Yep, and we're going strong!
Easy! The best way to start is to stop by one of our classes or an open fencing night and meet the club.
Of course! This is why we have a beginning fencing class, since most people haven't had the opportunity to fence before.
We begin the first night with just a bit of paperwork. We will have you sign three forms:
After everyone has signed these forms, we will go over the different weapons in fencing, and some general information about fencing and our club specifically. After this, we will begin learning the footwork for fencing, so you should come dressed ready to move.
For those of you who were lucky enough to have a high school with a fencing program or a private instructor, we have an intermediate fencing class as well. We may suggest you attend a beginning fencing class night prior to attending an intermediate class, just because teaching methods and styles inevitably vary. If you're a transfer student to NIU coming from another school that had a fencing club that you were a part of, and they do something differently than us, please let us know! We are always open to new ideas.
Unfortunately, if you are not an NIU student or staff member you are unable to join us.
Sorry, currently we are not accepting anyone under the age of 18.
Nope! Everything you need is provided free to use. This includes a fencing jacket, glove, mask, and a foil. If you're like some of us that bruise very easily, we also have a couple under-jackets for extra padding.
Yes. Fencing is not supposed to hurt, as long as it is being done properly. We do have you sign a liability waiver on the first night which states that you cannot sue us or the recreation center should you happen to be injured during a class or club meeting, but please understand that it is RARE for anyone to be seriously hurt. The most you can really expect is a few bruises when you're just learning to attack each other and are figuring out your attack distance.
Basically, wear what you would normally work out in. Workout/Yoga pants, a tee-shirt, and gym shoes. We do recommend that you wear pants rather than shorts, especially for the first few classes because you can be hit in the leg. We also ask that you do not fence in sandals, flip-flops, high heels, combat boots, Ugg boots, Crocs, or... well, really anything that's not a gym shoe. Long hair should be tied back.
We have and teach all three weapons - foil, epee, and saber!
Only $20 for the whole school year!
The learning curve for fencing is rather quick. It won't take you very long to learn the basics, but it will take you a long time to be able to apply and use those basics successfully in a match. There are MANY techniques and theories in fencing, and it can take years for you to become a great fencer. Don't let this discourage you, though! We are all learning, and this is why we are here. To learn how to be a better fencer together, and to always keep learning. Do not walk in and expect to be an expert fencer in a week.
Of course! We don't spend ALL of our time together fencing, we do have other interests of course. Open Fencing is a good time to not only practice fencing but meet and talk to a lot of our members. Aside from that, we often grab dinner together after fencing, and sometimes plan other nights together like movie nights, going through the corn maze at the Jonamac Apple Orchard, trips to Ollie's Frozen Custard, and more! If you have a suggestion for a fencing get-together, let us know!