Omaha Fencing Club FAQ
- Do I need a US Fencing membership to take part in classes?
- Yes, all fencers must have a US Fencing membership for safety and insurance purposes. US Fencing offers a non-competitive membership for $15 a year.
- How old do I need to be to fence?
- We offers classes to anyone 10 years old and up.
- Are multiple class discount offered?
- We offer an annual membership for $220, additional family members may be added at a 50% discount ($110.00). Annual members receive unlimited classes throughout the year starting August 1 ending July 31.
- What weapon styles are taught?
- Beginner classes are structured to teach the basic skills for all 3 Olympic fencing styles (Foil, Epee and Sabre)
- Once a student graduates to the intermediate level classes, they can choose to enroll in either the Epee or Foil intermediate classes. We currently do not offer Sabre classes at this time due to space and time restrictions.
- Do I need to purchase equipment?
- We have a supply of equipment that students may use during classes. Uniforms are numbered and assigned to an individual student for the length of the class. Students are encouraged to purchase their own equipment as they progress to the intermediate level.
- While there are no local physical stores that provide fencing gear, there are many reputable online retailers. Your coaches recommend starting with one of the following:
- Are private (1-on-1) lessons offered?
- Coaches are available for private lessons on a per-coach basis. Please e-mail the coach directly to discuss availability and cost.
- How long should a fencer take lessons before competing?
- It is recommended that fencers at minimum complete the beginner's class once to have a full understanding of the rules before signing up for a competition.
- OFC holds a Novice tournament every year geared towards new fencers. More Info
- What is required for competition?
- Fencers are required to take at least 2 blades and 2 body cords for the weapons they are competing in. A jacket, plastron, knickers, weapon-appropriate mask are also required. Club gear may be loaned out to fencers who do not have everything, speak with a coach for more information.
- Where do I find out about competitions?
- What should a fencer practice at home?
- Basic footwork drills such as advance, lunge and retreats can be practiced in the home. Fencers should also practice holding the En Garde stance for different lengths of time in front of a mirror to allow themselves to see their arm position.
- How does a fencer graduate to Intermediate classes?
- Fencers are moved to intermediate when a Coach has judged they have mastered the basic skill level. Although every fencer is different it is recommended that new fencers complete the beginner’s class twice before expecting to have developed the skills needed for Intermediate.
Useful links and additional resources
- https://www.usafencing.org - US Fencing is the governing body for Olympic fencing in the country. You can find all necessary resources for Regional and National level tournaments, as well as official rules for all events.
- https://www.reddit.com/r/fencing - Reddit forum dedicated to Olympic Fencing