::Frequently Asked Questions::

1) Do I have to be a Schoolcraft College student to sign up for the class?

No. The Fencing Class is part of the CES Department. Continuing Education Services, sometimes referred to as Adult Education, is open to anyone, regardless of age or residency.

2) Is there an age limit?

For this class, yes. If the student is under age 11, they may not register for the class without special permission from the instructor, and then they must register along with a parent or legal guardian. Children under age 11 usually do not have the coordination and mental discipline it takes to learn fencing. And remember we will be attacking each other with 36-inch pieces of steel!

3) Do I need my own equipment?

No. Schoolcraft will provide everything you'll need to learn the sport. All we ask is that you bring a leather glove for your weapon hand (heavy canvass will suffice), gym shoes, and clothes you can stretch in. However, if you learn to love it and plan on competing in local tournaments, you
might find it beneficial to purchase your own equipment.

4) Do you give individual lessons?

If time permits while in class, I will attempt to give individual lessons to those who need it the most. However, at any given time, there are coaches in attendance that may be able to give individual instruction. Please ask for more details if you are interested.

5) Can I sign up for Fencing Club, or do I have to take Beginning or Advanced Fencing first?

Unless special permission is granted, you must have had Beginner and Advanced Fencing prior to signing up for the Fencing Club. If you have fenced somewhere else, call the school or send me an email (HilandDoug@aol.com) and ask. If you are already a student of mine, you know you should go through the Advanced class at least twice before signing up for Fencing Club.

6) Does it hurt?

Well, it's not supposed to hurt. That is not to say that you might not get your knuckles out of the way in time while trying to block your opponent's attack. But the blades are meant to bend when you thrust at someone, and they do. There are fewer injuries per capita from fencing than from football, baseball, basketball, and even tennis. Most injuries are common athletic injuries, like twisted ankles and such.