Fencing Master, or Maitre (Level 5), is the highest level of accreditation. Masters are capable of teaching fencers from beginners to high-level competitive champions. Masters can also train other coaches to become Prévôts or Masters. This certification requires a passing the Prévôt written test, a written thesis and a comprehensive practical and oral examination given by a certified board of three USFCA fencing masters. A coach can be certified as a Master in an individual weapon (e.g. Master of Foil, Master of Saber), or can be certified in all three weapons (Master of Arms or Maitre d’Armes). Each weapon is tested separately.
For a complete study guide, you must register and login as a member.
National Coaching Development Program Level 5 Pathway Checklist:
- Current USA Fencing Safe Sport and Background Check
- Read How to Master (Level 5): Log in to the website and click on Documents under the Members Only tab, open Exam Resources. There you will find the How to Master (Level 5).
- Develop a Thesis idea: Log in to the website, click Documents under the Members Only tab, open Additional Educational Resources, and download the USFCA thesis submission document. Contact the Chair of the Certification and Accreditation Board (CAB), Margaret de Long or the USFCA Education Manager, David Sierra to discuss your thesis ideas and gain initial approval before you submit an official proposal.
- Submit the Official Thesis Proposal. Under the Members Only tab, click on Courses and open the Master (Level 5) Thesis course to pay the thesis fee. Submit your official thesis proposal to the CAB through the Education Manager, David Sierra (not through the course). Once the CAB gives official approval to the proposal the chair of your thesis committee will be assigned and if you wish, a thesis advisor will be assigned to guide you.
- Write your thesis: Complete your thesis and submit it to the Chair of your Thesis Committee. A full committee will be appointed to review the thesis. In some cases, revisions may be required before the final thesis is approved and published on the USFCA website.
- Prepare for the practical exam. Download Study Aid for Practical Exams: Login to the website and click on Documents under the Members Only tab, open Exam Resources. There you will find the Study Aid for Practical Exams.
- Schedule the practical exam. Log in to the USFCA website and click on Tests under the Members Only tab, click on the Level 4 Maître Practical exam in the weapon of your choice. Pay the $170 fee. Then contact the Chair of the Certification and Accreditation Board, Margaret de Long, or the USFCA Education Manager, David Sierra to schedule your practical exam. Your exam will be scheduled at a date and location that is convenient to you and the examiners. Two of the three examiners required for a practical exam may be remote examiners.
To schedule your practical exam or for general questions:
David Sierra | sierra.sabre@gmail.com
Margaret de Long | salledelong@gmail.com
