Business Details
22 Years
experience
Premier Fencing Training in Santa Barbara for All Levels
Presidio Fencing Club has provided Olympic sport fencing training to athletes aged 10 to adult since 2004. Originally established as Santa Barbara Youth Fencers, the club evolved through multiple locations including Studio E, YMCA, and Presidio North before becoming a mobile community-focused organization in 2025. Our program emphasizes epee instruction while supporting competitive participation in regional, national, and collegiate events. Founding coach Tim Robinson, an accredited fencing master with USFCA, brings over two decades of experience including NCAA championship coaching at UCSB.We maintain affiliations with US Fencing and operate under Central Coast Fencing Foundation's 501(c)(3) status. Our curriculum combines technical skill development with physical conditioning, serving both recreational athletes and competitive fencers who have achieved podium finishes at collegiate championships. The club maintains rigorous safety standards through required US Fencing membership and equipment compliance protocols.
Services
Fencing Training
Epee Instruction
Competitive Coaching
Equipment Maintenance
Introductory Classes
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of NCAA championship coaching experience
- Our USFCA-accredited instructors follow Olympic-standard training protocols
- Specialized epee instruction for competitive and recreational athletes
- Proven track record with NCAA and Collegiate Club medalists
- Affiliated with US Fencing and Central Coast Fencing Foundation
Associations and certifications
- United States Fencing Coaches Association (USFCA)
Services
Fencing Training
Structured group sessions develop technical proficiency and physical conditioning. Twice-weekly practices include warm-up exercises, blade work drills, and sparring sessions using electrical scoring systems. Instruction focuses on epee techniques with opportunities for foil practice.
Epee Instruction
Specialized epee curriculum for all skill levels. Beginners start with fundamental footwork and blade techniques while advanced fencers refine competitive strategies. Classes emphasize proper grip, targeting, and defensive maneuvers following Olympic fencing standards.
Competitive Coaching
Guidance for athletes participating in regional and national competitions. Includes tournament strategy sessions, mock events, and travel coaching for qualifiers. Program has produced NCAA medalists and collegiate championship teams since 2004.
Equipment Maintenance
Professional equipment servicing with certified armorers. Offers body cord repairs, weapon rewiring, and equipment maintenance. Provides discounted rates for fencers learning self-repair techniques. Services include equipment sizing and second-hand gear assistance.
Introductory Classes
Free introductory sessions for new fencers aged 10+. Covers basic footwork, blade techniques, and safety protocols. Includes equipment loan and US Fencing trial membership assistance. Recommends four sessions for foundational skill development.
People
Tim Robinson
Founding Coach
USFCA-accredited fencing master with 20+ years NCAA coaching experience. Led UCSB to 3rd place at US Collegiate Championships in 2017 and 2nd in 2024. Recipient of USFCA Collegiate Coach Award. Specializes in epee instruction.
Questions
What fencing disciplines do you teach?
We primarily focus on epee instruction. Advanced fencers may also practice foil during sparring sessions. Our curriculum follows Olympic fencing standards.
Do I need equipment to start classes?
Introductory students receive equipment loans. For regular participation, you'll need to purchase your own gear including mask, jacket, glove, weapon, and body cord.
Are there competitive opportunities available?
Yes, we prepare athletes for regional, national, and collegiate competitions. Our fencers compete in US Fencing events including North America Cups and Southern California Division tournaments.
What age groups do you accommodate?
Our program serves athletes aged 10 to adult. Youth classes start at age 10, with specialized instruction for middle/high school students and adult recreational fencers.
How much does regular participation cost?
The floor fee is $20 per practice session. Private lessons are $30 each. Equipment costs range from $300-$500 for complete new sets, with second-hand options available.
Is prior experience required?
No prior experience needed. We offer free introductory classes for beginners aged 10+. New fencers receive basic technique instruction before joining group drills and sparring sessions.
