Under the direction of former World and Pan American Games Champion Joaquin Tack-Fang, Miami-Dade Parks Fencing Program teaches youth ages 9-17 and adults the tactical gamesmanship and elegant physical techniques associated with this popular Olympic sport.
Open to both males and females, the year-round program utilizes all three weapons: foil, epee and sabre. Students train and compete in regulation fencing attire, which includes a mask and a full-body protective suit.
Since it’s inception in 2001, more than a thousand people have taken lessons and hundreds have competed in tournaments.
The program hosted the 2003 Southeast Section Fencing Championships, where more than 200 top fencers from Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Virginia and Tennessee competed for national titles.
Health Benefits of Fencing
The art of fencing has inspired many adventurous tales, from pirates to musketeers to duels of love. Besides its entertainment value, fencing is beneficial to our health.
A complex sport of footwork, lunges and escape moves, fencing offers participants a physical and mental workout. Referred to as “physical chess,” fencing requires dexterity, endurance and discipline.
Participants will develop a sense of self-worth as individuals and team players as they participate in competitions.
Competitions
Participants can compete in local, regional, state and national tournaments sponsored by the United States Fencing Association, the Florida Sunshine Games, Miami-Dade Parks and other organizations and clubs.
About the Staff
Joaquin Tack-Fang, the program’s coordinator, is a former World and Pan American Games Champion. He started the Miami-Dade Parks program in 2001. Tack-Fang is certified by the United States Fencing Coaching Association.
Mike Elder has been fencing since 1958 and has taught fencing locally. Elder is certified by the United States Fencing Coaching Association.
Sebastian Cousins is a former student of the Miami-Dade Parks Fencing Program. He placed 2nd in the 2003 Southeast Section Fencing Championships. He has aspirations of competing in the 2008 Olympics.
Fencing Program Locations:
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Mondays and Wednesdays, 4 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
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NFL YET Center at Gwen Cherry Park
7090 NW 22 Ave., 305-694-4889
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Sgt. Delancy Park
14450 Boggs Dr., 305-235-4503
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Mondays and Thursdays, 4 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
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Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Fencing Program for Children with Disabilities
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On Guard for Autism at Coral Estates Park
1405 SW 97th Ave.
305-226-1622
Who: Children 6 and up w/ Autism
When: Tuesdays
Times: 5pm-6pm
Cost: $75
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Friday Fencing Club at Tamiami Park
11201 SW 24th St.
305-222-2128
Who: Children ages 10-20 w/ physical disabilities
When: Fridays
Times: 5:30pm-7:00pm
Cost: $90
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