Kaeding named Lawrence fencing coach

APPLETON, Wis. — Alex Kaeding is the new fencing coach at Lawrence University, Director of Athletics Mike Szkodzinski announced Monday.

Kaeding takes over for Steve Amich, who steps down after nearly three decades with the program. Kaeding, who moves up from the role of assistant coach, is a former Lawrence fencer and 2009 graduate of the university.

“While we are pleased to announce the appointment of Alex Kaeding as our new fencing coach, we want to recognize the contributions of Coach Amich,” Szkodzinski said. “Steve has done a tremendous job leading our program for more than 20 years and will continue to contribute as the assistant coach during this transition period. His loyalty and dedication to the program have been extraordinary. We are thankful for his willingness to continue with the program in this capacity.”

Kaeding has been an assistant coach with the Vikings since 2009 and is a United States Fencing Coaches Association certified instructor. Kaeding is a United States Fencing Association A-rated fencer with more than 15 years of experience.

“We are confident Alex will continue to move our program forward,” Szkodzinski said. “His passion for the program is obvious and our scholar-athletes will benefit from his experiences as both a coach and excellent fencer.”

Amich has been with the Lawrence fencing program since it achieved varsity status in 1985. Amich took the reins as head coach after the retirement of long-time coach Mary Poulson in 1993. During Amich’s tenure as head coach, Lawrence won a national championship when Mike Gattnar took the NCAA epee title in 1995. Amich also coached Jeff Peyton, who is the only four-time NCAA Championships qualifier (1998-2001) in Lawrence history.