I or my student have never fenced before. What do we do?

Beginner classes run throughout the year. Each course introduces the student to the fundamentals of modern foil fencing and prepares them for our competitive class, which is what we call our main group practice. All ages attend the same beginner class.

What about equipment? What do we bring?

All equipment is provided for beginner classes. Equipment is sanitized after each use. After beginner class, fencers must purchase an electric foil, lame (scoring vest), and body cord. Students will be fitted for these items in their first competitive class using club equipment and an order placed on your behalf through our supplier, Absolute Fencing Gear.

All students must have gym shoes and workout clothes for class. A water bottle is also required.

Do you have financial assistance or discounts?

Yes! We never want finances to come between anyone and fencing. We have scholarships, family/sibling discounts, and work with community organizations to assist with attendance. All of this is done with total confidentiality. We also offer a discount on a competitive membership after completing a beginner course.

Please email us (see below) to arrange.

What is competitive class like? Is competition required?

Competitive class is our main group practice. Each day starts with a quick warmup followed by footwork. After that, students fence under the direction of a coach for the remainder of class. As our memberships include at least one lesson per week, students will either take that individual lesson before, after, or during class on one of the days they attend.

Attendance at competitions is not required but encouraged. We believe passion for fencing is fueled by three things: having fun, making connections, and improving skill. Tournaments are a prime motivator to continue to improve and therefore can drive a student’s passion for fencing. We treat our competitive and non-competitive students identically under the belief each student is unique and valuable.

What can we expect from competitions?

We have practice competitions in class at least once per quarter, so you or your student will be familiar with the format before attending. USA Fencing divides competitions into three levels: local, regional, and national. Students start at local competitions held in the Roaring Fork Valley, Grand Junction, or Denver. They then progress to regional competitions held in Denver or California. After that, they’re ready to tackle national competitions held all across the country.

What does Roaring Fork Fencers Club do to keep students safe?

RFFC protects students in many ways. First, we have four strictly enforced but simple safety rules that every student learns that prevent the majority of unnecessary injuries. Second, all instructors and adults with direct contact to minors are SafeSport certified, which includes a background screen. Finally, we follow and enforce USA Fencing’s Minor Athlete Abuse Protection Policy (MAAPP).

Does Roaring Fork Fencers Club have a diversity statement?

Yes. Our mission statement is to inspire and sustain passionate fencers. We fully believe that includes everyone. We accept people of all cognitive abilities, physical abilities, gender identities, orientations, religions, and socioeconomic statuses. Our students and the fencing community at large are extraordinarily diverse and we celebrate how positively that enriches our sport. Discrimination and abuse based any of the above is not tolerated.

I feel I need to report something inappropriate. How can I do so?

Please submit any reports of inappropriate conduct by students, staff, or parents to Coach Greg. You can call or text 847.778.8513 or email greg@roaringforkfc.com. Your confidentially is guaranteed. Additionally, if you feel that the scope of the report is larger than the club or involves club staff or officers, click here for the USA SafeSport/FenceSafe contact and reporting toolkit.

If you would like to anonymously file a report, please click here.