Intro Program
The introductory program includes 12 weeks of instruction and full equipment for the duration of the course (all we require is you wear comfortable pants, shoes and a t-shirt, and bring a water bottle).
The content of the introductory course is as follows:
1. Basic Theory (rules, equipment, history)
2. Fencing Safety & Etiquette
3. Basic Footwork
4. Basic Parries
5. Basic Attacks
For more information, or to reserve a spot on the next class, please visit here or contact info@westdalefencing.com
Youth Programs
For information on our youth programs (ages 8 - 12), please click here
Recreational Program (REC)
The recreational program runs from 6 - 8 on Wednesday nights. This class is open to anyone who has successfully completed an Intro class, and builds on the initial skills that are taught as part of these classes.
Competitive Program (COMP)
The competitive program is geared towards recreational fencers who wish to improve their technical skills and become more competitive on the provincial circuit. Classes run from 6 – 8 on Monday nights, and will include footwork, conditioning, technical drills, free fencing time, and occasional individual lessons with one of the coaching staff. Fencers in this program are also strongly encouraged to participate in the Wednesday night recreational classes each week (at no extra charge, subject to space availability). Members of the competitive program are expected to purchase their own equipment.
Elite Program (ELITE)
The elite program is geared towards fencers who wish to become competitive on the national circuit. Formal classes for the elite program run from 6 – 9:30 on Monday and Wednesday nights.
The elite program differs from the ‘competitive’ program in that whilst there are some structured drills, footwork and themed bouting offered from time to time, there is also an emphasis on self-directed learning, and on physical conditioning. Members of the elite program are expected to maintain a regular competition schedule, which will involve travel outside Ontario. There is scope for members of the elite program to work towards their orange, green and blue armbands. This program includes weekly individual or group lessons with one of the coaching staff, and coaching support at designated tournaments.
High Performance (HP)
The HP program is geared towards fencers who wish to compete at the national squad level or beyond. Programs are highly individualised, and there is an expectation that members of the HP program will put in significant additional training outside of practices. There is also the expectation that members of this program will assist with club activities such as coaching clinics, tournaments and training camps, and that they will serve as ‘mentor athletes’ for our less experienced fencers.
In addition to regular individual and group lessons as deemed appropriate by the coaching staff, the elite program provides significant support outside of practices, including coaching support at designated tournaments, annual plans, assistance with funding, and scholarship applications, and monthly performance reporting to NSO / PSO representatives as required. Please note that entry to the HP and elite programs is by invitation only. All COMP, ELITE and HP members are expected to maintain accurate and up-to-date training logs (which include competition reports).
