You have several choices for learning how to fence, or improving your skills:
Beginner Classes
LaSalle offers several beginner courses, typically 10-14 weeks in
length each. New fencers are taught the basics of footwork and distance
control, offense, defence, and the fundamentals of scoring and
refereeing. Simple bouting is introduced about halfway through each
course, and students will have enough knowledge by the end of the
course to participate in electric fencing bouts. After completing the
beginner course, students may continue with the intermediate program
(below). All necessary equipment is provided. Costs vary (typically
$80-95) depending on the number of weeks offered. Phone the
numbers given for information and registration.
- Adult and Teen
- Classes are held Tuesday nights; register through
the Britannia Community Centre (718-5800).
- Children (ages 8-14)
- Classes are held Saturday mornings; register through
the Britannia Community Centre (718-5800).
Intermediate Classes
LaSalle runs a continuous Intermediate Fencing class on Monday nights,
open to all club members and drop-in participants. There is an
ongoing rotation of drills and lessons to hone the fencer's skills and
prepare them for competitive bouting. Some new techniques are
taught, but lessons also focus on the finer points of the foundation
skill set, working out bad habits and common problems, and development
of speed, control, and accuracy. Cost: included with regular club
membership.
Private Lessons
LaSalle offers private lessons to club members throughout the
week. Private lessons are typically 20 minutes in length, and
involve intensive training in the specific areas that the student
requires. They are a standard form of coaching and training for
competitive fencers, but are also used to teach introductory and
intermediate skills to fencers who cannot attend the regular classes,
or who want an introduction to the other weapons. Private lessons
are available to all club members on Saturdays at no extra cost
(first-come, first-served), and paid lessons are otherwise available
throughout the week.
Club Programs
Club programs are open to any fencer, regardless of age or
experience, who can follow a more self-directed training regimen.
The
club meets five times per week, with a mix of open fencing and group training in each practice session.
In addition to the coaching noted above, open fencing occurs at each practice, especially after the group
training winds down and the floor opens up. During open fencing
times, the training strips are available for free fencing with any like
minded fencers. Full electric scoring systems are available for
fencers with electric fencing gear.
The club has fencing equipment available for new fencers, and for
regular members who forget something at home, or break something during
training.
