2026 Fencing Summer Day Camps for Beginner and Novice Fencers

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2026 Summer Fencing Camps

For Beginners and Novice Fencers

Northern Colorado Fencers (NCF Boulder) Summer Day Camps offer a real introduction to fencing.

These camps are designed for beginners and novice fencers who want to experience fencing in a structured, hands-on, and supportive environment. They are not a gimmick and not a novelty activity. Campers learn fencing as it is actually practiced, taught by coaches who do this year-round.

Some campers try fencing for a week and walk away with a meaningful experience. Others continue into seasonal training, high school, college, and beyond. Both outcomes are valid.

What matters to us is simple: campers show up, try hard, and leave with something real — an understanding of how fencing works, what it demands, and what it can offer.

For Beginners and Novice Fencers

Northern Colorado Fencers (NCF Boulder) Summer Day Camps offer a real introduction to fencing.

These camps are designed for beginners and novice fencers who want to experience fencing in a structured, hands-on, and supportive environment. They are not a gimmick and not a novelty activity. Campers learn fencing as it is actually practiced, taught by coaches who do this year-round.

Some campers try fencing for a week and walk away with a meaningful experience. Others continue into seasonal training, high school, college, and beyond. Both outcomes are valid.

What matters to us is simple: campers show up, try hard, and leave with something real — an understanding of how fencing works, what it demands, and what it can offer.

What Makes NCF Summer Camps Different

Summer camps are a cornerstone of the NCF program.

Campers are introduced to the full scope of fencing, including:

  • footwork and blade work

  • basic tactics and decision-making

  • rules, refereeing, and scoring systems

  • equipment use and safety

  • fencing etiquette and sportsmanship

Campers may:

  • fence bouts

  • coach a partner

  • call a match

  • learn how scoring systems work

  • observe historical fencing, Japanese kendo, or modern competitive formats

We teach the same fundamentals used in our year-round programs, presented in a faster-moving format that allows campers to see the breadth of the sport.

Coaching & Instruction

Camps are led by experienced, certified NCF coaches and supported by junior club members and returning collegiate and NCAA fencers.

These assistants are active fencers and role models who understand long-term development and training expectations. They are not simply helpers; they contribute directly to instruction and supervision.

The result is a learning environment that is structured, encouraging, and grounded in real experience.

Instruction by Experience Level

Beginners will:

  • learn basic footwork, blade control, and core techniques

  • become comfortable with equipment and fencing movement

  • learn how fencing classes and training actually work

Novice fencers will:

  • refine existing skills

  • learn more advanced actions and tactics

  • fence more challenging opponents

  • build confidence and consistency

Instruction is hands-on, coach-directed, and adapted to each camper’s experience. It is never rushed and never watered down.

Activities & Training

  • Interactive drills and fencing games

  • Activities that build coordination, focus, agility, and tactical thinking

  • Instruction in fencing etiquette and traditions, including saluting and sportsmanship

Each week concludes with a friendly mini-tournament that allows campers to apply what they’ve learned. Family and friends are welcome to watch.

Camp Details

Schedule

  • Monday–Friday

  • Drop-off begins at 8:30 AM

  • Camp runs from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM

  • Pick-up between 12:00–12:30 PM

We understand there is ongoing construction in Boulder. If you are delayed at pick-up, please do not stress.

Enrollment

  • Open all summer

  • Beginners and novice fencers welcome

  • No prior fencing experience required

  • Enrollment is limited to 12 campers per week

Equipment
All fencing equipment is provided, including jackets, masks, gloves, and practice weapons. Safety standards are non-negotiable.

What to Wear & Bring

Wear:

  • athletic shoes

  • T-shirt

  • sweatpants or leggings

  • shorts are fine for warm-ups and drills

  • fencing knickers are provided if desired

Bring:

  • water bottle

  • snack

  • optional fresh T-shirt to change into after fencing

Snacks & Breaks

Snacks are optional and offered during breaks. We may occasionally provide:

  • crackers or cereal bars

  • fruit

  • popcorn

  • Gatorade

  • SodaStream with dye-free flavors

  • shaved ice

Please ensure we have up-to-date allergy or medical information on file.

During breaks, we may show short scenes from The Princess Bride, The Parent Trap (1998), or historical fencing footage.

Friday Demo & Extras

Friday Demo — 10:00 AM
Campers participate in a short, informal demonstration competition. Friends and family are warmly invited.

Group Photo
Each camper receives a printed group photo to take home.

Attendance & Contact

An emergency contact form is completed on the first day of camp. Formal sign-in or sign-out is available upon request.

If your child will be absent, please text:

  • Andrea: (719) 447-5106

  • Gary: (303) 641-6557

Make-up days at future camps are offered when available.

Questions or updates? Just reach out.

  • Fencing is a dynamic sport that combines physical fitness with mental strategy. It offers a wide range of benefits for participants, including:

    • Physical Development: Improves balance, coordination, and reflexes.

    • Mental Growth: Fosters focus, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

    • Life Skills: Encourages discipline, sportsmanship, and confidence.

    Fencing is often described as "physical chess," making it a unique and rewarding experience for kids of all interests and skill levels.

    • Partner Drills:
      Campers pair up to practice real-life fencing scenarios, learning how to react to an opponent's movements and adapt their strategies.

    • Group Training:
      Collaborative exercises help participants bond with peers while learning the value of teamwork and camaraderie.

    • Mentor-Led Sessions:
      Junior club members and returning college fencers lead small group sessions, sharing tips, personal stories, and insights to inspire campers.

    • Who Can Join?

      • Beginners ages 7-13 years with no prior fencing experience.

      • Novice fencers ages 7-13 years who want to develop their skills further in a fun and collaborative environment.

    • When and Where?
      Camps are held throughout the summer at NCF Boulder, from 9am - 12pm. Sessions run from the day after Memorial Day to the week before BVSD start date, making our camps an ideal daytime activity throughout the summer.

    • What to Bring?
      Campers should wear comfortable athletic clothing (long pants and sneakers) and bring a water bottle. Snacks are optional but recommended, and regular breaks will be provided. A fresh t-shirt to change into is suggested.

    • Cost and Registration:
      The cost for the week-long half day camps is $220 per week. Early registration discounts and sibling discounts available. Camp #1 cost is $175. Class size is limited to 12, so we encourage you to sign up early!

  • At our Fencing Summer Day Camps, children of all skill levels will build confidence, learn new skills, and create lasting memories. With expert instruction and mentorship from junior club members and returning college fencers, campers will experience the camaraderie and excitement that make fencing such a special sport.

  • Reserve your spot today! Or talk to one of the coaches for more details. Whether your child is new to fencing or looking to take their skills to the next level, we look forward to welcoming them to an unforgettable summer of fencing fun!

Register now!