WESTCHESTER FENCING CLUB

Frequently asked questions

 

ABOUT FENCING

 

What is fencing?

Fencing is a mentally challenging as well as physically athletic sport.  Unlike the wild bouts you see on films, the art of competitive fencing is methodically controlled.  The rules of the sport require two fencers to compete in a 6 x 40 feet strip.  The idea is not to strike your opponent with your sword, but rather to “touch” him/her in the targeted areas.  The movements are so swift that the touches must be scored electrically.

 

Is fencing safe?

Yes.  The risk of injury is very low in fencing, especially compared to other sports such as soccer, football, and lacrosse.  Our students are instructed on the proper respect and handling of the equipment and protective gear.  We also emphasize the importance of stretching before fencing.

 

Is fencing hard?

No.  It is very easy to get the hang of it.  Like any sport, it requires practice to improve your skills.  However, it is a physical sport so you can expect to get a good workout.

 

What are the different types of fencing?

Foil, epee and sabre are the three weapons used in the sport of fencing.  Foil and epee are point-thrusting weapons.  Sabre is a point-thrusting as well as a cutting weapon.  The target areas differ for the three weapons, though all three are scored electronically.

 

How do I know which type of fencing lessons to sign up for?

Beginners are required to take Foil lessons before moving on to Epee.  Sabre is for advanced members only.  Mr. Moss will help you decide which type of fencing will be best for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WESTCHESTER FENCING CLUB

Frequently asked questions

 

ABOUT THE CLUB

 

 

What is the Westchester Fencing Club?

The Westchester Fencing Club (WFC) is a growing parent/community based program that promotes youth and adult sport fencing.  The club works closely with other area clubs to provide the beginning and advanced fencer with lots of fencing opportunities and instruction.  It was first started in 2001 by Mr. Moss and a small group of students at Westchester Academy for International Studies (WAIS).  Over the years the club has welcomed over 65 participants and continues to welcome anyone from the community.

 

Is the WFC a school sponsored program?

No.  Although the WFC uses the facilities at the Westchester and Wilchester schools, we are not a school sponsored program.  The WFC is a parent/community based program that is dependent on fundraising and donations to provide equipment and gear for its members.

 

Who teaches the fencing class?

Mr. Stephen Moss teaches regular and advanced placement U.S. History at Westchester Academy.  He has been fencing for over 3 years and is very excited about the sport.  He volunteers his time to provide a forum for children and adults in our community, so that they may learn the art and science of fencing with as little restrictions as possible.  In 2003, Mr. Adrain Turney began helping Mr. Moss teach the foil classes.  Mr. Turney is a retired oil engineer who has world travel experience fencing in many parts of Europe and Southeast Asia.  He enjoys giving back to his community by working with our students.

 

Who can join the club?

Anyone in our community who wants to learn about this exciting sport is welcome.

 

How old do you have to be to join?

You are never too young to be a fencer.  However, 12 years old (6th grade) is the youngest age our club is equipped to teach.  Mr. Moss can guide you to a local club that teaches younger children if you are interested.

 

Does the club participate in area tournaments?

Yes.  Westchester fencers began competitive fencing in the fall of 2003, and have participated in over 20 competitions, in which we have won 15 medals.  For this and for establishing cooperative relationships with other area clubs, the WFC is now recognized by the USFA as a full member of its Gulf Coast Division.

 

Are members required to participate in tournaments?

No.   However, fencing is a competitive sport and tournaments are a great growth and learning opportunity for our club members.  Therefore, we encourage members to participate in these competitions if and when at all possible.

 

 

WESTCHESTER FENCING CLUB

Frequently asked questions

 

ABOUT THE CLASSES

 

 

When and where are the fencing classes held?

 

            Monday           - Foil                            Westchester Dining Hall            (3:30pm – 5:00pm)

            Tuesday           - Epee                          Wilchester Gymnasium  (3:30pm – 5:00pm)

            Wednesday      - Foil                            Wilchester Gymnasium  (3:30pm – 5:00pm)

            Thursday          - No class                               

            Friday             - Epee/Sabre                Wilchester Gymnasium  (3:30pm – 5:00pm)

 

 

How do we know which class to sign up for?

Beginners are required to take Foil lessons before moving on to Epee.  Sabre is for advanced members only.  Mr. Moss will help you decide which type of fencing is best for you.

 

Do you have to attend every class?

No, it is not necessary, but we encourage you to take advantage of all opportunities.

 

What do I need to bring to wear to class?

Rubber sole shoes are required.  We recommend loose fitting pants and a t-shirt.

 

Does the school district provide transportation home for my child?

No.  Because the WFC is not a school sponsored program the district is not under any obligation

to provide transportation for our members.

 

Is there a parent car pool system set up that we may join?

No, however we are hoping to establish one this year through our parent volunteers.

 

 

 

 

WESTCHESTER FENCING CLUB

Frequently asked questions

 

ABOUT FEES AND COSTS

 

 

Is there a fee to join the club?

No, there is no fee for membership into the club.  Our instructors are volunteers and our practice facilities are offered to the club at no cost.

 

Do I have to buy equipment?

No.  Because fencing equipment can be expensive, we are aware that many of you do not wish to invest in gear before you have had the chance to check it out and decide to continue in the sport.  With this in mind, it has been our goal to collect (through fundraising and donations) a large assortment of protective gear to offer to our members for use during practice and tournaments.  Although many of our experienced competitive members prefer their own gear, especially swords, it is never required.  Members who are interested in purchasing their own gear should check with Mr. Moss for recommendations.

 

Is it necessary to apply for a USFA membership?

No.  An annual USFA membership is required only if you plan to participate in tournaments.

The annual membership fee for 2004/2005 is $50.

 

What is the USFA?

The United States Fencing Association (USFA) is the recognized National Governing Body for the sport of fencing by the United States Olympic Committee.

 

Are there fees to participate in tournaments?

Yes.  These fees vary from $10 - $25 per event.

 

Are there a lot of fundraising expectations in your club?

Not too many.  Our expenses are minimal because our facilities are offered at no cost, and our instructors are volunteering their time and expertise.  However, the equipment and gear that the club provides to our members requires funds to purchase and maintain in quality condition.   We rely on donations from the community, and we participate in two main fundraising events each year.  The first is the Westchester PTA’s Annual Garage Sale event in the fall.  This is a great opportunity for the students of Westchester to raise funds for their extracurricular clubs and activities.  The second is a Car Wash event.  We encourage and appreciate your involvement and support in these two events.  All fundraising proceeds are used to purchase more equipment for the club.