The Alpine Academy Fencing Program 2008-2009
August 8, 2008
The Alpine Academy Interscholastic Fencing Program is an after school competitive fencing program where students can learn the Olympic sport of fencing, both for competitive team experience and for fun and exercise. Noncompetitive student-athletes are welcome to train with the team if equipment is available.
The Coyote Fencers train twice per week, generally having one meet per week. They must join the U.S. Fencing Association and are then eligible to compete in cadet and junior national circuit events.
Fencing is called “physical chess,” as it develops both body and mind. Athletes must maintain a C average in all classes to be eligible for competition. Weekly team practice incorporates physical conditioning, as well as fencing fundamentals and strategy. The age-old sport of fencing fosters good manners, sportsmanship, and leadership skills. It also helps to develop mental focus, which can transfer to a student’s academic success. Fencing is also a sport for which students can seek college scholarships.
About Coach Sue Tidwell
Coach Sue Tidwell has been sharing her passion for fencing for more than twenty-five years. She received her U.S. Military Provost at Arms diploma in 1981 from the internationally recognized Fencing Masters Program sponsored by the Army ROTC at San Jose State University, where she was also a starter for the university’s highly ranked NCAA fencing team from 1979-82, coached by the legendary Maestro Michael D’Asaro. She has taught fencing in school and adult education settings. It has long been her dream to bring fencing to East County students. Ms. Tidwell is a full-time English and Fine Arts teacher at Alpine Academy. She holds a Master’s degree in Teaching and a supplementary CA credential in Sports and Games. She thoroughly enjoys sharing her knowledge of the art and sport of fencing and challenges her fencers to strive to develop themselves as all-round scholar- athletes.
Aaron Lorenz is assisting the team this year. He has been a club and collegiate fencer. His enthusiasm for fencing helps to keep students motivated to steadily improve their technique. Mr. Lorenz is a full-time IT analyst for JCS.
The Alpine Academy Fencing Program needs your financial support!
In order to compete in the San Diego Scholastic Fencing Conference, we need uniforms and electrical equipment: foils, epees, sabers, lames, body cords, socks, jackets and pants. Your contribution to support our fencing program is vital. We will also need parent drivers to transport students to the fencing meets. If you are able to provide support to our fencing program, please contact Sue Tidwell.
What’s Ahead for the Alpine Academy Coyote Fencers
During the 2008-2009 school year, the Alpine Academy Coyote Fencers will join the San Diego Scholastic Fencing Conference and compete against middle school and high school fencers representing over twelve schools throughout San Diego County. The program will expand to include epee, and saber, so that students have the chance to learn all three weapons. Students will be able to letter in fencing. We will be teaming up with the Peak Studio to add weight training to the program. The Coyotes will also host the annual JCS “Duel in the Desert” intramural competition.
Fencing camp will be held in August for intensive pre-season physical conditioning, teambuilding, footwork, and bladework training. Students wishing to compete on the team should attend fencing camp. Any Alpine Academy student who wishes to get fit and learn about the sport of fencing is also welcome.
For more information contact Sue Tidwell at (619) 445-1525
E-mail: stidwell@juliancharterschool.org
Alpine Academy Summer Fencing Camp
August 8, 2008
When: August 11-22 (Monday-Friday)
Location: Alpine Community Center
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Cost: $30 (to cover facilities rental)
This is a jump start for the upcoming competitive fencing season. There will be a strong emphasis on athletic conditioning, skill development, and bout preparation.
• conditioning exercises
• agility and speed training games
• core stabilization exercises
• weight training techniques
• technical and tactical instruction with video analysis
• footwork and bladework drills
• situational and strategy drills
• mental training to improve focus and performance under pressure
• teambuilding
Athletes wishing to compete on the fencing team for the 2008-2009 season are advised to attend. All Alpine Academy students who wish to “get fit” and learn the basics of fencing are also welcome.
For more information, contact Ms. Tidwell at (619) 445-1525 or stidwell@juliancharterschool.org.
What to Bring to Camp
• Running shoes and fencing shoes (Adidas “En Guard” or JL “Li-Ning” are good inexpensive low tops. Get high tops if you have a history of ankle injury.)
• Workout clothes: shorts and sweats (No jeans!)
• Jumprope (leather is best)
• Bottled water or refillable sports bottle
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Sports bag for your equipment
• Large towel (if you don’t like sitting directly on grass)
• Small towel (for sweat)
• Healthy mid-morning snack (banana, apple, peanut butter on whole grain bread or crackers, energy bar, etc.)
Most of the equipment can be purchased at Sports Authority, Big 5, Wal-Mart, or Target. Fencing shoes can be purchased at The Fencing Post or online. If you need help selecting equipment, please call me.
Online fencing equipment suppliers:
www.thefencingpost.com (in person at 1770 S. Escondido Blvd., Escondido)
www.kfirfencinggear.com
www.americanfencerssupply.com
