Fechtschule Victoria
** Long Sword, Sabre, and Smallsword classes, now in Footscray and Kew**
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CHECK OUT OUR 2022 RETURN TO CLASSES SCHEDULE
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Fechtschule Victoria (FSV) is a Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) school teaching Germanic styles of longsword and smallsword. We teach classes in Canterbury and Footscray, including Melbourne’s only female run women’s longsword class.
FSV first started in 2013, originally supported by Melbourne Swordplay Guild (MSG) and has grown into one of the largest HEMA schools in Melbourne.
Our longsword classes focus on the teachings of Johannes Liechtenauer, in particular from the Pseudo Von Danzig, Jud Lew, Sigmund Ringeck and Nuremburg Hausbuch manuals.
Our smallsword classes focus on the approach of the Kreussler tradition, specifically from the manual of F.A.W.L Roux.
We teach closely to the texts, drawing the basis for our classes from the words of the Masters. However, we use plain language explanations and kinaesthetic demonstration to make this easily understandable to newcomers to HEMA.
Students are introduced to new concepts and techniques through structured interactive drills, designed to work at the student's own pace.
Once students have grasped the techniques in drills, they are encouraged to implement them in controlled freeplay environments. This helps to bridge the gap between drilling and sparring.
When they are comfortable doing so, students are able to participate in sparring with other students of similar experience; allowing them the opportunity to try their skills in the pressure of mock-combat.
We are the primary organisers of Melbourne’s Festival of the Sword, and bring out international guests to provide fresh perspectives on the material regularly.
Beginner instruction is provided all year round, with new starters being paired with instructors or experienced students to provide them with one-on-one coaching. Beginner equipment is provided by the club and up to the first month of classes is free to come and try.
See you there!