Leslie Taft is an inspirational fencing coach who has been a part of the sport for over forty years. She started her career at Cal State Los Angeles in 1976, competing on the women's foil and epee teams. Following her graduation, she joined the Los Angeles Athletic Club to continue her fencing pursuits. In 1984, Leslie moved to the desert and began teaching fencing classes at College of the Desert in 1986. She had a dream of leading a successful fencing team, and in 1990, Leslie was able to turn her vision into reality when she created the C.O.D fencing team. The team has since gone on to compete in foil, sabre and epee and has earned many accolades. Leslie Taft is an inspiring example of what can be accomplished when you follow your dreams. She has been a part of the fencing world for more than four decades, and her legacy of teaching and coaching lives on in all of her students. Her passion and dedication to the sport of fencing has left a lasting impact on the lives of so many.