Academy
Of Fencing Masters
ART OF FENCING, ART OF LIFE
It’s Not Just About Winning
Welcome to the Academy of Fencing Masters (AFM), one of the country’s largest and best fencing clubs specializing in epee fencing. We’re dedicated to nurturing and inspiring fencers of all levels, from beginners to elite athletes. With vibrant locations in Campbell and Sunnyvale, CA, we offer a tailored fencing program to every student. AFM is the only US fencing club to win the USA Fencing Club of Excellence Award astonishing four times in 2016, 2021, 2022, and 2023, and the only fencing club in the country to be recognized by the US Congress with their Special Congressional Recognition Award for our contribution in development of the sport of fencing.
AFM is home to the Olympic and World Medalists, USA champions, national team members, and World Cup medalists. Our world-class coaching team, led by Italian National Coach Carmine Carpenito, includes five Olympians, four World Champions, and International fencing stars, making us a unique club with so many world-class fencing stars on one team! Welcome to AFM, where fencers develop their life values and hone their character, where the dreams take flight and the champions are forged.
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Introduction to Fencing
Benefits of Fencing
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Program Overview
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policies
Awards and Results
Welcome to AFM
a place where we celebrate the validation of the dedicated work of our fencers, families, and coaches across more than a decade. While we pursue excellence relentlessly, we know for certain that the reward is always in the satisfaction of the journey. It is of course gratifying for our community to be recognized at the highest levels, and for that we are greatly honored.
Our commitment to fostering top-tier athletes and exceptional individuals has garnered prestigious recognition over the last 11 years. We’ve been recognized for our contribution to the sport’s development, and our accolades mirror the dedication and achievements of our fencers and coaching staff.
Leehi Machiulsky, with her coach Zhanna Bikkina by her side, won the Bronze medal in the 2024 Junior World Championships in Saudi Arabia
Daniel Chirashnya, became a USA Champion in Youth 14 Men’s Epee. 2023 USA Fencing National Championships & July Challenge (Summer Nationals)
Two national medalists in Youth 10ME, March NAC 2024 – Max Ding and Evan Tubaltzev with their coach Carmine Carpenito
Veterans WE Team, gold medal: Haejung Hofman, Kira Hansen, Heidi Chang. 2023 USA Fencing National Championships & July Challenge
Vet WE Team Gold SN
Suzanne Bloomer, National medalist in Veterans WE 50, 2023 USA Fencing National Championships & July Challenge
Sergey Schindler won the Bronze medal in Veteran ME 60, 2023 USA Fencing National Championships & July Challenge – with coach Slava Novoselov
Kai Anderson, national medalist in Div III, Summer Nationals 2023 – with coach Carmine Carpenito
Daniel Chirashnya, Bronze medalist in Cadet ME, November NAC 2023 – with his coach Carmine Carpenito
Senior Men’s Epee Team – Gold medal in the 2023 USA Fencing National Championships & July Challenge (Summer Nationals). Sergey Bida, Ben Kim, Daniel Chirashnya, Adam Chirashnya
Academy of Fencing Masters Blog
Art of Fencing, Art of Life
Coaches to Have a Voice in National Event Scheduling – A Big Win!
We're thrilled to share an important update regarding the national event scheduling process. After months of efforts, we've achieved a significant milestone – coaches will now have representation in the event scheduling group! It all started at the end of February...
A Resident Guide to the Greater Columbus, Ohio
When Christine, mom of our fencer Tessa, learned that the 2024 Fencing Summer Nationals would take place in Columbus, she shared the news with her friend who resides in the area. Excited to help Christine and her family make the most of their time in Columbus, her...
Why Your New Rating Isn’t Updated in USA Fencing Yet?
You’re at a fencing competition and you’ve had an amazing day. After training really hard, you are just sweeping the floor with your opponents, gliding through the pools and blasting your way through the DE. It’s been an incredible day, and you’re so excited about the...
Join our Family
Welcome to Academy of Fencing Masters, where the art of fencing meets the art of life.
Are you ready to experience the thrill of swordplay, the excitement of graceful footwork, and the exhilaration of competition? Look no further! Our fencing classes cater to all ages and skill levels, whether you’re a kid who’s been begging your parents to let them hold a sword, a serious fencer with experience who’s ready to take their competition skill to the highest level, or an adult who wants to jump into a new hobby.
AFM is more than just a place to learn fencing – we’re a family club that prides itself on building a strong community.
Why Choose Us?
- Expert Instruction: Our team of world-class coaches brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for fencing, giving every student personalized guidance and instruction.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Train in our top-notch facilities that offer a clean, organized, and dynamic learning environment.
- Friendly Community: Join a vibrant community of fencers and fencing families, where camaraderie and mutual support thrive, creating lasting friendships beyond the piste.
Ready to Enroll?
Signing up for our fencing classes is simple. Just click below to join the AFM community. Experience the excitement of fencing and unleash your potential with our supportive staff and expert coaches.
Join Academy of Fencing Masters today and embark on an incredible journey of skill, strategy, and camaraderie!
AFM Team
Irina Chirashnya
CEO
Igor Chirashnya
Program Director
Carmine Carpenito
Head Coach
Sergey Bida
Coach
Zhanna Bikkina
Coach
Gregory Bremel
Coach
Sergei Rassolko
Coach
Alexander Maximovich
Coach
Natasha Maximovich
Coach
Vivien Maya
Coach
Slava Novoselov
Coach
