Academy of Fencing Masters

Academy of Fencing Masters offers fencing classes that include Introduction to Fencing, epee fencing, and private lessons. The program also involves competitions as part of its fencing activities. Classes are held in a state-of-the-art facility with top-notch facilities that offer a clean, organized, and dynamic learning environment.

• Ages: 4–18 years old

Since 2013, the Academy of Fencing Masters has been open to anyone eager to experience fencing with the Academy of Fencing Masters. The program offers fencing classes for all ages and skill levels and is dedicated to nurturing and inspiring fencers of all levels, from beginners to elite athletes. It is one of the country’s largest and best fencing clubs specializing in epee fencing and has vibrant locations in Campbell and Sunnyvale, CA.

The world-class coaching team is led by Italian National Coach Carmine Carpenito and includes five Olympians, four World Champions, and international fencing stars, including national teams coaches. The leadership team includes Irina Chirashnya (CEO), Igor Chirashnya (Program Director), Carmine Carpenito (Head Coach), Gregory Bremel (Coach), David Baumert (Coach), Adam Chirashnya (Coach), Samuel Gallagher Pelletier (Coach), Ruperto Gascon (Coach), Ziad Khayat (Coach), Jean Michel Lucenay (Coach), Alexander Maximovich (Coach), Natasha Maximovich (Coach), Vivien Maya (Coach), Mika Chirashnya (Assistant Coach), and Julia Machulsky (Customer Success Manager). Each student receives personal attention during each class, private lesson, and competitions, and coaches are described as mentors and friends who are passionate about sharing their love for the sport.

Academy of Fencing Masters is home to Olympic and World Medalists, USA champions, national team members, and World Cup medalists. AFM is the only US fencing club to win the USA Fencing Club of Excellence Award four times, in 2016, 2021, 2022, and 2023, and is the only fencing club in the country to be recognized by the US Congress with a Special Congressional Recognition Award for its contribution in development of the sport of fencing. AFM is described as a family club that prides itself on building a strong community, and the academy feels like home while maintaining the highest professional standards.

The mission of Academy of Fencing Masters is to help its families, contribute to the fencing community, and make the sport of fencing a well-loved part of many lives. One parent, Alex L., notes that the knowledgeable and dedicated coaching staff provides exceptional instruction in the art of fencing and understands how to cater to children’s unique needs and learning styles, making each class engaging and enjoyable, and that their child has gained a deep appreciation for the sport while also improving physical fitness, coordination, and mental focus. Another parent, Manali J., reports that their daughter has learned a lot at AFM, has shown tremendous improvement, started winning medals, and became confident in herself and a good athlete. John C. describes the staff as world-class trainers and enthusiasts who want to pass their love of the sport on to a new generation of champions. Daryna M. describes the facility as absolutely stunning, with top-notch coaching professionals offering high-quality training for all ages, a caring and loving atmosphere, and personal attention for each student during each class, private lesson, and competitions.

Last updated June 30, 2026.