Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to do to become a club member and start fencing?

First, register yourself as an Access Member with USA Fencing at www.usafencing.org. Then, pick your Midcoast Fencing membership tier and easily enroll on www.midcoastfencing.com.
Please read and sign our Waiver Form, Health & Safety Form, and Important Info + Code of Conduct, which you can bring in to your first class or email back to MFAC. If you have any questions, please email midcoastfencing@gmail.com

Do I need prior experience to sign up? Am I too young? Am I too old?

No!

MFAC welcomes and encourages newcomers to the sport who have no prior experience.Fencing is wonderful for a broad spectrum of ages.

The ideal age to begin is around 8 years old,and there are people as old as 80 still fencing. Fencing is a discipline that you can continue learning throughout your life.

What should I expect for the first class?

If you are joining a class for the first time, Coach will first introduce you to the correct stance and basic footwork.

You will learn about the equipment, the piste, reels and scoring machines, and partake in introductory blade drills.

Can I just walk in and start fencing to try it!?

MFAC hosts an ongoing monthly series called the “Saturday Spar”—these are single-day try fencing workshops that occur once a month, and are a great way to check it out!

Another option is to enroll in one month of the Standard Membership. These four classes will allow you to experience fencing, and if it’s not for you, you can just cancel after the first month. Similar to studying a language, fencing takes practice and time to learn!

What should I bring to class?

Comfortable athletic clothing (long athletic pants, lightweight t-shirt) and clean sneakers (no street shoes) and a water bottle.

Does fencing hurt?

It shouldn’t! Like any sport, accidents can happen, and bruises are common especially as you are first learning.

The better you become at fencing, the more you will understand the distance between you and your opponent, and hard hits should rarely happen.

How long until I can enter into a tournament?

There are fencing tournaments on a local, regional, national and international level.

Once you have adequate training and feel ready, partaking in tournaments is encouraged. This timeline varies based on the individual. www.usafencing.org is a great resource to understand the wider world of fencing!

Cara Taggersell

Cara Taggersell started fencing at 9 and achieved a Division II Women’s Foil National Championship in 2008. She joined Temple University’s Division 1 Fencing Team, became an international official for USA Fencing, and attends various fencing events worldwide. Creating a local fencing club has always been her dream, and she looks forward to sharing her passion with the community.

Ask Your Question

midcoastfencing@gmail.com

Eric Fochesato

Volunteer Club Assistant

Nolan Walz

Volunteer Club Assistant

Chelsea Wallace, Ewan Camal, and Danielle Salhany

Volunteer Club Advisory Panel

Eric and Nolan bring their enthusiasm for fencing to the club and are always happy to help out. You will find them at Midcoast Fencing occasionally covering classes or open fencing, assisting in the armory repair room, or answering questions. They are both SafeSport certified.

Chelsea, Ewan and Danielle are club affiliated parents or members who are here to help make the club the best it can be. They are engaged in aiding the progression of the club with ideas and advice, and can act as a counsel for the club. The Panel is a great resource!