Al Carter is the founder of Xcel Fencing in San Francisco. Al began his fencing career while a high school student in Los Angeles, and in just 16 months, he was a member of his first World Team, and an International Silver Medalist. A few months later, he earned an International Champion Title. Al continued to represent the U.S. in World Competition over the next 7 years, before graduating from the University of Pennsylvania.

After a 7 year break, he began coaching and competing, once again achieving Top National & International results, while students consistently became top in the nation as well. Throughout his competitive career, he trained extensively in Italy under the unique perspective and guidance of Maestro Livio DiRosa (respected as one of the greatest masters in fencing history for numerous legendary students and a legacy of disciple fencing masters worldwide). Al was also ranked among the top in the world, a member of 7 World Teams, and helped the U.S Team secure it’s Top World Ranking, (4th Place), in 2006. In addition, he earned 4 National Titles, a Pan-American Games Silver Medal, and All-American & All-Ivy League recognition.

Over the last 10 years, the U.S. has become known for developing many of the top fencers in the world; Coach Carter is honored to be recognized as one of the greatest coaches in U.S. Fencing History by the Museum of American Fencing.