Foil Fencing

A bible for beginning fencers (according to Notre Dame Coach Michael DeCicco), this comprehensive instructional manual presents an overview of the sport from physical conditioning and basic skills to advanced skills and strategies. Beginning fencers and instructors in search of a basic textbook for fencing techniques and terminology, as well as intermediate and advanced fencers and instructors seeking a back-to-basics source book, will find helpful ideas and approaches in this easy-to-understand guide to the art of foil fencing.

A Glossary and Index of Fencing Terms, as well as fifty-five photographs, charts, and diagrams, enrich the topical coverage, which includes equipment, rules of competition, officiating, maintaining electrical equipment, electrical scoring, and organizing and conducting tournaments. The section on safety has been endorsed by the National Fencing Coaches Association of America, and the one on liability and negligence was written by Steve Sobel, Counsel for the Amateur Fencers League of America. Each chapter features a "concept"; "learning experiences" designed to describe particular fencing actions and concepts in a way that can be translated into properly executed fencing movements are located throughout each chapter; and "highlights" at the end of each chapter provide feedback to enable fencers to analyze the accuracy and precision of their movements. A brief history of fencing and a bibliography round out a complete textbook for fencers and a valuable reference book for teachers and coaches.

In the words of one of the authors, this book is intended to "share the fun and excitement of fencing, satisfy laymen's curiosity about what fencing is, help inexperienced instructors to put their thoughts and ideas into perspective, complement and supplement the lessons of experienced instructors, and assist experienced fencers in developing the total game."