Here's how you can get started right away - Classes are rolling enrollment so you can start any week. You do not need to register in advance unless you are arranging for a private session. Just show up for the start of the appropriate class. Be sure to bring proof of vaccination for Covid-19. See below...
You can try one class for $20 if you are unsure about committing to the monthly membership.
Note: No outside shoes are allowed in the gym. Please bring a pair of clean sneakers for indoor use only to change into when coming to PVFA. Parents who wish to watch their children fence are encouraged to bring separate shoes or slippers for inside the gym.
Step 1 - Select the right class for the age of the student.
For students between ages 7-9 Youth Fencing Class for Ages 7-9. Come to PVFA between 2 and 2:15 on a Saturday afternoon for our Youth Class, which is from 2:30 to 3:30. This class is $150 for 3 months. You can try one class for $20.
For children who are 10 years old, they attend the Saturday Youth Class at 2:30 (arrive between 2 and 2:30) as well as the Tuesday evening Saber Class (arrive between 6 and 6:30pm). The fee is $75 per month.
For ages 11-adult You can try one class for $20 or you will need a Monthly Membership for $100 or Monthly Membership with Lessons for $150. You may attend multiple sessions per week, but we suggest you start with either the Thursday night class for 11-17 year olds or the Friday night class for adults. Parent and child combos may prefer the Friday class.
For students ages 11-17, come to PVFA between 6pm and 6:30pm on a Thursday for a class that runs from 6:30 to 8pm. (This class may include adults who cannot attend Fridays.)
For ages 18+, come to PVFA between 6pm and 6:30pm on a Friday for a class that runs from 6:30 to 8pm. (This class may include children who cannot attend Thursdays or children who are attending with a parent.)
For ages 18+ you also have the option of Monday nights for Historical Fencing. Arrive at PVFA between 6pm and 6:30pm. Class runs from 6:30 to 8pm.
Private Classes
Private Classes with the head coach are available during the day on a monthly basis. You can schedule a one and a half hour (1.5 hour) session once a week for $500 a month (cash or check only) for one to five people. (Add $100 per person for groups over five.) This option is ideal for home-school groups and also allows for families with children of various ages to all start together. Students taking private classes may also pay the regular membership fee to also attend classes during our normal open hours. Please call or email to arrange a time.
Our schedule is also listed here.
Step 2 -Payment
Pay for the class or membership either at PVFA or online. We accept cash and checks at PVFA and credit cards only through our website. Click HERE for our online Store to purchase a class, lesson, or membership. Note that you can purchase "First Intro Lesson" to try just one class if you are unsure about making a larger commitment.
If you purchase your first lesson or monthly membership online, please print out the receipt for payment and bring it to PVFA.
Please note that our preferred method of payment is to have members set PVFA as a payee with their online banking and set up a recurring monthly payment. If your bank requires an account number, please just use the name of the fencer.
To receive a family discount you must pay with check or cash at PVFA because we are limited to a certain number of items for sale on the website and can't list all possible payment options there.
Step 3 - Textbook (optional but recommended)
Purchase a copy of A Basic Fencing Companion which is an inexpensive fencing textbook that is used by Vassar and was written by PVFA's head coach. Some copies may be available for purchase at PVFA as well.
Step 4 - Print out and fill out these forms so you can bring them to PVFA for your first session. (We also have copies at PVFA.)
Contact Form
Waiver
Consent to Treat Minor Form (if student is under 18)
Step 5 - Purchase Fencing Equipment (optional)
We suggest the purchase of this starter set from Absolute Fencing Gear. If you have any questions about sizing or what to purchase please call or email before you make a purchase. We do have equipment you can use at PVFA, but fencers often prefer having their own equipment. For those interested in Historical fencing only, click here.
Step 6 - Attend your first class!
You do not need to register in advance. Just show up for the start of class! Be sure to bring indoor-only sneakers (no outside shoes allowed in the gym), long athletic pants, t-shirt, a water bottle, and proof of vaccination for Covid-19. Boys and men should also bring a protective cup. For those ages 11-adult, once you've had some beginner classes you can come to the other sessions each week too and have more fun!
Please see the rest of the website for a more detailed explanation of our schedule, our FAQ, and other information about what we have to offer more experienced fencers such as our spring, summer, and winter clinics, and coaching education.