Summer Camp Session 1

NCF Boulder summer camps give students a focused introduction to fencing, with instruction centered on the épée discipline. Each camp blends physical training, foundational technique, and age-appropriate learning modules aligned with the same standards we use in our year-round youth program.

What Camp Includes Technical Foundations • Footwork patterns and movement control • Basic bladework and simple attacks • Defensive actions and counterattacks

Fencing Literacy & Understanding • Rules, history and scoring conventions • Introduction to refereeing • Safe equipment handling and care • How a bout is structured and conducted

Applied Learning • Partner drills • Supervised bouting appropriate to level • Coach-led feedback sessions • Opportunities to coach a partner or call a match

A Cross-Section of Fencing • Historical fencing demonstrations • Equipment and armory discussions • Occasional introductions to other fencing traditions (e.g., kendo)

Daily Structure • Arrival, warm-up, and mobility (including coordination and ball-skill work) • Footwork block • Bladework and partner drills • Short individual lesson rotations • Rotating learning module (rules, refereeing, gear, tactics, etc.) • Supervised bouting or scenario-based fencing • Cool-down and end-of-day review

Who Teaches It Camps are led by NCF Boulder coaching staff with support from trained youth leaders. Instruction follows the same technical standards used in our KinderFechten program.

Practical Details • All fencing gear is provided

jacket knickers gloves mask electric épées body cords/wires plastron chest guard

• Campers should wear athletic clothing, closed-toe shoes, and bring water and a snack • Open to beginners, developing fencers, and students coming from our after-school program

Program Outcomes By week’s end, campers will: • Understand the fundamentals of épée fencing • Know how bouts work and how to keep score • Have experience fencing safely under supervision • Be familiar with the cultural and historical context of the sport • Gain confidence in movement, coordination, and decision-making

End-of-Week Demonstration (Fridays) On Friday, campers participate in a short, friendly “mini-tournament” modeled after our in-club Clash of Swords events. While it is a competitive tournament; it is a structured showcase where students demonstrate the skills they’ve learned. No fencer has to compete as n there are other roles to fill during the event.