About
Welcome to the PA Fencing Club (PAFC). We are a multicultural and friendly club at Marayong, Western Sydney, suitable for all levels of fencing from beginners to veterans.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Club has been funded to introduce fencing to a large and diverse population of the Blacktown City and Western Sydney. Our goal is to introduce people to a sport which has evolved through the centuries to the very exciting and athletic sport of today. Our Club, the only fencing club at Blacktown City and one of 3 in Metropolitan Western Sydney, is open to everyone, from people just looking for a fun recreational sport and good exercise, to those interested in competitive level fencing.
People who previously avoided traditional sports have found an exciting alternative in this ancient art. Extremely safe and dynamic, fencing teaches mental fortitude, agility, lightening fast hand-eye coordination, the focus of martial combat and a high degree of tactical thinking.
We offer group lessons and private instruction in sabre, foil and épée for children, men and women of all ages. We teach the Olympic sport of fencing in a fun, family oriented environment. Our dedicated, passionate coaches, fencers, parents and supporters look forward to welcoming anyone who is interested in learning more about this exhilarating sport. We not only aim to develop fencer's technical skills but we also focus on physical fitness. The student will also be taught the emotional, physical, and intellectual discipline necessary for reaching different levels of skill and mastery.
The Club offers instruction through classes, camps, workshops, and individual lessons. Fencers of all ages are welcome, and members range from recreational fencers to fencers who compete in local, regional, national, and international tournaments.
The Club is affiliated to the NSW Fencing Association Inc. (NSWFA) www.nswfencing.org.au
AIMS & OBJECTIVES
The aims and objectives of the Club are:
- To uphold the honourable traditions of fencing.
- To offer coaching, recreational and competitive opportunities in fencing.
- To train and mentor fencing coaches, referees, administrators and volunteers.
- To create an environment where members can use fencing as a means of individual athletic, intellectual and spiritual growth.
- To facilitate the participation in and enjoyment of sports activities and fencing
- through the running of training sessions, camps, workshops, competitions and socials.
- To promote the fencing within the local community.
- To support the NSW Fencing Association (NSWFA) and the Australian Fencing Federation (AFF) through the clubs affiliated membership, and to encourage its members to become individual members of the aforesaid associations.
PROGRAMS
The club is pleased to offer a series of age appropriate programs for children from about 8 years old and adults. Program begins with Beginner Fencing, an 8 week introduction to the sport. Program continues with a series of ongoing classes in foil and sabre, followed by intermediate and competitive programs where fencing skills are mastered. Our foil and sabre programs are ongoing throughout the fencing season which run from February to the end of December and enrolment is rolling. Programs will teach the basic fundamental skills of balance, coordination, agility, speed and reaction, provide an introduction to the fencing safety, disciplines of foil and sabre, and give the new fencers a taste of competitive fencing in a fun environment.
Those fencers who demonstrate an interest and ability to pursue competitive fencing training after completing the basic and intermediate programs will be able to continue mastering foil or sabre skills in advanced training group.
Also fencers can learn and pursue to become referee, coach and administrator.
Volunteers are always welcome by the Club and NSWFA to assist in organising competitions and other activities.
Beginner Fencing Program
Program is open for all ages. This course will provide an opportunity to learn basic fencing skills, movement, tactics and safety. No previous experience required. In this program students learn proper stance, basic footwork, blade work, and tactics. Exercises and games that strengthen the body and improve speed and mobility are an integral part of this program. Students are introduced to the rules, etiquette and formality of the sport. Students will participate in group games, partner drills and bouts. Fencing equipment is introduced and provided for the duration of the program.
After completion of this program fencers will be ready to start in competitions appropriate to the age and skills. Fencers who have completed Beginner Fencing are encouraged to join the fun by continuing in the foil/sabre programs. Individual lessons are recommended once a week.
Intermediate Fencing Program
The Intermediate Program provides a bridge for those who fence recreationally, but realize they want more. Students will develop speed, accuracy, tactics, and technique. If you are interested in tournaments, this program will teach you the rules of competitive fencing. Exercises encourage the development self-esteem, aid in the development of self-confidence, and promote good physical fitness. Fencing helps young people develop discipline, balance, coordination and sportsmanship. Individual lessons are recommended at least once a week.
Advance Fencing Program
This program is designed for fencers who are actively competing on a local, regional and national level. Program will provide determined fencers with highest level of competitive training including advanced footwork, drills, tactical application of fencing techniques and detailed understanding of the rules. Individual lessons are recommended at least once a week.
Competitive Fencing
Competitive fencing relates to all programs. With attention to safety, students will engage in fencing games, drills, footwork, blade work, and tactical instruction. Strengthening and cardio workouts build speed and endurance. Students have the opportunity to participate in open bouting and optional in tournaments. Program includes systematic training three days per week, rigorous conditioning and footwork, increased bouting time, tactical discussions, tournament preparation and fencing theory. Individual lessons are recommended at least once a week.
PRIVATE TUITION
The PAFC offers private fencing tuition addressing aspects of fencer’s individual fencing style, skill and fitness. Individual lessons are one-on-one training sessions with a coach, are an excellent way to excel faster and are recommended for all fencers. Such a lesson may focus on teaching specific technical skills, training the athlete to perform these skills in different tactical environments or on preparing the athlete for competition by more closely simulating an actual bouting scenario. For recreational and competitive fencers, the private lesson should be a fundamental component of their training program.