KNOXVILLE - The World's Largest Collegiate Fencing Tournament is coming to Knoxville in the spring of 2014.

The United States Association of Collegiate Fencing Clubs (USACFC) expects approximately 700 fencers to compete in the spring championships in April 2014 at the Knoxville Convention Center.

The teams endure two days of grueling competition in sabre, foil and épée, as the overall team champions are determined by the results of the three squad events.

Joshua L. Mertz of the Smoky Mountain Fencing Club said, "One of the missions of the USACFC is to grow the sport of fencing, and holding the Championships in Knoxville may serve as a catalyst to increase interest in the few fencing clubs in the area."

The event is free to the public and will take place on April 5-6, 2014 at the Knoxville Convention Center.