Most American sports, such as football, basketball, soccer, and volleyball are experienced in a group session. It’s rare to see a student participate in one-on-one coaching. Unless they are going to a very competitive level, the need for private lessons is mostly unnecessary.
However, in more individualized sports, such as tennis, ice skating, or golf, the need for a private instruction is essential, especially when a sport becomes more of the focus. Because of this private coaching can make the difference between a good athlete, and a top rated one.
As an individualized sport, fencing is no different. The importance of knowing the precise technique can mean the difference between progressing or not, and of course between placing highly in competition, or not placing at all. And with kids especially, progress means more joy from the sport, a desire to continue and a personal commitment to improve.