Presidio Fencing Club -- Santa Barbara, California

Mastering Fencing

Mastering Fencing is a comprehensive system for developing junior and senior fencers. It is a curriculum designed by Eric McDonald, head coach of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Fencing and the SLO Highlanders. Each weapon is broken down into five achievement levels. In order to progress through each level, students must first pass a written test on various rules of the sport. Upon passing, they must then demonstrate specific skills and tactics in the setting of a private lesson. Testing for each band is administered quarterly.

It is expected that students will obtain their Red Band in at least one weapon before they fence in USFA competitions and participate in the Junior Olympic Program.

Level I

Level II

Level III

Level IV

Level V

- Foil skills

- Epee skills

Level IV: "Black Band"

At this stage, fencers are assumed to be able to attack around an opponent’s central defense and to defend from such attacks. In addition, fencers shall be able to control their distance and speed, abort the attack and to continue after an unsuccessful attack.
Technique and tactical concepts are centered around direct control over the opponent’s blade, disarmament, close distance fighting.
Students will be able to sense the single tempo attack zone, control the tempo and amplitude of both the thrust and the parry, and demonstrate point precision.
Students will also be able to sense the opponents change of tactics and to respond accordingly.
Students will also be expected coach teammates on the strip and to instruct developing fencers.
Students are expected to consistently place in the top 25% at regional and national USFA Division II competitions.
Students will be able to referee the finals at any local or regional USFA competition.
Students are expected to achieve a high level of proficiency in each of the skills.