Beginner – We have beginners classes and camps appropriate for ages eight through adult. All you need are closed-toe shoes, flexible clothing, and an open mind and willingness to learn. If you are wondering if your child is too young to start, we have a few rules of thumb: Generally if they can zip a jacket and tie their shoes, it’s a good sign they will be able and ready to participate. Our beginner classes are, above all, fun for all ages. Beginner classes and camps are offered at our Broad Street location, Durham Academy, Voyager Academy (classes only), Cary Academy (camps only) and Duke School (camps only).
Level I – A Level I class continues to introduces the sport of fencing, focusing on sport-specific and general games and coordination activities. All instruction works to build basic development and reinforcement of the skills needed to develop coordination and fencing skills. MSFC membership is not required to participate at this level. Participants often take this class one to three times before continuing onto Level II. Equipment is included.
Level II –Builds on the skills introduced in all Level I classes and camps and begins to focus on technique, timing, and basic fencing tactics. Games and fun are still a large part of the focus at this level. For youth, MSFC membership is not required to participate. A fencer at this level will decide if they want to participate at a recreational or competitive level.
Level II RY (Recreational Youth) – For youth, this class DOES NOT require membership. These are quarterly classes taught by Coach Ned Light. These classes are for youth who like fencing, enjoy the physical activity and challenge it brings, but who DO NOT want to compete locally or within the club environment.
Level II RA (Recreational Adult) – For adults, Level II classes meet year-round and a Basic or Developing MSFC membership is required. These classes are designed to maintain and build skills with a focus on foil and/or sabre fencing with adult peers. Many members happily maintain participation in this class level, compete within the local fencing community, and take lessons. Recreational adults are expected to own and maintain their own equipment and gear.
Level II/Level III – This crossbreed of class may appear similar to Level II, but starts to focus on developing skills specific for competition. Participants at this level will be expected to participate in local tournaments. Participants can sign up for class on a quarterly basis, or become Basic or Developing MSFC members and take this class as a “Membership Class” year-round. Participants are expected begin purchasing their own fencing gear.
Level III – Participants in this level are Developing or Competitive Members. Age, class numbers, and experience will all determine the focus of the class. This class will build and refine fencing skills developed in previous level classes, and reinforce what is happening in individual lessons.
Level IV – Level IV classes work our traveling competitors who are Competitive and Developing members. Individuals who participate with this group have a more individualized, personal training commitment, are expected to attend classes as well as fence during our open fencing times before and/or after class.
Additional Classes for Members
Footwork – Footwork practice, drills, and games for MSFC members of all levels, including both youth and adults. Membership is required, but this class doesn’t count as one of the weekly classes for Basic or Developing members. This class is followed by open fencing.
Strength and Conditioning – A series of workouts designed to develop the speed, strength, and agility needed for fencing at a competitive level. This class is intended for Competitive members. Developing members may take this class as their second weekly class with the permission of the coaching staff only.
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