greater accomplishments.

Volunteer Coach

Jaime Prim is an accomplished fencer with a strong record of success on both national and international stages. A Quarterfinalist at the 2025 NCAA Regional Qualifiers and a member of the Wagner College NCAA Division I fencing team, Jaime continues to compete at the highest collegiate level while building on his impressive fencing career.

Originally from Spain, Jaime trained with the Spanish National Olympic Team and was a key member of the Spain Travel Team for world cups, gaining invaluable experience competing against some of the world’s best fencers.

His achievements include a Top 8 finish at the Cadet European Circuit in 2022, a Top 56 ranking in the Continental Cadet Circuit (2021), and multiple Top 8 finishes in various national competitions. Most recently, he helped secure the title of Junior National Champion in 2024, further proving his skill and competitive spirit.

With years of elite training and international competition under his belt, Jaime Prim brings a high level of expertise, determination, and passion to every bout.

Volunteer Coach

Daniel Antonio Ojeda Buitrago is an elite fencer with a remarkable career on the national and international stage. A Quarterfinalist at the 2025 NCAA Regional Qualifiers and a proud member of the Wagner College NCAA Division I fencing team, Daniel continues to compete at the highest collegiate level while adding to his impressive list of achievements.

Hailing from Costa Rica, Daniel has been a standout member of the Cadet and Junior National Teams and now represents his country as part of the Senior National Team. His accomplishments span years of dedication and elite competition, making him one of Costa Rica’s most decorated fencers.

Daniel’s top results include:

2019: Bronze Medalist, Individual Cadet Pan-American Championships

2019: Bronze Medalist, Junior Individual World Cup

2020: Cadet Pan-American Champion (Men’s Individual)

2022: Silver Medalist, Junior Individual World Cup

2023: 5th Place Junior Pan-American Championships

2023: 9th Place Senior Pan-American Championships

2023: Bronze Medalist, Junior Individual World Cup

34-Time National Champion (Cadet, Junior, and Senior)

Vice President

David Setlow has been an integral part of the Staten Island fencing community since 2004, bringing nearly two decades of dedication and leadership to the sport. As a longtime member of the previous Staten Island Fencing Center, he has served in a wide range of roles, including Board Member, Club Secretary, Treasurer, Community Ambassador, Graphic Designer, Club President, and Manager. His extensive experience in both administrative and operational aspects of a fencing club has made him a key figure in fostering growth and engagement within the community.

Now, David joins Staten Island Fencing Club (SIFC) as the Vice President, continuing his commitment to the sport and its development. His leadership helps drive the club’s vision forward, ensuring a welcoming and well-managed environment for fencers of all levels.

In addition to his administrative contributions, David remains a passionate member of the fencing community, enjoying casual fencing at the club and staying actively involved in the sport he loves. His deep-rooted dedication and diverse expertise make him an invaluable asset to SIFC’s mission and future success.

Office Manager

Alanna Clayton’s journey in fencing began at just 10 years old, when she first picked up an épée and fell in love with the sport. Since then, her dedication and competitive spirit have propelled her to the NCAA Division I level, where she represents Wagner College as a women’s épée fencer.

Beyond the strip, Alanna is a dedicated student in Wagner College’s Physician Assistant (PA) program, balancing the rigors of academics with the demands of collegiate athletics. Her passion for both fencing and healthcare reflects her commitment to discipline, precision, and perseverance—qualities that define her both as an athlete and a future medical professional.

When she’s not training or studying, Alanna enjoys lifting, spending quality time with her family, and listening to music. Whether she’s pushing herself in the gym, relaxing with loved ones, or finding motivation in her favorite songs, she embraces a well-rounded lifestyle that fuels her ambitions on and off the piste.

With her unwavering drive and love for competition, Alanna continues to strive for excellence in every aspect of her life, proving that success is built through passion, resilience, and hard work.

Webmaster/Social Media Manager

Kate Sierra is an accomplished fencer, coach, and advocate for the sport, bringing both competitive excellence and mentorship to the fencing community. A Prévôt in Sabre, she has amassed numerous national medals throughout her career, solidifying her reputation as a top-tier veteran athlete. She is currently ranked in the Top 8 in the country for veteran women’s sabre, a testament to her dedication and skill.

Her recent achievements include winning the Tri-State Veteran Cup Championship in Women’s Sabre for the 2023-2024 season and earning a silver medal at the Veterans North American Cup (NAC) in Kansas City in 2025. These accolades highlight her consistency and determination in high-level veteran competition.

Beyond her own competitive success, Kate is committed to the development of fencers at all levels. She serves as a Volunteer Assistant Coach at Wagner College, where she mentors and trains NCAA Division I athletes, helping them refine their technique and strategic understanding of the sport.

In addition to her coaching role, Kate has been a member of the USA Fencing Veterans Committee since 2022, actively working to expand opportunities for veteran fencers and ensure their continued growth and success in the sport.

Kate’s passion for fencing extends far beyond competition. Whether on the piste, coaching on the sidelines, or advocating for veteran athletes, she continues to make a profound impact on the fencing community through her expertise, leadership, and unwavering dedication.