Where is AFC located?

We meet at St. Francis School, 300 E. Huntland Drive, just north of Highland Mall and Lincoln Village. The gym is located at the back of the building. You can enter through the door on the east side of the building.

Do I need to buy equipment?

No. Class fees include loan of all necessary equipment, which consists of mask, jacket, glove, foil or épée, and (for electric fencing only) body cord and lamè. The exception is the sabre class - because sabre equipment is specialized and costly, participants in the sabre class must provide their own equipment.

What do I wear to class?

You should wear a T shirt and sweatpants to class - no shorts. In general, athletic shoes with low soles (such as indoor court shoes for racquetball or volleyball) are better for fencing than high-soled shoes such as running shoes. However, if running shoes are all you have, there's no need to buy special shoes just for fencing. Black-soled shoes which can mark the gymnasium floor should not be worn.

I am an AISD student. Can I get PE credit for fencing at AFC?

Yes. Austin Fencers Club is an AISD-approved agency for providing physical education. Middle school and high school students can get PE credit by fencing at AFC. Click here for information, requirements, and forms.

I fenced a long time ago and want to start up again. Which option (class, monthly membership, beginner, intermediate) should I choose?

If you have fenced for more than a month or two in the past, you should join the intermediate class rather than the beginner class. The beginner class starts off with basic footwork and blade positions, which most fencers with even a little experience will remember from their past. The intermediate class reviews and reinforces basic skills while building more complex skills.

My child is 9, about to turn 10. Should I enroll him in the Musketeers (age 7-9) or youth (age 10-12) class?

This may depend on your child's physical size, athletic ability, and maturity level. A big 9-year-old who regularly participates in sports may enjoy the challenge of the youth class, while a 9-year-old who enjoys games more than structured sporting activities, or who may not yet have a great deal of confidence for one-on-one competition may be more comfortable in the Musketeers class. Feel free to contact AFC if you would like to talk about your child's particular goals or ability level.

Is fencing safe?

Yes! Because of strict safety rules and high standards for equipment, the injury rate for fencing is lower than many popular sports.