Coaches
Chuck Farnsworth
Club owner and coach Chuck Farnsworth first learned to fence in 1991 as a student at the University at Buffalo. Over the next four years, Chuck served as fencing club officer and technician while competing as an athlete in both the United States and Canada. It was during this time that Chuck first began to coach other fencers and referee at local and regional competitions.
Since that time, Chuck has continued to enjoy all aspects of the sport of fencing as a competitor, referee, technician, and coach. As a referee, Chuck received
certification to officiate at national-level competitions in all weapons from Iana Dakova, then- Chairperson of the Fencing Officials' Commission. Chuck continues to referee at events throughout the region.
As a technician, Chuck was fortunate enough to have studied under USFA Hall of Fame and FIE SEMI Commission member Dan DeChaine, who granted Chuck certification as a Level 2 armorer. In this capacity, Chuck has worked at several events including national competitions.
Drawing on diverse experience and training, Chuck now serves as the coach of the Buffalo Fencing Academy. Certified by the USFA to coach epee, foil, and sabre, Chuck enjoys working with competitive and recreational fencers of all ages. A graduate of the Coaches' College program at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Chuck has learned from some of the best in the sport, including Alex Beguinet and Gary Copeland. As a participant in workshops and training programs around the country, Chuck is always looking for opportunities to grow as a teacher and coach.
Currently, Chuck also serves as the Chairperson of the Western New York Division of the USFA. By day, Chuck is a high school history teacher, holding a Master's Degree in Education.