The first-ever course for fencing coaches in Guatemala took place in Guatemala City from January 25-30, 2016.

The programme was implemented by the National Sport Federation of Fencing of Guatemala, the Guatemala Olympic Committee, Olympic Solidarity and the FIE. The programme was led by FIE expert Marek P. Stepien, the fencing master from Poland/USA.

There were 28 participants, most of whom were fencing coaches with basic fencing skills and experience. Approximately half of the participants had increased knowledge of fencing experience and of teaching fencing. The main purpose of the course was to equip fencing coaches with the ability to teach and coach fencing and to ultimately enhance the sport of fencing in Guatemala.

During the first afternoon the participants discussed what it means to be a fencing coach and all the knowledge, responsibilities, and skills that are required. It was also discussed how to teach different levels of fencers as well as different ages of fencers, monitoring athletes’ training, and monitoring athletes’ preparation for competitions.