a sign on the window of a building that says fencing classes for kids for West Coast Fencing Academy in Arcadia California and Orange California close to Irvine California

General FAQ

Saber Fencing

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Unlock the Art of Saber:

Your Questions, Expertly Answered.

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Coach Gherman stone and Coach Mike Kishchenkov posing with two Y12 girls after they won top 8 medals at regional saber fencing tournament in California

WHy Saber ​Fencing?

Saber fencing offers an exhilarating blend of speed, strategy, and ​athleticism, setting it apart from its Olympic counterparts, foil and épée. As ​one of the three fencing disciplines featured in the Olympics, saber stands ​out with its dynamic nature and emphasis on agility and offensive tactics, ​making matches a thrilling spectacle. Not only does it cultivate physical ​fitness, mental acuity, and discipline, but saber fencing also boasts a ​unique camaraderie within its community. It also stands as a beacon of ​inclusivity, welcoming participants of all ages and skill levels. And, for those ​with a busy schedule, there's an added bonus: tournaments tend to wrap ​up quicker than you might expect, thanks to the sport's rapid pace. So, if ​you're looking for an Olympic-worthy endeavor that combines fast action ​with a quick turnaround, saber fencing might just be your perfect match.

Two Boy saber fencers in fencing gear at a local tournament in Southern California on a metal fencing strip

Is Saber Fencing ​Safe?

Saber fencing is not only a thrilling and intellectually stimulating ​sport but also one of the safest options for athletes of all ages. ​A revealing study by the University of Oslo showed it to have ​one of the lowest rates of injury despite its seemingly aggressive ​goal of "stabbing" the opponent. For parents considering ​fencing for their children, these statistics offer peace of mind, ​highlighting the sport's commitment to safety without ​compromising on the excitement and benefits of competition. ​For a deeper dive into the safety statistics and compelling ​reasons why fencing, particularly saber fencing, is an excellent ​choice for young athletes, visit Active and Safe Central. This ​resource offers valuable insights into why it is an ideal sport for ​children looking to embark on an athletic journey.


What is the Best ​Age to Start Saber ​Fencing?

Saber fencing is a timeless sport that welcomes enthusiasts at any stage of life, making it ideal ​for recreational fencers who seek the thrill of the game, regardless of age. Its enduring appeal is ​evidenced by the existence of a Veterans 80 category at the national level, allowing senior ​citizens to continue their passion for fencing. For those with competitive aspirations, starting ​between the ages of 8-12 is considered optimal, as it offers a solid foundation for developing ​skills and tactics necessary for higher levels of competition. However, highly motivated ​individuals who begin fencing later can also achieve significant competitive success, proving ​that dedication and passion can overcome the barriers of a late start.

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a seven year old little girl wearing a fencing mask and holding a sword in her saber fencing private lesson at West Coast Fencing Academy
A group of 8 - 12 year old beginner saber fencers learning footwork holding a saber.
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saber sword used for saber fencing
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What Kind of Equipment Do ​I Need?

Embarking on your saber fencing journey at WCFA requires nothing more ​than your enthusiasm and some basic athletic attire and footwear to get ​started. As a beginner, there's no need to worry about equipment; the ​academy provides all necessary gear, ensuring every piece is thoroughly ​disinfected after use for your safety and comfort. This approach allows new ​fencers to focus on learning and enjoying the sport without the initial ​investment in specialized equipment.


Once you've discovered your passion for saber fencing and decide to ​continue, investing in a personal mask is a great first step. It not only ​ensures a perfect fit but also marks your commitment to the sport. For ​those looking to delve deeper and customize their fencing arsenal, our ​coaches are on hand to offer expert advice on the myriad of brands and ​equipment options available, helping you find the perfect match for your ​needs and preferences. At West Coast Fencing Academy, we're here to ​support your fencing journey every step of the way, from your first lunge to ​your latest victory.

Why Join Our Club?

Joining West Coast Fencing Academy is not just about learning how to ​fence; it's about being part of a legacy crafted by world-class coaches ​adorned with Olympic and World Championship medals. Our coaching ​team brings together almost a century of fencing experience, some honed ​under the tutelage of legends like Christian Bauer. This wealth of experience ​ensures our members receive unparalleled instruction, blending technical ​mastery with the strategic finesse that defines champions. At West Coast ​Fencing Academy, you're not just training; you're being sculpted by the best ​in the world to discover your own potential on the fencing piste.


Yet, despite the accolades and the competitive spirit that pulses through the ​heart of our academy, our coaches are driven by a singular, profound ​passion: to share their love for fencing. They believe in nurturing a ​community where every lunge, parry, and riposte is a step towards not just ​medals and accolades but a lifelong affinity for this noble art. Whether you ​aspire to stand on the podium or simply wish to embrace fencing ​recreationally for the joy it brings, West Coast Fencing Academy is your ​gateway to a world where passion meets excellence, and every encounter ​with the blade enriches your love for the sport.


Have you ever dreamed of mastering the art of saber fencing, just like the ​Olympic champions? At our fencing academy, located right in the heart of ​Orange, California we offer beginner fencing classes that will introduce you ​to the thrilling world of saber fencing. Whether you're looking for a fun way ​to stay fit or aiming to compete at an advanced level, our skilled instructors ​are here to guide you every step of the way. Plus, our fencing classes aren't ​just for kids and teens; we have specially designed programs for adults, ​making it a perfect family-friendly activity. Don't worry about the gear; we ​provide all the fencing equipment you need to get started. Join us at our ​next fencing group class or sign up for private fencing lessons to unlock ​your potential. Dive into the exciting world of fencing and become part of ​our community today!

It's a family at West Coast Fencing Academy where we have a nurturing environment so Coach Artem, Coach Mike and Coach Gherman pose with parents and students.

How many Private ​Lessons should I ​take in a week?

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Determining the ideal number of private lessons per week ​at West Coast Fencing Academy is a highly personalized ​decision tailored to each student's unique goals, schedule, ​and level of commitment. Recognizing the importance of a ​strong foundational skill set, the academy strongly ​recommends that all new students take a 5-private lesson ​starter pack. This will help ensure that newcomers establish ​a solid base in both technique and safety and adapt easier ​to group classes, thereby fostering a positive and ​encouraging initial experience in the sport with focused, ​individualized attention.


Coach Artem having a saber private lesson with a young boy with fencing mask and saber in hand practicing bladework

Beyond the initial starter pack, the frequency of private ​lessons is entirely at the discretion of the student, ​influenced by their aspirations within the sport. ​Recreational fencers might opt for anywhere from no ​additional lessons to a couple of lessons per week, ​depending on their interest and availability. Young ​competitive fencers often benefit from one to two single ​lessons weekly, providing a balance of personalized ​instruction and group training. More dedicated, older ​competitive fencers might engage in up to three double ​lessons a week, catering to the intensive training demands ​of higher levels of competition.

Coach Artem having a private lesson with a young boy who is wearing fencing mask and holding a sword in a fencing lunge in front of the west coast fencing academy flag.

Private ​Lessons

Talk to the Coach

Ultimately, the best course of action is to have a ​detailed discussion with your coach, who can ​offer tailored advice based on an assessment of ​your progress, goals, and how fencing fits into ​your broader life. This personalized guidance ​ensures that each fencer at West Coast Fencing ​Academy finds the perfect balance of training to ​meet their individual needs, whether they're ​fencing for fun, fitness, or fierce competition.

Should I Participate ​in Competitions?

In the world of saber fencing, the journey ​into competition is a personal choice, ​deeply supported by the nurturing ​environment at West Coast Fencing ​Academy. Our philosophy embraces the ​uniqueness of each fencer, understanding ​that while some are drawn to the ​competitive edge of the sport, others find ​joy and fulfillment in recreational fencing. ​This inclusive approach ensures that every ​fencer feels valued and respected, ​regardless of their path.



For those fencers contemplating the ​competitive route, it's reassuring to know ​there's a spectrum of competition levels ​available, from local meets to regional ​events and even national championships. ​This variety ensures fencers can find a ​competitive setting that matches their skill ​level, experience, and comfort. The ​youngest age category recognized by US ​Fencing for competition is Y8, although it's ​more common for fencers to begin ​competing in the Y10 category. This early ​start provides young athletes an invaluable ​opportunity to gain experience, develop ​their skills under pressure, and, most ​importantly, have fun in a supportive and ​structured environment.

If I’m a new ​parent, ​where can ​I start to ​find ​resources ​to help my ​child?

Do Top ​Universities ​Recruit Saber ​Fencers?

The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic ​Association) recognizes fencing as a championship ​sport, with approximately 43 colleges and ​universities across the US sponsoring varsity ​fencing teams that compete in NCAA-sanctioned ​events. These programs are spread across Division ​I, Division II, and Division III, showcasing a ​commitment to fencing at various levels of ​collegiate athletics.

Yale University

Harvard University

Connor Liang Coach Nikolay Kovalev Student at Harvard University

Columbia University

Megan liang Coach Nikolay Kovalev Student at Columbia University

Beyond the varsity level, there are over 100 college fencing clubs ​across the country, providing opportunities for students to engage ​in fencing regardless of their skill level or competitive aspirations. ​These clubs are part of the United States Association of Collegiate ​Fencing Clubs (USACFC), an organization that promotes fencing at ​colleges and universities that do not have NCAA fencing teams. ​The USACFC organizes competitions and events that cater to the ​wide range of experiences and backgrounds found in club fencing, ​from beginners to those with competitive experience.