Senior Beginners

Juniors - footwork exercise

There are two possibilities for joining the club

See the News & Updates page for an update on the current situation.

Recent returns of former members and successful beginners' courses mean that we are now running close to capacity and that we need to use coaches' time on the development of our existing members.

There will not, therefore, be another beginners course before February 2022.

We run beginners' courses. These are usually held at the beginning of school terms, according to demand.
A good way of learning about the sport AND making new friends, who are equally new to it, at the same time!

They are run on our usual club night, Thursday and you will quickly integrate with other club members.

They vary in length depending on circumstances. Recently we have offered a 2-session taster followed by a 4-session continuation for those who are hooked by the taster. Prices are moderate but depend on the precise format offered.

Following the course, which covers all the basics needed to be able to enjoy sparring with other club members. We hope then that you will continue to enjoy the sport as a club member. If so, you course will have covered you annual membership fee for that year. You will then only pay the appropriate session fee. Further development will continue with group and/or individual lessons depending on circumstances.

When there is no course imminent or there have been insufficient applicants for one, we may, where convenient offer taster sessions. These normally cost £10.00/session. If you decide to continue, you will follow a similar pattern of further development to those who do a full beginners' course.

We normally start beginners off with foil, but, if there is sufficient reason to start with either of the other weapons then that can be arranged. Once over the initial beginner stage, you are welcome to try the other weapons to see which you prefer. (Some people get equally good at all 3!)

To enquire about starting to fence

Contact by:

a) e-mail

b) phone 01384 400242 (answerphone available).

Fees:

Under 18's receive a discount. The fee covers all training and use of equipment.

Other:

Course details: Initially sessions will be approximately 1 hour long, led by one of the Club's well-qualified coaches.

You are required to join the National Governing Body, British Fencing, before you start fencing. This is FREE for the first 90 days, so no additional cost is involved.

See the British Fencing website and select "Starter" from the membership options given

The cost of the course does not include BF membership nor does club membership.

Payment for the course fee should preferably be paid by BACS transfer. WE currently prefer not to handle CASH OR CHEQUES. If used the latter should made payable to STOURBRIDGE FENCING CLUB

At the end of the session those legally entitled are welcome to join the regulars at the pub (currently in variable locations) and get to know us.

What do I need?

Apart from a bit of determination, some energy and a willingness to enjoy yourself, you need.

suitable LONG trousers (track/jogging suit, jeans, leggings, etc.).

T-shirt or similar top, (i.e. preferably without a collar).

pumps or trainers designed for indoor use ( Non marking soles).

Drink, towel, change of clothes (optional)

Note that we hope that restrictions will be lifted sufficiently to allow the use of showers, when we reopen in Sept. '21.

All specialist equipment required for the course is provided at no extra charge.

General information

The following information will give you an idea what to expect of the course and what you require.

Duration:

As mentioned above, this varies from course to course depending on circumstances. The duration of each course is, however, fixed in advance.

Following the successful introduction of Go/Fence plastic kit for the course we intend running the first couple of sessions using that, followed by an introducing to "real" metal fencing.