Foil Camp 2026:
French & Italian

Delve into the art & science of the foil

South Bend, Indiana
June 25-29, 2026

Embark on a 3 1/2 day journey into the refined arts of French and Italian foil fencing, exploring the distinct philosophies and techniques that define each. This camp is designed for both newcomers who want an introduction and experienced fencers seeking to refine their skills and understanding.

Where: Bethel University
South Bend, Indiana

When: June 25th – 29th, 2026

Cost: See Pricing and Packages Below

REGISTER HERE
Learn About Your Instructors

 

Jared Kirby

Maestro Jared Kirby has been involved in Historical/Classical Fencing and Combat for Screen & Stage for over 30 years. He teaches in New York City (and the metro area) and has worked on Broadway, Off-Broadway, Nationally, in London and Sydney.

Maestro Kirby released “The Gentleman’s Guide to Duelling” in February 2014. This is an modern British English version of Vincentio Saviolo’s Code Duello which is the foundation of the training for this Experience.

Jared currently teaches fencing at SUNY Purchase, and is a Master of Arms (Maestro d’Armi) through the Martinez Academy of Arms. He teaches a variety of workshops across the US and around the world including Canada, England, Scotland, Finland, Italy, Spain, France and Australia. He has taught at the Paddy Crean International Art of the Sword Workshop, the International Swordfighting and Martial Arts Convention (ISMAC), Rapier Camp and the Western Washington WMA Workshop just to name a few.

Jared is the editor and one of the translators of “Italian Rapier Combat”, the first complete, professional translation of Capo Ferro. He is also the editor and wrote the introduction for “The School of Fencing” by Domenico Angelo and annotated by Maestro Jeannette Acosta-Martínez. Most recently “The Gentleman’s Guide to Duelling” was released in February 2014 and a reprint of Donald McBane’s The Expert Swordsman’s Companion was released in January 2017. For more information, see Amazon.com.

As a Fight Coordinator, Jared has worked with stars such as Peter Sarsgaard, Steve Guttenberg, Cameron Douglas and has trained performers who are working on hit shows. He is a member of Actor’s Equity and SAG/AFTRA. As a Stunt Performer he has worked on films like IF (with Ryan Reynolds) and Confess Fletch (with Jon Hamm) shows like Law & Order: Organized Crime, The Gilded Age, Bull, The Equalizer, Dickinson, Lisey’s Story, Prodigal Son, Blue Bloods, City on a Hill, and Gotham.

He is the past president of Combat Con in Las Vegas, past president of Art of Combat, and served for six years on the board of the International Order of the Sword & Pen.

Take a Look at the Event Schedule

(Schedule subject to change)


Meals will be held at the University Dining Commons

Thursday:
Arrive and get settled
6:00pm: Dinner/Meet & Greet with Instructors & fellow fencers.

Friday:
8:00am-10:00am: Breakfast
10:00am – 1:00pm: Classes and Training
1:00pm – 2:00pm: Lunch
2:00pm – 5:00pm: Classes and Training
5:00pm – 7:00pm: Dinner
7:00pm: Lecture

Saturday:
8:00am-10:00am: Breakfast
 10:00am – 1:00pm: Classes and Training
1:00pm – 2:00pm:  Lunch
2:00pm – 5:00pm: Classes and Training
5:00pm – 7:00pm: Dinner
7:00pm: Fencing

Sunday:
8:00am-10:00am: Breakfast
10:00am – 1:00pm: Classes and Training
1:00pm – 2:00pm:  Lunch
2:00pm – 5:00pm: Classes and Training
5:00pm – 7:00pm: Dinner
7pm: TBD

Monday:
8:00am-10:00am: Breakfast
Checkout
Lunch

Required Equipment

-A Fencing Mask & Jacket
-A Glove for the weapon hand
-A French or Italian Foil
*Chest and Groin Protection are also highly recommended*
(loaner equipment may be available. Please contact us at info@combatcon.com to find out)

Design Your Experience (Pricing & Packages)

Select the option that works for you! Registration includes both lodging and meals (Dorm-style rooms)

Single Room ($950): Join in on the training PLUS having a single occupancy room all to yourself.
Double Room ($850): Join in on the training PLUS having a double occupancy room. Let us know if you have a preferred roommate
I’m Here to Train ($450): Join us for Foil Camp only (does NOT include accommodations)

Program Highlights

Pick Your Track– Choose between French or Italian foil fencing for your daily classes.

Train Your Body & Mind– To pair with the physical training, one night will include a discussion on fencing theory, history, and application.

All Skill Levels Welcome– This camp is an excellent opportuinity for new fencers and seasoned martial artists alike!

Form, Function, and Philosophy

This year’s theme centers form and function in fencing. As the Martinez Academy Maestros will emphasizes; Form and function are never separated. The form was created to ensure that the function is efficient.

  • French Foil: Emphasizes subtlety, economy of movement, and tactile sensitivity. The French school focuses on precise blade placement and minimal physical exertion, cultivating a refined use of the weapon.

  • Italian Foil: Characterized by strong footwork, aggressive blade control, and a lower, wider stance. The Italian tradition, particularly the northern variant, emphasizes tempo actions and draws from its rapier lineage.

Lectures & Discussion

Evening Lectures May Explore:

  • The foundations of fencing: concepts, terms, and principles

  • Similarities and contrasts between French and Italian foil traditions

  • The role of form in efficient fencing function

Why Should I Attend?

This camp offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of French and Italian foil fencing. Under expert instruction, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the philosophical underpinnings and technical nuances that define each style, enhancing both your understanding and practice of the art.