Dueling with swords may seem like an activity reserved for pirates or knights, but with protective gear and the guidance of a coach, fencing can make a child’s dream of sword fighting a reality. The technical sport teaches kids proper footwork, coordination and focus, which work together to improve hand-eye coordination, motor skills and agility. The strict discipline and independent nature of fencing can also improve a child’s concentration and confidence even when there isn’t a sword in his hand.
Lone Star Fencing Center
Lone Star Fencing Center offers a musketeer program for ages 6–8 that meets from 5:30–7pm every Tuesday for $65 per month, and equipment is provided. Similarly, a junior program for ages 9–12 meets every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday for $95 per month, and students are required to purchase all equipment after the second month. To try out fencing, students can join a free introductory class or sign up for a pre-season camp for $275 that runs August 12–16 for ages 6–12.
Dallas, 469/855-1281
lonestarfencingcenter.org
Cutting Edge Fencing Center
Cutting Edge Fencing Center provides a youth practice class for ages 8–12 for $80 per month that meets once a week on either Wednesday or Saturday, depending on the child’s schedule. Equipment is provided for this level of fencing. In addition to the weekly practice class, kids have weekly access to a 30-minute workout class and a bouting period, where they can compete against others at the center. Private instruction is also an option for all ages and costs $30 for a half-hour session. Children new to the sport can receive a crash course in fencing during a learn-to-fence camp that runs August 5–8 for $80.
North Richland Hills, 817/428-5599
cuttingedgefencing.com
Gold Blade Fencing Center
Gold Blade Fencing Center teaches fencers basic footwork and actions in a six-week beginners’ course for ages 6 and older. The class costs $100 per person and meets for an hour and a half on either Monday or Wednesday, and equipment is provided. After completing the course, kids can join classes offered each day. At age 9, children who have completed the course and taken classes are eligible to become a member of the club.
Southlake, 817/416-0822
goldbladefencing.com
Rockwall Fencing Academy
Rockwall Fencing Academy offers classes every Monday, Wednesday and Friday year-round for ages 6–12. Monthly tuition is $75. Parents with multiple children interested in fencing can take advantage of the family membership tuition of $150 per month, which allows all members of the family to participate. Equipment is provided for the first two months; after that, there is an additional $25 per month equipment usage fee. Children ages 8–12 can also participate in a summer camp session that runs August 5–9 for $125.
Rockwall, 903/348-2744
rockwallfencing.com
Published August 2013
