Fencing Programs at SDFC
From first-time beginners to competitive tournament fencers, our programs focus on fundamental footwork, blade safety, tactical thinking, and sportsmanship.
Youth Fencing
A structured introduction to fencing that develops athletic coordination, concentration, and sportsmanship. Students learn foundational footwork, blade safety, and basic tactical decision-making in an encouraging environment.
- Who it is for: Children ages 8 to 12.
- What happens: Footwork exercises, blade mechanics, coordination games, and supervised electric strip bouting.
- Experience required: None. Equipment is provided for introductory classes.
- Schedule: Cohorts meet two afternoons per week (4:00 PM – 5:30 PM).
Teen Pathway
Designed specifically for middle and high school students. Whether you are discovering fencing for the first time or aiming for varsity competition and NCAA college recruitment, our coaches provide individualized weapon tracks in foil and épée.
- Who it is for: Teens ages 13 to 17 of all experience levels.
- What happens: High-tempo footwork, tactical strip bouting, video analysis, and tournament preparation.
- Experience required: Beginners welcome; starter gear provided for introductory sessions.
- Pathway: Rapid transition from fundamentals to intermediate/advanced strip bouts and NCAA guidance.
Adult Fencing ("Fit Fencing")
An active evening program for adults wanting to learn fencing recreationally. Instruction focuses on épée—the most intuitive Olympic weapon—combining conditioning with strategic bouting.
- Who it is for: Adults of all fitness levels looking for an engaging non-collision sport.
- What happens: Group warm-ups, stance and footwork drills, blade distance control, and friendly practice bouts.
- Experience required: None. Introductory gear is provided.
- Schedule: Meets Monday & Wednesday evenings from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM.
Competitive Training
Structured coaching for athletes who choose to test their skills in competition. Instruction is led by Master Coach Juan Ignacio Calderón (UCSD Varsity Head Coach) and Olympian Saul Mendoza.
- Who it is for: Fencers preparing for local, regional, national, or collegiate NCAA circuits.
- What happens: Tactical situational bouting, video review, weapon-specific conditioning, and private lessons.
- Experience required: Completion of beginner/intermediate curriculum or coach assessment.
- Next step: Speak with coaching staff to outline a training plan.
Open Fencing & Bout Practice
Self-directed bout practice on regulation electric pistes. Open bouting allows fencers to apply class instruction against varied opponents and styles.
- Who it is for: Club members, visiting competitive fencers, and UC San Diego undergrads.
- What happens: Open electric bouting with digital scoring boxes during designated weapon hours.
- Visiting Fencers: Visiting fencers are welcome. Contact SDFC for current open-fencing availability and drop-in information.
- Schedule: Mon/Wed/Fri 6:00–9:00 PM (Foil), Tue/Thu 6:00–9:00 PM (Épée), Sat 11:30 AM–1:00 PM.
Seasonal Fencing Camps
Camps and special youth programs may be offered seasonally during winter and summer school breaks. Contact SDFC for current availability, dates and pricing.
- Who it is for: Youth discovering fencing during school holiday breaks.
- What happens: Group agility games, footwork mechanics, blade coordination, and supervised mini-bouts.
- Experience required: None. Equipment is provided for introductory camp sessions. Campers wear sneakers and athletic sweatpants.
- Next step: Contact SDFC for upcoming seasonal camp dates, availability, and registration.
Seasonal Youth Programs
Our holiday and summer camps provide a fun, immersive fencing experience for beginners. Campers learn the rules, wear the gear, score touches, and make lasting friendships.