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

- Foil skills

- Epee skills

Level III

Level IV

Level V

Level II: "Red Band"

At this stage, fencers are assumed to have rudimentary footwork and bladework skills.
Technique and tactical concepts are centered around the preparation and development of the attack and adjusting the distance to defend.
Students will be able to hit an opening target, determine the line to defend, and select footwork based on distance.
Students are introduced to modern competitive fencing.
Students will learn the basics of refereeing bouts.
Students will learn the basics of electrical weapon gear maintenance.
Students are expected to achieve a moderate level of proficiency in each of the skills.