Trovare Di Spada

Thank you for visiting Trovare di Spada online.  For 20 years our instructors and fencers have worked to provide the Saint Louis community, and the Midwest at large,  the very best in traditional fencing instruction and training.  Unlike many organizations, TDS is a school of swordsmanship, not a club.  This difference means that complete understanding of the systems of defense is our principal objective.  Our training method is described as “perpetual and cooperative”; at TDS there is no segregation between genders nor ages; all students and fencers cooperate in the learning process and work with one another to achieve personal goals.  We follow a classical pedagogy of a traditional system.  This means that our process focuses on the practical combative techniques passed down to us through the lineage of swordsmen.  Rather than adopt unnecessary rules and distort techniques, we maintain the precise and efficient use of dueling weapons.  Therefore, training at TDS is a martial art and not a modern sport.

Prospective students are asked to observe at least two training sessions and then meet with the Director for admission.  Once registered, the new student begins training in the fundamental elements of fencing.  Upon successful completion of this  Preliminary Course, the student is allowed to test and become a full member.