Now Two locations
Los Gatos
Pleasanton
Sportsmanship
Teamwork
Integrity
About Our Fencing Programs
Success never comes to those who quit and our goal is to help you reach yours. Engarde, Allez!
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 levels:
Level 1: Lil' Pirates
Little Pirates is our introductory course for children ages 5 and 6. This course focuses on movement and the fundamentals of fencing. (Agility, Balance, and Coordination) Your new fencers will utilize plastic weapons in a welcoming, safe environment. So that our young pirates will want to return and continue learning, we maintain a fun and interesting environment. 7-year-olds may enroll in our beginning program.
For new fencers ages 7+. The beginning program meets once a week. In this program, your new fencer will have the opportunity to learn basic footwork, blade work, and most importantly, bouting skills. They will fence with their teammates and learn to develop a winning strategy. We impress upon our athletes the value of sportsmanship, hard work, and resiliency.
We will initially provide all the equipment necessary, please refer to our parents resources page regarding the purchasing of your own fencing gear.
We recommend scheduling at least 1 private lesson per week.
Level 2: Beginning Fencing
Once your fencer is ready, your coach will inform you that you are ready for Intermediate Class. If you come to BAFC with previous experience you are more than welcome to join intermediate 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 electric and gear will need to be purchased by participants.
Most fencers will continue in the intermediate class until invited to our competitive program. A US Fencing competitive membership will be required if your child desires to compete. We recommend scheduling at least 1 to 2 private lessons per week.
If you believe your fencer is at this level already, please click here
Level 3: Intermediate Fencing
Level 4: Competitive & Elite
Training in the competitive/elite program includes intense footwork, blade work, and bouting. We introduce supplemental conditioning. We recommend taking at least 2 - 4 private lessons a week. This program meets 4 days per week. This program will help push your fencer to the next level and prepare for competing at state, national, and international levels.
You will have the opportunity to represent the club at local competitions and compete against other clubs in the area and across the USA. You will need to have a competitive USA Fencing Membership if you wish to compete.
If you believe your fencer is at this level already, please click here
Equipment Required for Classes
Lil' Pirates and Beginning Program
No equipment is required besides long pants and closed toe shoes to begin fencing at BAFC. Once you have been fencing for a month or so, we suggest the following:
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Fencing Mask
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Glove
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Jacket
Pre-Intermediate and Intermediate Program
Upon entry into these program, parents should purchase the following items:
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Fencing Mask - weapon specific
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Fencing Glove - weapon specific
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Jacket
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Lame (Electric jacket/vest for Sabre/Foil)
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Underarm Protector
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Knickers (Fencing Pants)
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Body Cords (2 prong)
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Mask Cords
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Weapon (purchase 1-2)
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Long socks
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Chest Protector (chest guard for females).
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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.
There is a tutorial about how to purchase equipment under Parent Resource Page
You can find equipment at the following links:
Hope this helps: Please reach out to your coach with any questions.