Group Classes
and
Private Lessons

Our Teen/Adult classes are usually composed of about one quarter teens, and three quarters adults.  You're never too "mature" to begin fencing!

This class explores these historical weapons: katana, a Japanese samurai sword; rapier, the traditional Renaissance dueling sword; and two-handed sword, a Medieval longsword. Practice swords used in class are the shinai, made of bamboo, and foil. Students are introduced to historical swordsmanship based on Asian, Medieval, and Renaissance techniques. By the end of the course, students will understand different styles of swordsmanship used throughout history.

This class offers an expanded study of Renaissance and Medieval swordfighting styles. New techniques are explored allowing students to engage in more independent sparring. The goal is to prepare students for the intermediate level where they may fence other students without close supervision. Students also are introduced to the Olympic Sport program

Spring Break Camps — March 21–25, 2005

Olympic Sport Fencing: Foil, Sabre, Epee
9 years and above
Tuition: $145

Fencing is an Olympic sport, beneficial for students of all athletic abilities. Often called the physical game of chess, it improves coordination, balance, grace, and quick reflexes. This course primarily uses the Foil (a light thrusting sword), but also introduces the Sabre (the modern equivalent of the cavalry sword), and the Epee (the modern equivalent of the rapier). Students use safety tipped swords, protective jackets, masks, and a glove. Equipment fee of $29 is payable to VAF on the first day. Sign up for both Olympic Sport and Historical Swordsmanship camps within the same week and save $29 (one free equipment rental). There will be a supervised lunch break between camps (lunch is not provided).

Historical Swordsmanship: Rapier, Two-Handed Sword, Katana
9 years and above
Tuition: $145

Based on Renaissance, Medieval, and Eastern techniques, the swordfighting disciplines explored are the Rapier (the traditional dueling sword), the Two-handed sword (the knightly European medieval sword), and the Katana (a Japanese single-edged sword). Practice swords used in class are the shinai (made of bamboo) and the foil. Students use protective jackets, masks, and a pair of gloves. Equipment fee of $29 is payable to VAF on the first day. Sign up for both Olympic Sport and Historical Swordsmanship camps within the same week and save $29 (one free equipment rental). There will be a supervised lunch break between camps (lunch is not provided).

Summer Camps — June – August, 2005

Intermediate
and
Advanced Levels

Membership is also available for a nominal monthly fee. For those taking group or private lessons, membership is reduced to $20 per month. Volume and family discounts are offered.

Description of Intermediate Fencing Programs

VAF has a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of different types of fencers. While classes provide the basis for continuing training, members also are encouraged to fence outside of class, especially taking advantage of our Supervised Free Fencing sessions.

Recreational Program - for those who enjoy the mental and physical challenge of fencing, making new friends, and setting personal goals.

Recreational/Electric Program - a more rigorous workout with the added component of competition with classmates. Students learn the techniques of fencing using electric scoring equipment. You may be interested in club or state competitions, and this program will prepare you for them. Your own basic electric equipment is required for class.

Competitive Program - a serious approach to conditioning, refining skills, and competing on state and national levels. There are additional requirements for this training program that can be discussed with your coach.

Stay on any of these levels for as long as you like, or use them as steps to the next level. You and your coach can plan a satisfying training program that will provide you with just the right amount of challenge and enjoyment.