Fencing is an incredibly fun activity that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. Fencing can also be a journey for improving one’s mental and physical conditioning, for developing character, and for learning to succeed against adversity. Coach Young will bring his experience with fencers at all levels to help NEFC fencers determine the pathway that is best for them. Coach Young has brought fencing to elementary and middle schoolers, has helped high schools develop fencing teams, and has been the Coach for World Cup Champions and Olympic gold medalists. The progression for each fencer at NEFC is an interaction among their goals for fencing, their progress in training to date, and their commitment to the sport and team. Coach Young will work with each family and fencer on a regular basis to determine how the fencer is progressing, what they want to accomplish next, and what training level best fits their goals for fencing. The charts below provide general guidelines and expectations for fencers at each level; level assignment and training plan is ultimately determined by Coach Young. Level 1: Introduction to Fencing and Recreational Fencing Fencing is a fun and exciting activity, a fact that should be cherished by fencers at all levels. Fencers at this level are enjoying the sport, learning more about it, exploring their commitment to training, and enjoying their time with teammates. Level 2: Novice Competitive and Local Fencing As fencers progress in their skills, they may wish to gain further training and experience with competition. Fencers at this level become exposed to the strategies, skills, and practical elements needed to enjoy competitive fencing locally including club tournaments. Level 3: Intermediate Competitive and Regional Fencing Fencers at this level have learned to manage the physical and mental demands of competitive fencing and are preparing to succeed at the next level—competition in regional tournaments (RYC, RJCC, ROC). Fencers at this level can advance on the regional points list in their weapon, qualify for national tournaments, and earn ratings. Level 4: Advanced Competitive and National Fencing Fencers at this level have had success in regional tournaments and are ready to commit to more intensive training to succeed at the national level. Fencers at this level will compete regularly and will focus on readiness for high level national tournaments such as the North American Cups (NACs) and Summer Nationals. Fencers become more committed to additional physical training, to developing time management skills to balance their work and training, and to assuming personal accountability for their training. Level 5: Elite Competitive and International to Olympic Fencing Fencers at NEFC will be supported to achieve any level of fencing that they dream. Coach Young is prepared to match the intensity and commitment of fencers who hope to reach the highest levels by sharing his Olympic and World Cup winning methods and mindset. Fencers at this level will be fully committed to the development of their physical, mental, and tactical skills and will complete training both at NEFC and at home. They will hold themselves accountable to the highest personal standards as a fencer, in their training, and in their academic work. Fencers at this level will compete regularly and will have intensive training and travel schedule. The NEFC Team: All levels While fencing is an “individual” sport, no individual fencer can succeed without the commitment and effort of his teammates. All members at NEFC are encouraged and expected to understand and respect the journey of others and to work together to help each other achieve their goals. Regardless of level, each fencer can help their teammates by training together with their best efforts and keeping each other mindful of the fun and joy they share together in their love of fencing.