Fencing Program Overview
Honor Before Glory
Fencing and Priorities
We believe in prioritizing safety, family, and school followed by fencing. The fact is that even if your child makes it to the Olympics, he/she will still ultimately seek a career in the workforce.
As we take this journey together, we will support your child, novice to NCAA, in striking a healthy balance between home, school, and sport.
Rest assured our number one priority is safety at all times. We have a COVID 19 plan plus every coach is background checked and safe sport certified.
Schedule and planning
We know balance is critical for student-athletes but, in addition, it has to work for parents logistically. Training at WAY is available 7 days a week starting as early as 12 noon to 8:00 pm.
Post pandemic will see a gradual return to live classes coupled with open fencing. There is a limitation on capacity (25) but historically we have never exceeded that amount even during pre-pandemic times.
The new WAY calendar is updated weekly and we encourage parents to visit it regularly to keep up with the ever-evolving times.
COVID 19 Plan
WAY is committed to safety first. To help protect against the spread of COVID 19, we will implement and enforce the following protocols and procedures starting on June 22nd. Our plan is based on, and in accordance with, CDC and CT.Gov guidelines. As such, it may be revised periodically in accordance with updated information provided by these sources.
CAMPS (recreational and competitive)
Two camps running concurrently.
Combo Camp (a balanced recreational approach to learning fencing, archery, and chess. Approx 8 hours of each discipline)
Fencing Bootcamp (ideal for results-oriented students interested in training and competing like a junior Olympian. Approx. 25 hours of fencing training)
Specialized Fencing Equipment
Fencing equipment is not as expensive as you may think. We make it easy for you to have your own personal uniform to take home, clean, and keep for the duration.
$50/Mo + a security deposit for everything you will need from the regulation safety uniform plus full access to all our electrical scoring equipment necessary to the sport.
Another option is to buy your own equipment through our pro-shop. We will be happy to size and order any equipment for you. Our prices are the same as you would find online.
The WAY to measure success?
WAY is driven by a quest for holistic athlete development, making better people while also making better athletes. These desired athlete outcomes generally fit into four areas by which we measure success when developing an athlete:
1. Competence: sport-specific technical, tactical and performance skills; improved health and fitness; and healthy training habits. We track point results as a measure of a students capability of applying technical skills under duress (competition).
2. Confidence: self-belief, resilience, mental toughness and sense of positive self-worth are the cornerstones of this program.
3. Connection: positive bonds and social relationships with people inside and outside of sport makes WAY a unique inclusive club.
4. Character: respect for the sport, teachers, and parents, ethical and morally responsible behavior at all times.
The greater your personal aspirations and goals are, the greater the level of commitment you can expect to make.
WAY recommends adhering to our S.T.A.R. Methodology and repeating this process as often as possible.
Study with a coach 1:1
Train and practice
Apply and be measured
Repeat the process
We believe in the value of teaching the art and science of fencing through 1 on 1 private instruction.
During the pandemic shut down, we offered 2 for 1 private lesson to help offset the loss of value proposition (no actual fencing). As we transition back to "normal" parents should expect a 1:1 ratio to be reinstated for LIVE lessons.
Our curriculum focuses on the fundamentals first but is progressive and always challenges the student where they are. We teach the theoretical, technical, and tactical skills proven to get results in today's contemporary competitive environment while making it an enjoyable and engaging experience. Through continuous 1 on 1 learning, students master the nuances of the sport, feel supported, and build confidence which results in greater retention and results.
Proud Member of Team USA
Way of the Sword is a sanctioned Team U.S.A Fencing Club that adheres to all USFA policies and procedures. All our coaches are Safe Sport certified. As a sanctioned club WAY is authorized to host official divisional and regional tournaments.
All fencers must become members of the USFA within 7 days of joining. This is a critical insurance mandate. Join today for as low as $10 a year and let's start crossing swords!
Foil, sabre, epee options
WAY is a three weapon club with coaches specializing in foil, sabre, and epee. Not sure which one is right for you? We will help you explore, discover, and decide as you progress in our program. As the saying goes "The weapon chooses you." Regardless of which sword you eventually draw they all serve in their own unique WAY as "life lessons" for order, perseverance, self-control, decision making, and personal discipline.
Our program teaches self-control, and how to be virtuous
We weave our core values of honesty, humility, integrity, and trust in every moment. Through hard work, overcoming challenges, and raw perseverance can we forge not only great competitive fencers but equally great citizens.
Chess anyone?
Fencing is a game of "physical chess." Chess is the ideal board game as it teaches tactics, and strategy along with critical thinking, and good decision making.
Students supply their own chess boards or assigned dedicated sets for private use.
When the time is right for your fencer we have tournaments suited for their level from novice to nationals. When you compete you emerge stronger, smarter, and better prepared for your next bout through the continuous application of your craft. We host weekly tournaments at WAY for fencers to apply what they've learned in a formal setting. We also attend "away games" as fencers improve their skill and branch out both locally and nationally across all age classifications.
Getting started
It's perfectly natural to feel some trepidation at the thought of crossing swords with another person. We understand, which is why we have a thoughtfully tailored process that supports not only the student but equally parents. Take your first lunge by contacting us for a tour.