Whether you have a child who’s dipping their toes into the sport of fencing or one who’s ready to take it to the next level, Manhattan Fencing Center in Englewood and Waldwick, NJ, and Manhattan, NY, is one of the largest fencing communities in the region, and a place where students will grow and thrive in the sport. Started in 2007 by U.S. Fencing Hall of Fame Maestro and seven-time Olympic Coach Yury Gelman, Manhattan Fencing Center is the highest-rated saber club in the country and serves beginners to Olympians in classes, camps, and private lessons. If you’re considering fencing for your child, Manhattan Fencing Center is where they can learn the sport and progress at their own pace. The skills they learn through fencing can help build coordination, agility, speed, strength, endurance, and hand-eye coordination. Read on for more about this fascinating sport and how Manhattan Fencing Center is leading the forefront in skills and competitiveness for all its students. (featured photo credit: Manhattan Fencing)

Manhattan Fencing Center

Manhattan Fencing kids 2026 — *Get ready to spend the summer at Manhattan Fencing Center. Photo Credit: Manhattan Fencing Center*

Manhattan Fencing Center offers confidence, discipline, and competition

Manhattan Fencing Center (MFC) is a premier youth fencing program serving the Tri-State Area, with locations in Englewood and Waldwick, New Jersey, and Manhattan, New York. With over 20 years of coaching experience, MFC has built a reputation for developing confident, disciplined, and competitive fencers at every level, from first-time beginners with no prior experience necessary to nationally ranked competitors. Their expert coaching staff provides instruction in saber, using a curriculum designed to build both athletic skill and mental focus. They believe fencing teaches life skills that go far beyond the saber: strategic thinking, resilience, and sportsmanship.

How fencing can benefit your child

Thinking about fencing for your child? Kids as young as 5 can start and will grow with the sport to reap myriad benefits, including hand-eye coordination, better focus, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. The sport, which can be likened to physical chess, provides a sense of community and instills skills that extend well beyond the fencing arena. For young athletes, it offers comprehensive benefits: it sharpens agility, balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health. Mentally, it strengthens focus, enhances problem-solving skills, and teaches calmness under pressure. Fencing also fosters sportsmanship, respect, and integrity—values that contribute positively to personal development. It’s best to start young to get a competitive edge and potentially pave the way for opportunities in collegiate fencing at Division 1 or 2 universities, a goal for many who come to Manhattan Fencing Center.

Manhattan Fencing friends 2026 — *Spend the summer with friends at Manhattan Fencing Center. Photo Credit: Manhattan Fencing Center*

Summer at Manhattan Fencing Center

Each summer, Manhattan Fencing Center offers a variety of camp programs for children ages 5 and up, including its popular Saber & Chess Camp for ages 7 to 14, which combines two of the world’s greatest strategic disciplines into one dynamic experience. Whether you are looking for your child to have fun, stay active, or ignite a lifelong passion for the sport, Manhattan Fencing Center is the place to start. Their fencing camps are expertly divided by weapon, age, experience, and USFA rating, ensuring you receive tailored instruction to meet your unique needs.

Top coaching and a family environment

What makes Manhattan Fencing Center stand out is the elite coaching led by U.S. Fencing Hall of Fame inductee and seven-time Olympic coach Yury Gelman. Known for its inclusive programs and national results, the Center is celebrated as the #1 feeder club for highly selective colleges, consistently nurturing top-tier fencers. Add in a state-of-the-art facility, and each fencing student who trains will be set up for success. The Manhattan Fencing Center is also a top-notch training club that was selected by the U.S. Olympic Committee. It provides a learning hub for other coaches to develop their coaching skills and help young athletes realize their dreams of becoming Olympic champions. In addition, many students develop lifelong friendships through training, camps, competitions, and team events. One of their core philosophies is to “raise good people first and great fencers second.” While proud of their competitive success, Manhattan Fencing Center places equal emphasis on confidence, resilience, sportsmanship, respect, and personal growth.

Manhattan Fencing practice 2026 — *Get ready to learn, build confidence, and discipline at Manhattan Fencing Center. Photo Credit: Manhattan Fencing Center*

FAQs about Manhattan Fencing Center

What if I am new to fencing?

Many parents may assume fencing is only for highly competitive athletes, but at Manhattan Fencing Center, no prior experience is necessary, and most students begin without a fencing background and progress at their own pace.

Which camp or class do I sign my child up for?

Classes and camps are structured by age and USFA rating to ensure personalized attention, and they are available for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced competitors. Programs include the Musketeer Club (4-6), Youth Club (7-11), adult fencing, and classes for intermediate, competitive, and elite. Camps include youth camps and competitive camp options.

What equipment does my child need for a class or camp?

When taking a class, fencing equipment includes a protective mask, padded jacket, gloves, a specific weapon (saber), and electric scoring gear such as lames and body cords. Padded pants, specialized shoes for agility, and chest protectors are also necessary. Beginner students at the Manhattan Fencing Center receive full equipment sets. Additionally, the Yury Gelman Foundation provides financial aid to students aged 7-13 who need assistance to enroll in programs at both locations and to receive competitive training grants.

For more information on Manhattan Fencing, please see their website, Facebook, and Instagram pages to schedule an introductory visit, tour the facility, or try a beginner class or summer camp.