Frequently asked questions

+ Do I need any fencing experience?

No, the club is open to everyone regardless of fencing experience. We have fencers that have competed on national teams, and fencers who started last week. Whether you are a seasoned fencer wishing to fine tune your skills or have never held a weapon before, you're welcome to come join us!

+ Does the club offer classes for beginners?

Yes! We have two different 'learn to fence' classes, one targeted towards adults, and one for fencers aged 11 to 15ish.

+ What should I wear?

Students in fencing classes should wear comfortable athletic clothing. A short-sleeved T-shirt will help you keep cool. Long trousers such as sweat pants or athletic warmups are required for safety reasons, though shorts are fine for warm-up games and footwork. Jeans are more difficult to move in, and are not recommended.

Clean athletic shoes with non-marking soles are required. Shoes should lace or fasten securely. Sandals, winter boots, and slip-on style “athletic” shoes don’t provide enough support or traction for fencing, and can be dangerous.

Necklaces and rings should be removed before.

+ I am no longer a teenager. Will I fit in with your programs?

Yes! Our fencers range from 10 years old to... 'somewhat older than 25'. The composition of different classes changes over time, but we have a broad range of ages / skills / abilities, and strive for an inclusive and welcoming environment. If you have any concerns, please talk to one of the coaches, or better than that drop in and try a class!

+ Where can I find membership forms?

You can find the youth membership form here and the adult membership form here.

+ Do I need my own equipment?

The club provides all specialised equipment for students in our youth and learn to fence programs (see 'What should I wear'). Students in our other programs are expected to have their own equipment.

+ Where can i buy equipment?

You can find information about purchasing your own equipment on this page.

+ It's the middle of the year, can I still join?

Definitely. If you're interested in fencing, we'll be glad to have you. We have entry points at the start of each month, as long as we have space!

+ Does fencing hurt?

Not really. You may suffer the occasional scrape or bruise, but they generally heal quickly.

+ How do I join one of the competitive programs?

All of our competitive programs are 'by invitation only'. If you are interested, please talk to your coach. They will also contact you if they think it might be a good fit for you. Not all students in our 'competitive programs' actually attend competitions (yet).

+ Are individual (private) lessons available?

Individual lessons are arranged through the Head Coach. Please see the fees page for pricing information. Note that there is a waiting list for lessons. Please talk to your coach to see if your child is ready, if this is of interest.

+ When should my child start competing?

If your child is interested in attending a competition, please talk to your coach.

+ How do we find out about competitions?

The Ontario Fencing Association maintains a calendar of events. Many competitions are also listed on AskFRED.

+ What type of training do the coaches have?

All of our coaches are NCCP trained, and have additional training as well.

+ What is the ratio of coaches to students?

We strive for a ratio of one coach or instructor to every 5 - 6 students.

+ Do you offer summer camps?

Some years we will offer summer camps, but that is subject to coach availability. If you'd like information about camps that might be suitable, please talk to one of your coaches.