Classes and Fees
At the Center. fencing instruction and training is available at all levels in all three weapons, foil, epee, and saber. However, beginners will start with the basic weapon which is the foil. If you have never fenced before, there are two ways that you will enter the regular classes:
The General Foil program is a comprehensive program that trains the student to a good intermediate level. Most fencers will stay in this program for at least a year, depending on how many times a week they attend and how quickly they learn. It is possible that some students will feel comfortable at this level and will not wish to progress. There is no problem with this decision.
When a student can demonstrate proficiency in the skills taught at the General Foil level, (footwork, bladework, and bouting), he or she is ready to move to the Advanced Competitive level. This is the highest level of training. It is at this level that competitive skills are taught.
Fundamentals of Fencing
This is a basic introduction to the sport of fencing. The student will be taught the history of the sport and its traditions. Fencing etiquette will not only be taught, but also insisted upon. Safety rules will be taught and enforced. All necessary equipment will be supplied.
The students will be taught the basic footwork of fencing. This will include, saluting, on guard, advance, retreat, lunge, etc. The student will be given exercises in order to perfect these movements. Along with the footwork drills, the student will be taught the proper methods for holding a weapon and blade techniques for defense and making attacks. Finally, the student will be taught the rules of fencing pertaining to individual practice and competitive bouts. At the end of this course, the fencer will have a good understanding of the sport and will be ready to continue with more serious study.
The course will be taught either on a Tuesday or a Thursday. A new course will be started whenever there is a request by at least six beginners.
Beginner Private Lessons
Because fencing is not a popular sport in Alabama it is difficult to get enough students for a class. There are always problems with times and days. To address this problem we offer private lessons for beginners to get them ready for the general sessions.
For individuals we offer four private lessons for $80. After completing the lessons the student will have the knowledge to join the main general sessions. The lessons will consist of 20 minutes to 1/2 hour of fencing with the coach.
For students who want to train with a friend or relative, we offer five private lessons for $150 total. After completing the lessons the student will have the knowledge to join the main general sessions. The lessons will consist of 1/2 to one hour with the coach.
General Foil Program
After completing the Fundamentals of Fencing course or four private lessons with Mr. Bosco, the student will be enrolled in the General Foil Program. This program will be run continuously and teach the basics of the sport in great detail. The object of this program will be to bring the student to a firm intermediate level of proficiency. The student will be required to purchase a full set of equipment within the first few months.
When the student is ready to begin competitive training, testing will be administered with the instructor's recommendation. It will normally take a student over a year before he or she is ready to pass a set of two tests. The length of time will depend on the student’s dedication and the number of times a week of training. As a final requirement, the student must demonstrate the use of his or her fencing skills under bout conditions.
Advanced/Competitor Program
This program is only open to those fencers who have successfully advanced from the General Foil program and are interested in continuing training at a high level. The program will concentrate on the most advanced fencing skills and techniques. The training will include tactics and competition. Only serious students will be admitted into this program. At this level, the student will be required to pass two tests, join the USFA, and enter at least one competition a season.
Homeschool Activity
Homeschool students sometimes have trouble meeting their physical education requirements. They are also always interested in new educational experiences. To meet these needs and to make use of the salle during the day, a homeschool fencing activity has been established. The purpose of this activity is to allow homeschoolers to take part in the sport of fencing at a flexible schedule. Beginner students are accepted at any time. Students sign up at a monthly basis and can stop and start attending as their schedule allows. While fencing will be taught at a serioius level, there will be a greater emphasis on having fun.
Private Lessons
For those students who wish to advance more rapidly or desire individual attention, private lessons are available by appointment. The lessons will consist of a private session with Mr. Bosco or Assistant Coach Bryant Finney for 20 to 30 minutes. The value of individual lessons is that the training is specifically tailored to the skills of the student. If the student intends to compete seriously, individual lessons are very important. Competitors will be given priority with lesson schedules.
Fees