Loyalist Fencing Club 2018-2019
Beginners are always welcome! In fact, the majority of club members who joined us last year were beginners and many joined us for both our fall and winter sessions. Since our club includes fencers with the whole range of experience from beginner to veteran, it is never a problem to have new fencers join our club throughout the season, and we simply prorate the fees. Any time is a good time to join the Loyalist Fencing Club and start fencing! Come anytime and try your first class for free.
Session costs:
The Winter/Spring 2020 session will be a 12 week session, instead of a 14 week session like the fall, so the cost will only be $240. With an $80 initial payment we are happy to work out a payment plan if that fits the budget better.
We will continue to offer a family rate of a 10% discount off the cost of the second fencer. Members also have to join the Ontario Fencing Association (See below for details.)
To provide club members who were interested in further competitive training an opportunity for some extended bouting. We are hoping to continue to offer open bouting opportunities this season between 8:00-9:00 depending on the availability of the facility. Guests with their own equipment are welcome to drop into a class at any time. More information to follow as the season begins. We will be asking $5.00 drop in per open bouting session, just to cover wear and tear costs on equipment, et cetera.
Ontario Fencing Association Membership:
There are some changes to the structure and expectations of the required Ontario Fencing Association memberships. All fencers are required to purchase an OFA membership. This is the minimum requirement for insurance purposes. Fencers who intend to fence beyond the club classes (for example, travelling to another club to participate in a just-for-fun event as many did at the Peterborough Fencing Club or Kingston Fencing Club last year) or who intend on fencing beyond 12 weeks will now be required to purchase a Recreation license through the Ontario Fencing Association for $35.00 - this includes the Canadian Fencing Federation licence of 22.50. Those wishing to enter open tournaments eligible for points for domestic rankings would require an Competetive license for $80.00. There is a discounted competetive membership for U15 fencers. I can help you determine which route to go, and there is always the option of upgrading a license throughout the season. Registering for a Recreation license now done by the fencer online. Details can be found on the OFA website or on our homepage
At this time there appears to still be a short-term $5 Associate membership available through the OFA, though we have heard that might be changing. Please speak with Coach Rob prior to purchasing your membership so that we can determine the best option for you.
Equipment:
We will continue be committed to provide the equipment needed to begin participating in classes. In the interest of hygiene, all fencers will be asked to purchase a personal sous-plastron (under-jacket) and glove. New fencers will be provided with a club sous-plastron and glove to for the first few classes, or can choose to purchase at the outset. They will be available through the club at a minimal and competetive cost if you wish, or you can choose to purchase online (beware of unforseen shipping, taxes and duty costs, and exchange rates if shopping online!).
For those who are returning, and those who are thinking about participating in tournaments beyond the club classes, we would encourage you to start thinking about purchasing your own equipment. (We will have to ask for a replacement fee for club blades borrowed and broken at tournaments this year.) One piece at a time is ok, and we will be stocking some equipment for purchase as before. We can provide a Sizing Chart to get you started.
You should come dressed in comfortable athletic wear: a t-shirt, track-pants, and athletic shoes with a non-marking sole (no hiking boots please), and bring a personal water bottle for hydration.
Whether for fun, competition or physical fitness, fencing is a sport that appeals to all ages and abilities. Both beginners and experienced fencers are welcome! Ask about our “Fence as a Family” rate!
