Photo: Colton Williams and his fencing coach, Patricia Waples
Fifteen-year-old Colton Williams, son of Ronald and Cassie Williams of Prescott Valley has qualified for the Fencing Junior Olympics. This major competition will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina, on February 19th. Only 3 youths from Arizona qualified for this cadet 14-17 event.
Colton started fencing when he was 9 years old and first competed at the age of 10 in the under 12 division placing 3rd at the Prescott Open, the largest competition in Arizona.
In 2023, Colton earned a 3rd place win at the ASU Spring Sun Devil Open, where he competed against much older college students and adults. The strong finish earned him a national rating at the age of 14.
Photo: Colton fencing with his coach
Later in 2023, Colton qualified to compete in the Summer National Championships. He represented Salle d’Escrime of Prescott and the state of Arizona in the Y14 Division.
Colton is a Freshman at the Arizona Agriculture and Equine Center High School in Prescott Valley. He fences with his coach, Patricia Waples at the James Family Prescott YMCA.
Fencing classes are held at the James Family Prescott YMCA. Classes are Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Thursday evening from 7:00p.m.to 9:00 p.m. For further information on fencing classes, phone the YMCA at 928-445-7221.
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About James Family Prescott YMCA
The James Family Prescott YMCA is a community within a community serving our diverse population in the quad-city area. As a leading nonprofit organization, the YMCA exists to strengthen the foundation of the community. The YMCA serves local communities in Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and Dewey/Humboldt since 1974; offering over 60 health, wellness and community programs within the four-building facility.
The YMCA is dedicated to providing affordable programs and services to benefit people of all incomes and backgrounds. Thanks to the generous support of those who donate to the Y’s Annual Campaign and other fundraising events, financial assistance is available to those who cannot afford the full fee and qualify for assistance.
The YMCA aims to provide each member with every opportunity to reach farther and improve their lives and the lives of those around them. Through Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility, the YMCA’s goal is to inspire positive and lasting social change. For more information visit www.prescottymca.org.
About the Y
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 21 million men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. ymca.net
