Academy of Fencing Masters Blog

It happened during a seemingly ordinary practice session. I overheard a conversation between one of our teenage fencers and their coach. They weren't discussing technique or competition strategy – they were talking about school troubles, friend dynamics, and the weight of expectations. The teenager spoke with an openness I rarely saw them display with their parents, and the coach listened with that unique blend of attention and understanding that comes from years of working with young...

One of the most common misconceptions I encounter when working with new fencing families is the belief that athletic development follows the same rules as academic preparation. Parents and young fencers often approach training with a mindset carried over from their school experiences – the idea that you can achieve success through intense, last-minute preparation. We've all been there. The night before a big exam, fueled by coffee and determination, cramming every formula, date, and concept...

As we approach 2025, parents are constantly searching for activities that will truly enrich their children's lives. Fencing stands out as an exceptional choice that offers unique benefits you simply won't find in other sports. Here are the top 25 reasons to get your child start fencing, arranged from the most impactful to the supplementary benefits. 1. Character Development After coaching countless young fencers and watching my own children grow in the sport, I can say without hesitation that...

Parents have a huge vested interest in their children's success. After all, this is most parents' life mission - to prepare children for life and help them become successful. We try hard in every possible aspect of life - from studies to extracurricular activities, social circles, exposure, vacations, you name it. Sport is particularly one such aspect. In school sports, we rely a lot on school staff and coaches to guide our children, but once it comes to private club sports, such as fencing, a...