Rockland Fencers Club Started a New Summer Program This July

Rockland Fencers Club, a fencing school in Nyack, N.Y., is starting a new summer program for children ages 8 to 16.

The beginner fencing and STEM program is a week-long daycamp that will run July 16-20, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily. Children will learn fencing tactics, strategies, and rules, participate in warm-up games, conditioning, and technical and fencing drills. 

The curriculum includes daily STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) activities, all hands-on and taught by a certified teacher designed to stimulate the students' minds in these subjects. Co-owner Tyler Overk decided to incorporate STEM because fencing is not only a physical activity, but one that requires mental strength, strategy, and quick decision making. 

“Fencing is a very strategic sport. It really makes you have to think when you're actually fencing,” says Overk. “What is the next best move? How can I figure out my opponent? How can I get them to do what I want them to do without them realizing that? That's why they call fencing physical chess, because you'll make one move and it's action, reaction and you never know what your opponent's thinking, if they're falling for it or setting you up for what they're planning for an attack. That type of thought process leads to a more book-smart type of person who likes to learn and expand their knowledge.”

Each day's lessons will be 60-percent introduction to fencing, and 40-percent STEM learning. The program is for beginner to intermediate fencers. It is open to both members of Rockland Fencing Club and non-members. 

The coaches at Rockland Fencers Club are all experienced competitive fencers. Overk has fenced for more than 10 years and has placed in the top five at summer nationals and earned top finishes in cadet and junior national events. Co-owner Attila Lukacs has more than 25 years fencing experience and has held several international competition titles. As a veteran high school and college coach, his students have earned top ranking results in numerous high school championships and National College Athletic Association conferences and regional finals. 

Rockland Fencers Club is also offering its regular sleep-away camp this summer from Aug. 19-25. Registration for both summer programs is open. 

More information is available on the Rockland Fencers Club website.

Image: Each day’s lessons will be 60-percent introduction to fencing and 40-percent STEM learning.

Courtesy Rockland Fencer’s Club