Workshops and Instructors

Federico Malagutti

  • Federico Malagutti is an Italian martial artist, Historical European Martial Arts instructor, competitive swordsman, and content creator known for his deep engagement with medieval and Renaissance swordsmanship. He lives and trains in Valsesia, a small valley in northern Piedmont, Italy, and has been practicing swordsmanship since 2011, with a primary focus on the techniques and combat systems of the 14th- to early 15th-century European martial tradition.

    Malagutti’s journey into HEMA began with historical reenactment and evolved into a dedicated study of European martial arts, leading him to become a teacher. He has regularly taught and held seminars throughout Italy, Austria, France, Spain, Switzerland, Slovakia, Poland, and the United States, with a primary focus on his interpretation of Fiore dei Liberi.

    In addition to his instructional work, Malagutti regularly competes in tournaments and studies other martial arts. He has practiced Jōdō, traditional jujutsu, aikido, and kickboxing for several years each.

    He is perhaps best known online for his YouTube channel, where he produces educational videos on historical fencing techniques, martial principles, and the broader culture of HEMA practice. His digital presence extends to Instagram, Facebook, and Patreon, through which he engages with a global audience of practitioners and enthusiasts.

    Malagutti’s work aims to bridge the gap between historical research and practical application, emphasizing both the intellectual understanding of martial sources and their embodied realization in modern practice.

  • Description : The first play described by Maestro Fiore, the “Crossing at the tip of the sword”, in his book, is one of the most relevant of his system while, at the same time, one of the most misunderstood.
    This seminar will go through its interpretation and application, exploding this principle into several technical applications.

    Requirements: Full gear for the upper body and longsword/feder

    Level : Intermediate

  • Description : One of the most common problems in longsword fencing is related to the defense of the outside line.
    This seminar will explore the various defensive possibilities to parry on the outside, connecting them together into a coherent defensive scheme, using Fiore’s poste as a framework.

    Requirements: Full gear for the upper body and longsword/feder

    Level : Beginner / Intermediate

  • Description : The I.33 manual starts with a technique named “Falling under Sword and Shield”. This technique doesn’t only open up the manual, but it also opens up the various plays of the system.
    This seminar will go through its interpretation and will connect the play with the most important options presented in the manual itself.

    Requirements: Full gear for the upper body, arming sword and buckler

    Level : Intermediate

  • Description : Being on the offense with a clear plan isn’t easy, but with sword and buckler it’s even more complex to deliver a clean offense, while avoiding doubles:

    In this seminar we will learn various openings with Sword and Buckler, meant to overcome the opponent defense while trying to remain untouched in the process.

    Level: Intermediate 

    Equipment: Full equipment for upper and lower body.

Fabrice Cognot

  • Fabrice Cognot first discovered the existence of fencing treatises and other fight books in 1994; but it was in 2000 that, thanks to the Internet, he began to devote himself to their study. He quickly joined a budding network of enthusiasts, exchanging with the pioneers of this rediscovery both online and in person, and it was in 2002 — when the need to gather together became obvious and inevitable — that he organised the first International Historical European Martial Arts Gathering (Rencontres Internationales d'Arts Martiaux Historiques Européens), in Dijon. He founded De Taille et d'Estoc in 2003 (which he chaired until 2020), and has since had the honour of being invited as an instructor or lecturer in many countries and across several continents, with these travels affording him the opportunity to study various sources of our beloved HEMA firsthand. In 2011 he served as associate curator for the exhibition The Sword — Uses, Myths and Symbols at the Musée National du Moyen-Âge in Paris. He defended his thesis on medieval arms and armour (and their use) in 2013, and has since been working full-time as a bladesmith and knifemaker in Dijon (Burgundy).

  • Description : The Cod. Ⅰ.6.4º.2 from the Universitätsbibliothek Augsburg presents 8 pages dedicated to combat with the Long Knife; we will endeavour to uncover its principles and, time permitting, explore the plays found in other sources for this weapon belonging to the so-called Augsburg group — including against a longsword

    Requirements: A mask, gloves and a messer. Sidesword or arming sword can do the job.

    Level : Beginner friendly

  • Description : A (too) brief overview of the technical, technological, morphological and societal developments in the practice of edged weapons in pre-industrial Europe

    Language: French

  • Description : The 1537 wrestling treatise by Fabian Von Auerswald, who taught under John Frederick I 'The Magnanimous', Elector Duke of Saxony (later Landgrave of Thuringia), magnificently illustrated by Lucas Cranach the Elder, shows us some pieces from an amusing, asymmetrical wrestling game in which one protagonist stands with one foot in a small circular pit dug into the ground and is forbidden from leaving it, while the other is obliged to move on one foot only. Let's see how that goes.

    Requirements: Sport clothes

    Level : Beginner friendly

Keshava Archibald

  • Keshava Archibald first began training in Martial Arts in 2008, at the age of 5, in Boquete Panama where he trained in Taekwondo for 4 years, getting his red belt at 9 years old. Then in 2013 when he was 11 he began training in kickboxing and jiu-jitsu. He got his blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu in 2018 and he continues to actively compete at local grappling tournaments. Keshava's first introduction to historical fencing was at the Glengarry Highland Games in 2022, where he took a strong interest in singlestick and Highland Broadsword. Thereafter, he began regularly training with the Glengarry Broadsword Academy along with his younger brothers. He was enrolled in the instructor development program and in the summer of 2025 qualified as a level 1 instructor under US Acli, following examination by Maestro Francesco Lodà and Maestro Stefano Ciamei. He also has competed well in An Cruinneachadh and other local and regional historical fencing tournaments. Kesh is a multi time medalist in Single Stick, Highland Broadsword and Small Sword, with a developing interest in Rapier, Rapier and Dagger and, most recently, Sword and Buckler

    Keshava is the Glengarry Broadsword Academy team lead for exploring the Wrestling chapter of Zachary Wylde's 1711 treatise, The English Master of Defence

  • Description : In this class we’ll explore 18th-century British Isles wrestling as described in Zachary Wylde’s English Art of Defence. This system bridges styles such as Cornish Hug wrestling and Devonshire wrestling, offering insight into the foundations of what would later develop into catch-as-catch-can and modern folkstyle wrestling.

    We’ll begin with a short introduction and demonstration of techniques from Wylde’s text with throws, trips, and takedowns, including some methods that are too dangerous to train but important for understanding the full system. The goal is to give a clear picture of what this style of wrestling actually looked like and how it might have been applied in combat.

    The rest of the class will be hands-on. We’ll work on breakfalls, balance, and basic grappling mechanics, then move into simple drills and games that will allow you to develop real skill in applying some core principles and basic techniques. These exercises are designed to help you feel how the system works and give you tools you can carry into sparring or other martial arts.

    No prior wrestling experience is needed—this class is open to all levels and especially useful for anyone looking to add grappling to their HEMA practice.

    Equipment: None required, but a Judo or Jiu-jitsu Gi is recommended for some techniques. 

    Level: All levels

    Led by Keshava Archibald, assisted by Pearson Fraser

Christina Beaulieu

  • Christina has been practicing HEMA since 2017, where she started at Boston Armizare. A Fiorist at heart, Christina has 6 gold medals in Women’s/URG Longsword categories. She is currently an instructor at both Boston Armizare and Moose Historical Fencing in Maine, and has competed and coached all over the US and internationally. Outside of HEMA, she is a massive nerd who loves dragons and singing.

  • Description : In this class we’ll be introducing and refining the technique of wrapping the arms or sword of your opponent from the left bind. The when, where, why, and how to get in safely and score with control. No previous knowledge of Fiore is required, and there will be plenty to learn at all levels of skill.

    Minimum Equipment Required: Sword, Mask, Gloves, Gorget, Jacket and Plastron strongly recommended.

    Preferred Equipment: Full steel longsword kit from waist up.

    Level : Beginner, no previous knowledge of Fiore is required, and there will be plenty to learn at all levels of skill.

Patrick Bratton

  • Patrick Bratton is the head instructor of Sala della Spada Historical Fencing. He is a certified fencing instructor from Unione Sportiva Acli (Italy), United States Fencing Coaches Association, and the Sonoma State University Fencing Masters Program.  He is a student of Chris Holzman and Andrew Bullock, both from the Santelli lineage of fencing.  He has also trained with leading European instructors and competitors - Maestro Francesco Lodà, and Maestro Ton Puey.  Patrick specializes in Northern Italian military sabre and Southern/Neapolitan rapier and dueling sword.  He is one of the organizers and instructors at the annual American Smallsword Symposium.  He has earned several medals in tournaments in sabre, smallsword, and other events.  He has taught at the Cambridge Assault of Arms, SERFO, Brassfrog Assault of Arms, Funfecht, Athena School of Arms, Winston-Selem Fencing Academy, Academia Romana d'Armi (Italy), and in 2022 was the lead instructor at Sabre Slash in Prague, the Czech Republic.  

  • Description : Often called “Italian dueling sabre” this system’s origins are actually in a military system based off Radelli’s military experience in the Italian Wars of Unification. The class will cover the guard position, foot work, the six basic circular cuts (moulinets), simple attacks, actions on the blade, and simple parries. necessary).

    Minimum equipment : asic hema/historical fencing kit (mask, jacket, glove, hard forearm/elbow, etc.) and a sabre/broadsword..

    Minimal level : Beginner/Intermediate

Niles Cerro

  • Coming soon

  • Description :   Learn to swing a greatsword without hurting yourself or anyone else. I’ll be teaching the basics of Diogo Gomes de Figueyredo, translated by Eric Myers. We will go over body mechanics and how to move with a sword of roughly your height or larger.  After the basics of how to move, we will look at plays for how to monopolize space, guard a person/package, fight another

    Requirement : No gear necessary except for a Montante.  I will do what I can to supply as many as I can but you will be fine using a long Feder and I will pass my loaners around throughout the lesson.  They will also be available for most of the weekend to try out.  Just ask and I’m happy to help or let you play around. Puffy pants optional, not for practical reasons but to get the full Landsknecht experience.  In fact, it will probably make it more difficult, but you will have a +3 in Charisma.

    Level : Beginner

  • Description : We will be taking a look at Paulus Hector Mair’s Poleaxe treatise.  Come learn about the versatility of the Swiss-army- knife of medieval weapons and learn why “Pole-arms” are “Best-arms”.  This will include both armored, partially armored and unarmored combat. 

    Requirement : For this class, you will need no gear other than a Feder and mask.  We will explore some partnered drills at low speeds but you can bring your full gear to try out my poleaxes afterwards or over the weekend. Again, puffy pants optional, not for practical reasons but to get the full Landsknecht experience.

    Level : Beginner

Philippe Charlebois

  • Philippe started HEMA at De taille et d’estoc, a small group that few have ever heard off. There, he developed a strong passion for 16th century martial arts, specifically for Meyer’s longsword,

    dussack

    , dagger, a bit of pikes and the martial context around german fechtschule. He gave workshops in various events on longsword, translated parts of Peter Falkner, transcribed parts of Pringle Green, founded Sherbrooke’s club of HEMA and taught longsword for years. Lately, he is busy organizing a small convention that you might have heard of : Amici Armis.

    He likes to fight. Come fight him, he’ll be happy and you too.

  • Description :   In this workshop, we’ll make our way through the dussack section of the Cod.Guelf-83-4 Aug.8, also known as the little fat (and bloody) man treatise. We’ll start with a short introduction on the context, it will help us understand the logic behind the technics and postures. Then, we’ll work on some dussack and body movements used in that treatise to facilitate the learning process. Afterward, we’ll train various technics shown in the treatise. Beware, some involve wrestling. The final goal will be to spar with an esthetical focus : to look like those fat and awesome men. No need to be fat, nor a man, to be awesome like they are, just a dussack and your fabulous self.

    Level : Beginner friendly

    Equipment : Light gloves, mask and a dussack. We’ll have around 12 loaners.

Maxime Chouinard

  • Maxime started training in 1997 with Kyokushin karate in his hometown of Sainte-Anne des Monts. In 2002, he started to practice and research Historical Martial Arts, focusing on military sabre, La Canne and Le Baton. The same year, he also started practicing Japanese kenjutsu, becoming an instructor in Shinkendo, Toyama Ryu and Hyoho Niten Ichi Ryu. Over the years, he also trained in Canne de combat, Yagyu Shinkage Ryu, Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Olympic fencing. In 2007, he travelled to Ireland, where he was introduced to Antrim Bata, a style of bataireacht or Irish stick, which he started teaching in 2009. He now works to promote this art around the world, and is heading Antrim Bata internationally. 

    Maxime has been teaching, competing and researching historical fencing ever since, specializing in sabre and Irish stick. He organized training groups in Quebec City and Kingston, before moving to Ottawa in 2018. He also organized three editions of the Symposium des Arts Martiaux Historiques in Quebec City and Montreal, and has taught workshops and seminars in Canada, USA, Ireland, Mexico, France and Norway. He publishes regular articles on his blog Hema misfits (I don’t do longsword) on the history and practice of historical martial arts.

    In his daily life, Maxime works for Parks Canada, where he supervises the national historical collection. He holds a BA in Archaeology from Laval University, and a Master in Cultural Heritage from Deakin University, and is trained as an Historical Weapons Supervisor with Parks Canada.

  • Description : From the Viking invasions to the 17th century, the axe was one of the main weapons carried by the warriors of Ireland. Descriptions of their use in the 12th century bear certain striking similarities to Irish stick fighting as we know it. This formal comparative analysis brings new perspective on some of the main issues of axe fighting, namely the lack of a hand guard. This workshop will show how techniques from Antrim Bata can be directly applicable to the type of axes carried by Irish kerns and gallowglasses of medieval Ireland, and open new perspectives for experimentation on the subject.

    Equipment Required:

    Level : All levels

  • Description : It is often believed that French fencing, especially by the 18th and 19th centuries, was all about fighting on a linear plane. This workshop will hopefully dispel this myth by introducing the concept of the volte: techniques that involve stepping offline to either attack or defend. The volte is relatively well known in the realms of rapier or even smallsword fencing, but sabre fencing has long been associated with strictly back and forth footwork.  In this workshop, we will look at techniques mainly from the lessons of Billès and Wachter (1862), Alexandre Valville (1817) and J.A. de Saint-Martin (1804) where offline movements are presented. More importantly, we will not only look at the techniques, but also at the strategic and tactical reasons for using- or not using - voltes in fencing. 

    Equipement : TBD

    Level : Intermediate and advanced

Jordi Creus Arnau

  • My name is Jordi Creus Arnau, I am 39 and I am from Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. I like to present myself as a microbiologist, hatter and historical fencer.

    I started HEMA in 2018 as a student in the club I practice in Barcelona Duo Bellum, where I started learning La Verdadera Destreza with rapier, rapier and dagger and sabre.

    Later in 2022 I moved to Montreal, Canada and I joined La Compagnie Médiévale and I started teaching as an instructor of la Verdadera Destreza with rapier. In Montreal I also started practising Irish stick fighting.

    In 2025 I moved back to Barcelona and I continued teaching La Verdadera Destreza in my first club, Duo Bellum.

    At the moment I keep working and learning with both clubs, the goal is to improve the knowledge of destreza on both sides of the ocean.
    I consider myself a very technical fencer, prioritizing the control of the fight and not being touched more than touching the opponent as much as I can.

  • Description : This workshop follows the teachings of the manual "Tratado Completo de la esgrima del sable español" by Don Jaime Merelo y Casademunt, 1862.

    The goal of this workshop is to teach the basic theory and mechanics that Don Jaime Merelo y Casadamunt put together as a military sabre style for the Spanish army in the XIX century based on the spanish fencing system, La Verdadera Destreza, from the XVI century.

    We will learn how La Verdadera Destreza system from the XVI century was adapted to sabre to create a safe and efficient sabre style keeping the same destreza basis.

    Also we will learn the particularities of the style like the footwork, the parries, the thrusts, atajo and disarm.

    At the end of the workshop the student should be able to see the difference between the spanish sabre and other european styles.

    I recommend this workshop for people interested in sabre or la verdadera destreza to add more tools in their fencing knowledge.

    Equipment Required: Sabre (curve or straight blade), any gloves (preferible light or medium), mask and forearm protector. 

    Level : Intermediate level.

David Farley Chevrier

  • David Farley Chevrier has been practising historical fencing for a dozen years, with a focus on 18th century French smallsword, which he learnt under Kevin Côté. He’s been in charge of historical fencing at Escrime Mont-Royal since 2018, where he also serves on the board of directors. Dave also teaches stage fencing as well as coordinating fights for both plays & videos. 


  • Description : This workshop will show the basis of the 18th century French School of the smallsword. Participants will learn the main parries & attacks, as well as some of the theoretical aspects of the system. By the end of the session, participants should be able to hold their on in a bout.

    Equipment Required: TBD

    Level : Beginner/Intermediate

Drummond Fraser

  • Drummond is the head instructor for Glengarry Broadsword Academy in Alexandria, ON, a passionate coach, and qualified in 2025 as a Level 2 Historical Fencing Instructor under US Acli following examination by Maestro Francesco Lodà and Maestro Stefano Ciamei. Drummond had been teaching Historical Fencing since 2015, primarily focusing on Single Stick, Highland Broadsword and Small Sword. He also trains and competes in Epee (sport fencing) and is currently pursuing certification as an Epee coach within the Canadian Fencing Federation (CFF). Drummond's original martial disciplines are Judo, Aikido and Boxing. He is also an avid instructor in a number of outdoor education activities, team and individual sports. Drummond retired from the Canadian Armed forces in 2017 following a 30 year career, including overseas deployments. 

  • Description : Zachary Wylde (The English Master of Defence, 1711) viewed Smallsword as the foundation for all fencing. This Smallsword workshop, inspired by and partially based on Zachary Wylde's chapter on "the true art of the Single Rapier", develops fencing fundamentals that will sharpen smallsword skills and help development skills applicable to a range of other fencing disciplines. This class is an excellent lead in to the subsequent workshop on Broadsword led by Pearson Fraser

    Equipment: Fencing protective clothing and equipment. Smallswords are available on loan for participants who do not have their own.

    Levels: Beginner to Intermediate. No prior experience with Smallsword is required. Experienced Smallsword fencers will also benefit.

    Led by Drummond Fraser, assisted by Pearson Fraser and Keshava Archibald.

Pearson Fraser

  • Pearson has been a lifelong fencer, starting at age 5 with Modern Olympic Épée, and at age 6 receiving his yellow badge in the sport. He later transitioned to historical fencing, focusing on Smallsword, Single Stick and later Highland Broadsword and Rapier (Roman/Neapolitan system). Within these disciplines he has trained under notable fencers and coaches such as Maestro Francesco Lodà, Maestro Stefano Ciamei, Maestra Silvia Tomasetti, ARA senior instructor Marco Vulcano, Maestro Jay Maes, Maestro Xian Niles, Maestro André Hajjar, and Sydney School of Defense Head Instructor Paul Wagner in historical fencing, and Kanata Fencing Head Instructor Jonathan Rennick in Epee, Bob Rennick in modern Sabre, as well as his head coach Drummond Fraser. Pearson travelled to Rome in 2025 to train with the Academia Romana d’Armi (ARA) led by Maestro Francesco Lodà. In the summer of 2025 he received his US-Acli Historical Fencing Instructor at arms Level I certificate after testing from Maestro Francesco Lodà and Maestro Stefano Ciamei, both of ARA. Pearson has been a multi time medalist within his disciplines at both the U18 division level and the open divisions, including being the 3 time An Cruinneachadh National U18 smallsword gold medalist. He has also competed and medaled throughout Ontario and Quebec in the open division. Pearson returned to modern Olympic Épée where he won a bronze in the 2025 Quebec provincial men’s Cadet Épée (U17) circuit, and finished his cadet season ranked 9th in Quebec for his division. Pearson has been an avid and versatile athlete competing in many other sports including badminton, soccer, basketball, track and field, crosscountry skiing and curling, and is a strong canoeist and outdoorsman.

    Pearson has a major passion for fencing, both as a competitive athlete but also as a coach, working with young children and seniors through to intermediate and advanced level athletes.

    Pearson is the Glengarry Broadsword Academy team lead for exploring the Small Sword and Broadsword chapters of Zachary Wylde's 1711 treatise, The English Master of Defence

  • Description : This workshop will explore the techniques and tactics of Scottish and English use of the Basket hilted broadsword. Throughout this workshop we will explore the fundamental techniques including footwork, simple attacks, parry ripostes and simple compound actions. We will also explore the tactics of the system, including setting up attacks and 2nd intention actions. This workshop will be largely based off of Zachery Wylde’s broadsword system (published in 1711) though will explore themes from other masters of the era. This workshop will explore all the major bases in order to effectively fence with the basket hilted broadsword

    Equipment: Appropriate heavy HEMA protective clothing and equipment, including back of the head protection. Participants are welcome to use any one handed sword. Some Broadswords (limited) and Singlesticks (larger number) will be available on loan, on a first-come-first-served basis.

    Levels: Beginner to Intermediate


    Led by Pearson Fraser, assisted by Keshava Archibadl and Drummond Fraser

Jaimie-Lynn Leblanc-Ykema

  • Coming from a farming town in Godmanchester Quebec, my first art was nothing of martial but rather equestrian gymkhana racing. Following my years of being an equestrian, I sought to do mounted combat, and in doing so, realized a passion for the blade.

    Started SCA heavy combat in 2019 right before the pandemic and was off fighting for the following years until in 2024 when I got introduced to rapier combat. Joined the HEMA club Destreza Nova Laval under the teaching of André Hajjar in 2024 and competed in several tournaments in both SCA and HEMA, with respectable results. To this day, I continue my study of HEMA and focus on my improvement in many weapon forms, with my preference being in sidesword and rapier.

  • Description : This workshop focuses primarily upon the psychological and physical considerations when one is to face a left-handed fighter within a bout between swords.

    Psychologically, the big question to pose and address: why do left-handed fencers have a statistically higher rate of success than their right-handed counterparts?

    Our goal is to learn what to expect when facing a left-handed fighter within a bout. I’ll be going over the common misconceptions within the sport, logic, basic statistics as well as techniques to approach a “lefty”. Extrapolating insights from Fabris, Thibault and Capo Ferro; we will go over positioning of sword and body in order to maximize advantage and control. There are many weapon forms that can covered within this topic but I will be mainly covering with rapier.

    Equipment Required: Coming soon

    Level : This is a class that touches upon concepts that I would consider more important to beginner and intermediate fencers.

Evan Macdonald

  • Evan is an instructor from Kingston, Ontario. His sword journey started in 2018 with Ironwood Sword School, later also joining Broadsword Academy Kingston in 2022. Training primarily with the Longsword in the German tradition of Lichtenauer/ Ringeck, Danzig & Lew, later discovering the messer and diving into the tome of Leckuchers Kunst des Messerfechten. Alongside historical fencing Evan also has an interest in trad archery and barebow shooting.

  • Description : This workshop explores close-range Messer fighting, Overrunning to give pressure and gain control using some practical and some more flashy techniques. Using plays and counters from Leckuchners Kunst des Messer Fechten, we’ll work on entering bravely into the fight and wrestling at the sword arm. We’ll also examine disarms and how to apply them through mechanics, not strength. This workshop treats the Messer not just as a cutting weapon, but as a tool for decisive close combat.

    Equipment Required: Messe, mask, gorget. gloves, elbows and forearms recommended

    Level : Suitable for any level of pracitioner

David Mène

  • David has been practicing HEMA since 2012. His multidisciplinary approach has allowed him to develop in-depth expertise in several systems, with a specialization in the Bolognese tradition of the sidesword according to Achille Marozzo and Giovanni Dall’Agocchie, and the sword and buckler system of Antonio Manciolino, which he teaches regularly. His instruction emphasizes technical rigor, biomechanics, and tactical awareness, while making the techniques and historical sources accessible and easy to understand.

    A seasoned fighter, he has competed in numerous tournaments and won several international medals in sidesword and sword and buckler. An instructor at the Compagnie Médiévale since 2015, he frequently leads workshops, organizes events, and in 2024 co-founded the Montreal tournament Warrior’s Edge.

    A passionate teacher deeply involved in the community, David enjoys sharing his knowledge and strives to guide each student in their progression by creating an environment where beginners and more experienced fencers enjoy practicing together.

  • Description : This workshop explores strategies of provocation, transitions, and control of the fight according to several Bolognese sources, including the Opera Nova by Antonio Manciolino and the Bolognese Anonimo. Participants will discover how to trigger an opponent’s reaction, create openings, and transition efficiently between positions and guards in order to quickly seize the initiative and impose their tempo.

    During the workshop, we will place particular emphasis on three essential aspects of fighting: how to provoke and invite effectively while remaining safe, how to move from one guard to another while maintaining safety, and most importantly, how to control the exchange by combining structure, tempo, and distance in order to impose your tempo and your strategy.

    The workshop will begin with several parry/riposte maneuvers in both high and low guards, while learning to transition smoothly between different guards during movement. Participants will also work on mastering entry into and exit from the danger zone in order to gain both safety and efficiency.

    Once these foundations are established, we will focus on the approach game and invitations, on tempo breaks using both the false and true edge, as well as on the different options for counterattacks and retreats.

    Equipment Required: Full upper-body protective equipment, a sidesword or arming sword + a buckler.

    Level : Intermediate / Advanced

  • Description : Based on the teachings of Captain Péloquin, a French fencing master active at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries and a rare figure of the French martial tradition preserved in surviving sources, this treatise composed of fifty plates stands out notably for its diagrams that superimpose several dimensions. It allows the exploration of a dueling style that combines concepts of the sidesword and the emerging rapier. The manuscript focuses primarily on the technique of fighting with sword and dagger, weapons frequently worn together in duels and civilian confrontations in France at the time. It thus offers a specifically French perspective on swordsmanship during a period when most surviving methods originate from Italy or Germany.

    This workshop offers a living immersion into this transitional fencing system, where both weapons constantly interact and work together to gain control of the line and dominate the center. Emphasis is placed on bilateral coordination, the simultaneous threat of both points, and economy of movement in service of tactical efficiency. Participants will study tirades as drawing actions intended to provoke the opponent’s reaction, cavements as subtle disengagements under blade pressure, batteries as a means of disrupting the opponent’s structure, as well as estramaçons used to break rhythm and create disorganization. Particular attention will be given to the dagger’s deceptive actions, revealing the strategic subtlety of a secondary weapon that remains fully active within the logic of the duel.

    Equipement : Full upper-body protective equipment, a sidesword or rapier + a dagger

    Level : Beginner / Intermediate

Dan Niznik

  • Dan is an instructor hailing from Kingston, Ontario. Since 2018, he has been training with both Ironwood Sword School and Broadsword Academy Kingston. He’s also a key organizer for community events such as Cutting & Combat, Warriors of Wisdom, Frostfecht, and The Krieg.

    He is a common sight at tournaments, and sometimes even on podiums. He also has an interest in the less common arms of history, such as sickles, canes, montantes, and soft weapons. And if you ask him to do some ringen in the dojo over the weekend, you’ll probably get a resounding yes.

  • Description : Let's explore some core German techniques that will have your opponents shouting "ach du lieber!"

    This workshop will teach you the 'plays of the zorn' (a suite of longsword handworks from the bind), while developing your 'fühlen' (feeling) for a more responsive approach to combat. We'll also play with the use of dagger from the belt, a staple of the German duelist.

    The lesson is perfect for those who have yet to train in the German system, or are looking to round out their German skills in the 'krieg' and close plays.

    Equipment Required: Longsword, rondel, and belt. Sparring kit preferred; mask, gorget, and gloves at minimum.

    Level : Intermediate

Jonathan Paulino

  • Jonathan began his journey into Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) in 2017, when he discovered the Philadelphia Common Fencers Guild under the guidance of Connor Kemp-Cowell. His initial studies focused on the Italian tradition, beginning with Fiore dei Liberi's Fior di Battaglia. Soon after, he incorporated the teachings of Filippo Vadi's De Art Gladitoria Dimicandi to supplement and deepen his understanding of Italian longsword. After testing his skills in several tournaments, Jonathan expanded his studies to include some aspects of the German fencing systems. He immersed himself in Joachim Meyer’s works and explored the glosses of the Ringeck-Döbringer-Liechtenauer (RDL) lineage. 

    Today, Jonathan continues to broaden his martial knowledge by delving into the Italian Bolognese sources and the Spanish art of Destreza. His fencing style is an eclectic blend of systems, emphasizing creative application of techniques and tactics drawn from multiple traditions. He’s known for using unexpected angles, unorthodox binds, and adaptive strategies that challenge opponents and showcase the versatility of historical fencing. A passionate educator and sparring partner, Jonathan strives to make complex concepts in HEMA feel intuitive and accessible to both newcomers and seasoned practitioners. Whether you're looking for a thoughtful conversation about martial theory or a friendly bout, Jonathan is always open to connect. Outside of fencing, Jonathan has a passion for Latin dancing and exploring a wide range of other hobbies. Feel free to say hello—and happy fencing!

  • Description : All of Destreza, all at once. The guards, fencing theory, specific techniques, and adaptability to other styles of fencing, specifically with the use of the Longsword. This class will be broken up into a few stages as we work through the system of Destreza and breakdown the vague poetic and very verbos teachings. The class is designed for intermediate and advance fencers, but will touch upon fundamental that every beginner may benefit from. 

    Requirements: Mask, gloves and swords for most of the class. Full kit if fencer would like to practice techniques under pressure. Water! 

    Minimal level : Intermediate, begginers welcome if you like the challenge !.

  • Description : All Vadi, all at once. The guards, fencing theory, specific Vadi techniques, and adaptability to other styles of fencing. This class will be broken up into a few stages as we work through the system of Vadi and breakdown the vague poetic teachings of this little known fencing master. The class is designed to be open to all levels of fencers, but will touch upon topics tailored to everyone from a beginner to veteran fencer. 

    Requirements: Mask, gloves and swords for most of the class. Full kit if fencer would like to practice techniques under pressure. Water! 

François Perreault

  • François has been practicing historical fencing since 2017, begining with longsword at La Compagnie Médiévale, where in 2019 he became an assistant instructor and then a full instructor, teaching this weapon to beginners. At the same time, he finds some 19th French fencing treatise while and quickly discovers a passion for this method. He gives himself the project of learning it during the pandemic and begins teaching it in 2021.

    François joined the Historical Fencing Guild at the end of 2024, shortly before its official foundation the following month of January. There he teaches fencing according to the French method with all its weapons (foil/épée, sabre, bayonet). He puts just as much emphasis in his instruction on the technical quality of actions as on the body mechanics that permit them. Moreover, he is engaged in translating French fencing manuals and treatises for an anglophone audience in his free time. François also occupies the role of Dean at the Guild’s administrative council.

  • Description : This workshop is an introduction to the French school of fencing and the theory of fencing it proposes. In particular, it is focused at highlighting how deeply smallsword theory interrelates with sabre in French fencing and other traditions who pull from the French school, such as British sabre methods for example. It will begin with a short crash course of French smallsword as a primer leading into sabre to demonstrate how the French approach synthesises thrust fencing mechanics with cut fencing to form contre-pointe and espadon. By the end of this workshop you will be fully equipped and capable of understanding and approaching French sources to pursue their study on your own.

    Equipment Required: To be determine

    Level : Beginner-Intermediate level

Kimberleigh Roseblade

  • Kimberleigh (they/them & she/her), known for their distinctive approach as a "Fiorist with a flair," embraced the world of Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) in the spring of 2010 while residing in Vancouver, BC. Since returning to their hometown of Toronto, Ontario, Kimberleigh has been imparting the art of Armizare, as taught by Fiore dei Liberi, at various international HEMA events and symposiums since 2014. A notable moment in their career was in 2016, when Kimberleigh clinched the bronze in Women’s Longsword at Swordsquatch in Seattle, Washington. Kimberleigh teaches abrazare, dagger, and longsword classes at Toronto Historical Combatants every week in their hometown.

    Kimberleigh's expertise extends beyond martial arts into the realm of fitness, where they work as an instructor and coach. They have a keen focus on catering to the specific fitness needs of HEMA practitioners. A significant aspect of their work is ensuring fitness accessibility, specializing in training clients who are disabled, managing chronic conditions, or athletes in recovery post-surgery or injury.

    Passionate about movement and physical activity in all its forms, Kimberleigh's interests are not confined to the martial arts. When not wielding a sword or engaging in strength training, they can be found indulging in swimming, cycling, or dancing.

  • Description :  When faced against the dagger, Fiore says to always do these five things: “take their dagger away, strike them, break their arms, bind them and throw them to the ground.”  How do we know when to attempt each of these different things, depending on what the situation calls for?  In this workshop, students will learn to decipher when their opponent is giving them cues that allow them to feel whether they should disarm their opponent, bind or break them, or throw them to the ground.

    Level : This workshop is open to beginners, and to those already familiar with Fiore’s dagger.  

    Equipment: Masks and Daggers will be needed, light gloves and gorgets can be worn as well.

  • Description : When a dagger is in play Fiore says that you have no other choice but to be bold and you must go at it with everything you have.  Like the ardent lion, you must be courageous (“I welcome all to meet me in battle.”) and it is here where we harness Audatia. You cannot be passive- you do not have the luxury of distance for that.  You cannot be meak or unsure of your actions- you do not have the luxury of time for that.  The dagger moves quick.  The dagger plays in very close space.  In this workshop students will learn to become more comfortable performing aggressive defenses through a series of escalation games that puts into context the true nature of the dagger and how the weapon was used.

    Level : This workshop is best suited for intermediate students who have taken at least a few dagger workshops or classes before.

    Equipment Necessary: Mask, Gorget, Dagger to start, and as the drills become quicker and more aggressive a padded fencing jacket, or gambeson would be heavily advised.

Aurora Simmons

  • Aurora began her work as a martial artist at age 16 in a Taekwondo class. She immediately fell in love with sparring and the infinite complexity of the chess game that is a fight. Her next great love was Jeet Kune Do, an art that brought together many arts into a gestalt of conceptual foundations. When she discovered historical martial arts and the love of longsword, her background in JKD gave her a philosophy of boiling down practice to foundational elements, that has served her well in her study of Fiore. Her strategies have proven their efficacy in countless sparring matches and competitive fights despite her size mismatch with many of her opponents.

  • Description : This seminar will lay the foundational ground work for armoured principles. It is open to folks who have trained longsword for at least a year, do not have armour but think they might want to get into it in the future. It is also suitable for armoured folks who want to hone their skills. It will also allow you to set up some strategies for training armoured techniques even if you don't have armour. 

    We will lay the ground-work for managing the physical limitations created by armour, foundational strategies for armoured fighting, talk about managing size variations in your opponents, and cover a number of armoured techniques from the Fiore Manuscript. This seminar will include wrestling. 

    Level : It is NOT suitable for complete beginners. 

    Equipment requirements : fencing mask, gambeson, gauntlets, rubber or wooden dagger, ( I will have some to loan but bring your own if possible)  A belt to stick your dagger into ( or a dagger suspension if you have one) if possible a blunt longsword. Later time period feders are not the best of this but will work if that's all you have. 

  • Description : This seminar will cover all the ways we can overcome mismatches with our opponents when sparring. We will look at dealing with a much taller or much shorter opponent. Dealing with a much faster opponent and dealing with a much more experienced opponent. This seminar is informed by Fiore, Morozzo and various other martial arts. 

    Level : Suitable for intermediate and up. 

    Equipment requirements : Helmet, gauntlets, longsword (any type) gambeson encouraged.

Marli Vlok

  • Marli is a PhD researcher and former competitive target shooter, who starter her HEMA journey in 2013 at Academie Duello in Vancouver. She immediately fell in love with the art and grace of rapier fencing and Bolognese single sword. She became an instructor in 2014 at Academie Duello and holds the rank of free-scholar at the school. In 2020 she expanded her practice to include Italian classical fencing (sabre, foil, and epee) and historical European flagwaving. Her flagwaving research has focussed primarily on 17th century Italian and German sources, to gain a better understanding of how this art evolved from a battlefield essential, to a performance and training tool, and finding congruence between the living performance art practiced in Europe and the historical practice described in text. Marli is a dedicated and meticulous practitioner and teacher who finds great joy in sharing her knowledge and passion with students, whether it be in a group class or one-on-one setting. To further develop her teachings, she started attending the SSU Fencing Masters Certificate Program in 2023, achieved her Instructor certification in 2024, and is looking forward to continuing that journey. Currently residing in Winnipeg, she can be found on the floor at Valour HEMA Academy and Wolves Den Historical Fencing where she excitedly contributes to these vibrant communities.

  • Description :  Some traditions in southern Italy are distinguished by their use of an alternative thrust mechanic and refused guard in sword and dagger. Commonly nicknamed “the starfish thrust” today, this movement allows for particularly fast and powerful counterattacks. In this class we’ll learn and practise the four basic guards and the accompanying starfish thrust, as attacks, counterattacks, and defence.

    Equipment requirements: single-handed thrusting weapon (preferably a rapier), dagger, Fencing mask, jacket, glove, gorget

  • Description : The 18th century was a period of great political and cultural changes in Italy and this heavily influenced the fencing arts. While northerners adopted the smallsword synonymous with the French, the southerners remained patriotic to their rapier roots. We see the use of comparatively long yet narrow bladed weapons with cup or bell guards, and quillons, allowing for the speed and nimbleness of the smallsword without sacrificing the deadly grace and measure advantage of the rapier.

    This class will introduce the fencing system as described by General Rosaroll-Scorza and Captain Grisetti – a complete southern Italian martial experience of the late 18th century. We will study this late period and largely unexplored rapier system by working on a variety of basic offensive and defensive actions, and contraries.

    Required equipment : Fencing mask, jacket, gorget. A smarra or light rapier is preferred but a rapier, epee, or foil will work. A thin scarf or wrist strap is optional if you'd like to tie a lighter weapon to your hand.