Frequently asked Questions
General questions
What is Fencing?
Fencing is the Olympic sport of "swordplay." It is one of only five sports that have remained on the official Olympic schedule since the inception of the first modern Olympics in Athens in 1896.
Is it dangerous?
No, fencing is a very safe sport. You might get poked a little harder than you like, but it doesn't really hurt, and fencers also wear protective gear and clothing.
What age?
The Academy offers programming for children starting at age 6. Our oldest student is 72! Fencing is a great way to stay active and healthy.
I'm not really athletic. Do I need prior experience or a certain body type?
No, fencing is for everyone, and the Academy welcomes all.
Do I need equipment?
Beginner recreation students do not require equipment at this level. Intermediate and competitive-level students require a personal set of fencing equipment for in-class instruction and tournament competition.
classes & membership
Can I try a class before committing?
Trial classes are subject to availability and space in the class and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis—one trial class per student.
To secure a spot in the trial class, a nonrefundable fee of $35 is required. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with processing the trial class registration. If the prospective student decides to enroll in regular classes within one week of the trial class, the fee will be deducted from the total tuition.
How do I join?
You can typically sign-up on the Academy website or by contacting us with any questions regarding programming and fees.
What are the benefits of joining the Academy?
We're not your average fencing club. The programming we offer is specifically designed to meet the needs of our communities. Each program is curated to address the individual needs of every student. We believe that providing students access to social-emotional learning helps them build resilience and makes them feel valued, important, and safe.