Activity Fees and Other Costs

Activity Fee

Fencing is a club sport and the Thundercats are 100% funded and run by the LHS-VHHS Fencing Foundation, Inc. (LVFF), an Illinois non-profit 501C charitable organization (we do not receive funding from School District 128). LVFF's objective is to promote the life long sport of fencing and we support this through fencer activity fees, fundraising, and charitable donations. The 2024-2025 season activity fee is $380 per student which covers:

• Coaching staff

• Practice and Tournament Facilities (rental space)
• Practice/training equipment, loaner equipment, electronic scoring equipment and maintenance

• Liability Insurance, and USA  Fencing / Great Lakes High School Conference Fencing memberships
• Purchase/maintenance of electronic scoring equipment
• Competition and Tournament Fees (Note there is no per-event fee as these are covered by the annual activity fee)

• All Thundercats receive team logo patch (worn on fencing jacket) and team logo socks - these identify the team during competitions

Gear

Student fencers are encouraged to buy their own gear which vary slightly depending on the fencers weapon; Epee, Foil, or Sabre (learn more here).  Generally, a kit includes a Helmet, Jacket, Knickers, Plastron (worn under the jacket), Glove, Cords, and the Weapon.  In addition, a protective plastic chest plate is required for women and optional for men.  Athletic shoes are required for practice and competitions.  We recommend non-marking form-fitting sneakers that provide good grip on gym floors.  There are fencing specific shoes (more expensive) however most fencers wear shoes with good roll characteristics.  Shoes that have flat bottoms or hard edges should be avoided (indoor soccer shoes, chucks, etc.).

No Fencer Left Behind!

LVFF will support athletic participation for families with limited resources. Please email board@thundercats128.org for more information. All inquires are strictly confidential.