2025 Fencing Summer Day Camps for Beginners and Novice Fencers

One of the pillars of the NCF Boulder program is our summer camps.
They give kids a chance to explore fencing in a real and varied way—from footwork and bladework to rules, refereeing, and the mechanics of the gear.
We teach the same fundamentals we’d cover in our year-round classes, but in a format that moves quickly, covers a lot of ground, and shows the full scope of the sport.
Campers can see historical fencing, Japanese kendo, or how the scoring system works. They will fence a bout, coach a partner, or call a match.
Some throw themselves into it for a week and take it with them—something they remember, something they might circle back to later.
Others return for a season or two, and some keep going all the way through high school, college, and beyond.
What matters to us is that they come in, try their hardest, and leave with something real.
A better sense of how fencing works, what it demands, and maybe even what it could offer them.

Our camps are designed to create a fun, enriching experience for all participants, whether they are new to the sport or already have some fencing experience. All camps run from 9am - 12pm all summer long. You can also expect:

• Expert Coaching with Peer Support:
  Led by experienced and certified fencing coaches, our camps are supported by junior club members and returning college and NCAA fencers, who serve as instruction assistants. These enthusiastic role models provide individual guidance and mentorship, sharing their own fencing journeys to inspire and motivate campers.

• Tailored Instruction for All Levels:

• Beginners will learn the fundamentals of fencing, including footwork, blade control, and essential techniques, through hands-on instruction and engaging drills.

• Novice fencers will refine their skills, learn advanced techniques, and take on more challenging opponents to elevate their game.

• Interactive Drills and Games:
  Campers will participate in activities designed to enhance coordination, focus, agility, and strategic thinking, all while having fun.

• Fencing Etiquette and Traditions:
  We teach the history, etiquette, and traditions of fencing, including saluting and the importance of sportsmanship, helping campers gain a deeper appreciation for the sport.

• Mini Tournaments:
  The camp concludes with a friendly mini-tournament where all participants can showcase their skills. Whether your child is new or experienced, this is a fun and exciting way to put their training into practice. Family and friends are invited to spectate.

• All Equipment Provided:
  We provide all necessary fencing equipment, including jackets, masks, gloves, and practice weapons. Safety is always our top priority, and all gear meets rigorous standards.

• Limited Class Size:

Weekly Camp Information:

To ensure a safe, fun, and well-organized experience, we limit camps to 12 fencers so that every participant gets personalized attention and plenty of time to enjoy the activities

🕣 Drop-off: Begins at 8:30 AM (Camp starts at 9:00 AM)

• 🕧 Pick-up: Between 12:00 PM and 12:30 PM
  (There is a lot of construction in and around Boulder. Please don’t stress if you're delayed during pick-up — we understand the situation well.)

• 👟 What to Wear: Athletic shoes, a t-shirt, sweatpants/leggings (shorts are appropriate during warm-up and drills. Fencing knickers provided as wanted.)

• 🥤 What to Bring: A water bottle and a snack, fresh t-shirt to change into after fencing suggested.

• 📞 Can’t Attend? Please text (719) 447-5106 or (303) 641-6557 if your child will be absent. We offer make-up days at future camps.

• 🤺 Equipment: All fencing gear is provided. If you’ve ordered personal gear, we’ll have it ready.

• 🍿 Snacks: We occasionally offer snacks such as Goldfish & animal crackers, popcorn, cereal bars, fruit, Gatorade, SodaStream (dye-free, natural flavors), or shaved ice. If your child has any allergies or medical needs, please ensure we have current information on file.

• 🎥 Snack Break Movies: We show scenes from The Princess Bride, the 1998 version of The Parent Trap and historical fencing matches during snack time.

• 🎉 Friday Demo Invitation: Join us Friday at 10:00 AM for a short demo competition! Campers will show off what they’ve learned — friends and family are warmly invited. (Drop-off and start time remain the same.) It’s very informal, a bit of a whirlwind, and generally fun. This is a voluntary event and there are roles for participation.

• 📸 Group Photo: We’ll take a group photo during the week. Each camper receives a printed copy to take home.

• 📋 Sign-In/Out: there is an emergency contact form to complete on the first day of camp. There’s no formal sign-in or sign-out process. If you would like us to track sign-in/out for your child, just let us know — we’re happy to accommodate.

• ❓ Questions or Updates: Don’t hesitate to reach out anytime.
  Gary: (303) 641-6557
  Andrea: (719) 447-5106