The Bay Area Fencing Club is committed to the growth and development of young people through the sport of Fencing. We recognize the importance of fostering excellence in our athletes on and off the strip, supporting the whole athlete; academically, socially, and athletically. Through teaching the values of integrity, sportsmanship, and resilience, we strive for excellence both individually and as a team.
Our program is divided into two parts:
Pre-Competitive
Competitive
Pre-Competitive Program
Lil’ Pirates
"Little Pirates" is our introductory course designed for children aged 5 and 6. The course emphasizes movement and the fundamentals of fencing, namely agility, balance, and coordination.
Young participants will use plastic weapons, ensuring a welcoming and safe environment to foster their interest in returning and continuing to learn. We strive to maintain a fun and engaging atmosphere. Additionally, 7-year-olds can enroll in our beginner program.
Beginning
Our program is designed for new fencers aged 7 and up. It meets once a week, offering learners the chance to master basic footwork, blade work, and, most importantly, bouting skills. Participants will get to fence with their teammates, learning how to develop winning strategies. We emphasize the importance of sportsmanship, hard work, and resilience.
Initially, we'll provide all the necessary equipment. For information about purchasing your own fencing gear, please refer to our parent resources page.
We advise scheduling at least one private lesson per week.
Competitive Program
Intermediate
Once your fencer is ready, the coach will inform you that they are prepared for the Intermediate Class. If you join BAFC with previous experience, you're welcome to join the intermediate level after an evaluation.
The Intermediate Program meets twice a week. In this program, your fencer will train with their teammates and learn to develop a winning strategy. We will be fencing electrically, and participants will need to purchase gear.
Fencers typically remain in the intermediate class until they are invited to our competitive program. If your child wishes to compete, a US Fencing competitive membership will be required. We recommend scheduling at least one to two private lessons per week.
If you believe your fencer is already at this level, please click here.
Competitive and Elite
The competitive/elite program includes intense footwork, blade work, and bouting, supplemented with additional conditioning. We advise taking 2 - 4 private lessons weekly. This program meets four days a week and aims to elevate your fencer to the next level, preparing them for state, national, and international competitions.
Joining this program also lets you represent the club at local competitions, competing against other clubs locally and nationwide. To compete, a competitive USA Fencing Membership is necessary.
If you think your fencer is ready for this level, please click here.
Equipment Required for Classes
Lil' Pirates and Beginning Program
To start fencing at BAFC, all you need are long pants and closed-toe shoes. After a month or so of fencing, we recommend acquiring the following equipment:
- Fencing Mask
- Glove
- Jacket
Pre-Intermediate and Intermediate Program
Upon entry into these programs, parents should purchase the following items:
- Fencing Mask - weapon specific
- Fencing Glove - weapon specific
- Jacket
- Lame (Electric jacket/vest for Sabre/Foil)
- Underarm Protector
- Knickers (Fencing Pants)
- Body Cords (2 prong)
- Mask Cords
- Weapon (purchase 1-2)
- Long socks
- Chest Protector (chest guard for females).
- Fencing Bag - optional
We realize that purchasing fencing equipment is a difficult task to undertake. This is true for both new parents and experienced fencers. If you have any questions, please consult a member of the BAFC staff before purchasing equipment to ensure the size and style requirements are met for your fencer.
Generally, don’t go overboard. Your children will grow into their fencing gear, and outgrow it before you know it.
You can find equipment at the following links:
Hope this helps:Â Please reach out to your coach with any questions.