Swordplay LA

Swordplay LA is a modern combat academy where students train in fencing, stunt fighting, historical European martial arts (HEMA), pro-wrestling, performance combat, film fighting weapons, hand-to-hand work, full contact sparring, and athletic training. The program includes a three-weapon fencing club with foil, epee, and sabre, a youth competitive fencing program, youth HEMA classes, a stunt fighting curriculum, and a Pro-Wrestling Program with in-ring training and skill milestones. Students train alongside others rather than in isolation in an environment described as both welcoming and driven, with an inclusive community for combat and creative expression that serves athletes, actors, stunt performers, and students who value mastery, realism, and refinement.

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Schedule: Class options are available on weekday mornings and evenings, as well as on Saturdays and Sundays.
• Price: free class / free trial available

Swordplay LA’s mission is to empower individuals through a diverse range of programs, including a competitive fencing program, professional stunt fighting program, HEMA classes, and athletic training. The HEMA program is available for individuals interested in European swordsmanship and is also extended to fencing and stunt students to supplement training with full contact sparring. The stunt program includes film fighting weapons, hand-to-hand training, set safety and etiquette, and fight choreography for adult students and action actors. The Pro-Wrestling Program tracks progress through skill milestones, technical mastery, and in-class performance and is open to students who want to train professionally or simply try the program. The program also focuses on speed, agility, and strength training to develop dynamic and well-rounded athletes, and offers a free class or free trial.

Owner Mary Sola Spohn is the swords, fencing, and weapons trainer at Swordplay LA. She has over 20 years of experience in fencing, has earned multiple national medals, and received an NCAA Division 1 fencing scholarship. She has worked as a stunt actor, fight choreographer, and fight trainer, specializing in onscreen European swords, fencing, and fight choreography, and has trained A-list celebrity talent, Academy Award–winning actors, Olympic athletes, and child film and television stars. Families can also connect with other participants through the Swordplay LA Discord community.

Last updated July 21, 2026.