Business Details
Premier Fencing Academy in Peoria, IL
Peoria Fencing Academy stands as Central Illinois' premier fencing institution, dedicated to cultivating excellence in athletes of all skill levels. As a proud member of the United States Fencing Association, we offer comprehensive training programs in Foil, Epee, and Sabre, catering to beginners, recreational enthusiasts, and competitive athletes. Our structured curriculum emphasizes physical development, including cardiovascular strength, muscle coordination, and rapid reflexes, while fostering critical thinking and strategic decision-making. With expert coaching from industry professionals like Founder Elsayed Emara, Owner Mohamed Shousha, and Head Coach Seth Leitner, we provide personalized instruction tailored to individual goals.Our youth Musketeer Program (ages 5-9) introduces foundational fencing techniques through engaging, game-based learning, while advanced groups like the Gold Program prepare athletes for national-level competition. The academy also offers private lessons, equipment support, and specialized birthday party packages, ensuring accessibility and versatility for diverse client needs. Through decades of combined coaching experience and a commitment to athlete development, we maintain a reputation as Peoria's leading authority in fencing education.
Services
Fencing Classes
Competitive Training
Private Lessons
Equipment Rental
Birthday Parties
Highlights and features
- We offer USA Fencing Association-certified programs for all skill levels
- Our coaches have decades of combined competitive fencing experience
- We provide personalized training plans for individual athlete development
- We offer equipment rental and purchasing assistance for beginners
- We host specialized birthday party packages with fencing activities
Associations and certifications
- United States Fencing Association
Services
Fencing Classes
Structured group instruction for all ages and skill levels. Our Silver Group (beginners) and Gold Group (competitive athletes) meet Monday-Thursday for 2-hour sessions. Classes focus on fundamental techniques, weapon-specific training (Foil, Epee, Sabre), and physical conditioning. Programs develop coordination, reflexes, and strategic thinking through progressive skill development.
Private Lessons
Customized 15- or 25-minute sessions tailored to individual goals. Expert coaches create personalized training plans for technique refinement, competition preparation, or specific skill development. Sessions accommodate all proficiency levels from beginners to advanced competitors seeking specialized instruction for national-level tournaments.
Birthday Parties
Themed celebration packages combining fencing activities with party amenities. Options range from basic room rentals to premium packages featuring fencing battles, movie screenings, and recreational equipment access. Maximum capacity 20 guests with duration options up to 4 hours, including cleaning services and equipment provision.
Equipment Services
Comprehensive equipment solutions for beginners and competitive fencers. We provide rental gear for new participants and assist with purchasing authentic competition equipment from top US vendors. Services include equipment selection guidance, sizing assistance, and maintenance advice to ensure proper functionality and safety.
Youth Development
Specialized introduction to fencing for children aged 5-9. Through game-based learning, the Musketeer Program teaches basic footwork, blade techniques, and sportsmanship while developing coordination, balance, and quick thinking. Sessions incorporate age-appropriate activities that build foundational skills for future competitive or recreational participation.
People
Elsayed Emara
Founder
Elsayed Emara established Peoria Fencing Academy to share his competitive fencing expertise. With decades of experience developing champions, he focuses on creating structured programs that build technical proficiency and strategic thinking in athletes of all ages.
Mohamed Shousha
Owner
Mohamed Shousha oversees academy operations while maintaining active coaching involvement. His leadership ensures program quality and accessibility, combining business expertise with hands-on fencing instruction to support athlete development at every level.
Seth Leitner
Head Coach
Seth Leitner directs technical training programs with emphasis on competitive excellence. As head coach, he develops advanced athletes through specialized drills and tournament preparation, leveraging his competitive fencing background to refine elite-level techniques and strategies.
Questions
What fencing disciplines do you teach?
We offer instruction in all three Olympic fencing disciplines: Foil, Epee, and Sabre, with specialized programs for each weapon type.
Are there age requirements for classes?
Our Musketeer Program accepts children as young as 5, with adult and senior adult classes available. All programs are adapted to participants' physical capabilities and experience levels.
Do I need my own equipment?
Beginners receive free equipment rental. Competitive fencers can purchase gear through our vendor partnerships, with expert guidance on selecting appropriate competition-grade equipment.
What competitive opportunities exist?
Our Gold Group prepares athletes for national-level competitions. We provide tournament strategy training, competition logistics support, and performance analysis to help fencers achieve competitive success.
Can I rent facilities for events?
Yes, we offer four birthday party packages with varying amenities. Options include basic room rentals up to premium packages featuring fencing activities, recreational equipment, and extended hours.
How do private lessons work?
Private sessions are customized to individual goals, available in 15- or 25-minute formats. Coaches create personalized training plans focusing on technique refinement, competition preparation, or specific skill development areas.