Our Junior Classes are age-based group classes for ages around 6-12. These classes are kept small and focus on building basic fencing skills and providing the fencers with a fun and enjoyable start in the sport.
Where numbers permit, we split the group into SwordPlay (aprox. ages 6-9) and SwordCraft (aprox. ages 9-12).
There is some flexibility in the age guidelines to allow enrollment in the class which most suits the individual student – Whenever ages are specified this can be considered a guide rather than a rule. The maturity and skill level of the fencer is more important.
Fencers interested in competing or extending their skills are advised also to participate in junior squad training sessions, and to arrange individual lessons with club coaches. These options can be discussed with the class coach or other coach of their choice.
New members are welcome at the start of each term. All our junior classes accept beginners, subject to place availability.
The club membership and term fees include all appropriate group classes, including junior classes. Prospective members can join the first class of term for a free trial to see if the sport is for them.
Current prices and classes can be found on our Membership and Group Classes pages.
To join the class, please contact us to check availability and register for the class.
More information for Junior Fencers
Books
If you would like a reference book to assist with learning fencing, we recommend the following titles aimed at 9-14 year olds.
Learning Fencing by Berndt Barth. ISBN 1-84126-095-9
Training Fencing by Berndt Barth. ISBN 1-84126-095-7
They can be found in online bookstores, and many local stores can order them in if you provide the details above. These books contain exercises for fencers to complete, and our coaches will be happy to help answer any questions.
More training
Once you have learned the basics, fencers 12+ are welcome to join in with adult training sessions if they feel comfortable doing so. It is important to accompany this with coaching in some form in order to progress in the sport. Speak to your coach about how to make the most of your training.
More coaching
Individual lessons with club coaches are available by appointment, the cost of these is not included in the class fees. Standard lessons run for 30 minutes, but junior fencers may prefer to start with 15-20 minutes.
Competition
There are a number of junior competition events run throughout the year at club and state level. Some of our fencers also travel to larger competitions held interstate. Fencers interested in competition should speak to their coach about how best to prepare and which events to enter. As many of the junior classes are focused on fun and skill building rather than competition, preparation will generally need to include some bout practise on the electric equipment and individual lessons.
We generally do not recommend competition for ages under 7, and although there are some U9 competitions available to enter, suitability will always depend on the skill and maturity of the individual child. Fencers usually reach their peak ability in the mid to late 20’s, or even early 30’s. It is important for kids to enjoy the sport so they can persist for the long term.
Equipment
All required equipment can be hired or borrowed at the club training sessions, and competition-grade equipment can be hired for a small fee when required. However the amount of equipment available is limited, so it is expected that fencers will begin purchasing their own once they have decided to continue with the sport.
The club can help with providing cheap & cheerful kit suitable for training and entry-level competitions. It is sometimes possible to obtain second-hand equipment for fast-growing junior fencers, we try to hold at least one “market day” each year to facilitate members wanting to buy and sell kit.