Fencing was once commonly learned at an early age, which is why so many octogenarians still settle disputes with games of Rock, Paper, Épée. Celebrate civilized swordplay with today’s Groupon: for $49, you get a seven-week introductory fencing course at Worcester Fencing Club (up to a $170 value). The new introductory class begins on January 3rd.
Nationally certified instructor Doug Jacobs parries his way through Worcester Fencing Club’s 8,000-square-foot facility, educating fledgling fencers in the ways of the sword while emphasizing proper technique. Spanning seven consecutive weeks, the introductory course sheds light on the fundamentals of sword swinging, footwork, thrusts, and when to shout “touché” at incoming swordfish. Participants ages 12 and older can hone more advanced and nuanced techniques, whereas those 11 and younger focus on having fun, showing good sportsmanship, and grooming d’Artagnanesque mustaches. Classes meet once a week, and Worcester Fencing Club provides all necessary equipment. Groupon holders are not required to join the United States Fencing Association.
Worcester Fencing Club
Perhaps as a tribute to the timeless nature of the sword, the Worcester Fencing Club began as a small class held at the Higgins Armory Museum, a collection of arms and armor from medieval Europe and beyond. There, Doug Jacobs—a United States Fencing Association–certified instructor—began imparting his knowledge to a handful of students, giving them a small taste of the age-old sport that, over the years, had become unfairly associated with bullies popping balloons in the streets. Still, many of his students wished to extend their training, and—upon a suggestion of the mother of some of his students—Doug expanded his academy in 1998, forming the Worcester Fencing Club. Today, the school continues to draw fresh blood, introducing students of all ages and experience levels to modern- and Olympic-style fencing in classes still often taught by Doug himself.