This classic sport is accessible to all at the RA. The RA Fencing Club is registered with the Ontario Fencing Association and the Canadian Fencing Federation and is a participant in the Canadian Fencing Federation’s Armband Program. The Club is home to many of Canada’s top fencers, and is recognized as a premier force in the Canadian fencing community.

Coaches and Instructors
The RA Fencing Club is coached by Paul ApSimon and Parviz Haghandish. As an athlete Paul has represented Canada at World, PanAm, and Commonwealth Championships. Paul is presently coaching the Canadian Women’s team; he is studying at the National Coaches Institute (NCI) and has managed teams at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, the World University Games and the Canada Games. As Head Coach, Paul is responsible for overall programming and athlete development. Assistant Coach Parviz Haghandish is a former Iranian National Team fencer and National Team Foil coach. Trained within the French system, Parviz is responsible for technical development and junior programs. In addition to Paul and Parviz, the RA Fencing Club has a number of qualified bilingual instructors who lead the Introduction to Fencing, Junior, and Adult Recreational programs.

CFF Armband Program
The Armband Program is a comprehensive progression through the sport of fencing for fencers of all ages, encompassing all aspects of the sport as fencers progress from beginner to high performance athletes. As fencers work towards receiving their Yellow, Orange, Green, Blue, Red, and Black Armbands, they will learn the skills necessary to become successful athletes, coaches, and referees. Armband tests are held by the Club once per session.

Introduction to Fencing Classes
The RA Fencing Club offers beginner classes for youth and adults from September to June. The classes introduce basic fencing footwork and various attack and defense techniques. No fencing experience is required. While the Club provides specialized fencing equipment for those enrolled in the classes (foil, mask, glove, and jacket), participants are asked to bring a t-shirt, a pair of sweat or track pants (NO SHORTS), and non-marking athletic shoes. The first week of each session is a free introductory drop-in night. Everyone is invited. Individuals can take one session of the Introduction to Fencing classes only. Subsequent registrations must be in the Recreational Membership Category.

Recreational Membership
Fencers who have completed the Introduction to Fencing classes or those with equivalent introductory fencing experience should register as Recreational Members. First time fencers must participate in ONE session of Introduction to Fencing classes before becoming Recreational Members.

Junior (ages 10-19) and Tyke (ages 8 & 9) Recreational Membership
Junior & Tyke Recreational Members are provided with an instructional program that includes organized group lessons, group footwork sessions & scheduled sparring sessions.

Adult Recreational Membership
Adult Recreational Members have access to organized group footwork sessions and scheduled sparring sessions.

Competitive Membership
The Competitive Membership is for experienced fencers who plan to compete on the provincial or national circuit during the course of the season. Competitive members have access to organized group footwork sessions, scheduled sparring sessions and lessons. A competitive membership includes coaching support at selected tournaments and eligibility to purchase private lessons.

Club Bulletin Board
Club sites are intended to inform members about upcoming events and to keep them abreast of club happenings. This site is maintained by a club volunteer. The Fencing Club website can be viewed by clicking here.

HOW TO REGISTER
Click here for registration information.