Coaches
(Actual pictures coming soon! But maybe not too soon…. we kinda like these ones!)
Gherardo Mauri
Head Coach - Sabre/Foil
Coach Gherardo started fencing at renowned fencing club Frascati Scherma, at the outskirts of his native Rome, Italy, at the age of 7, and has fenced foil, and primarily sabre ever since, under the guidance of Olympic coaches both in Italy and in the US.
He continued fencing in college in the US, where he also started coaching new fencers while training and competing, and has been a fencing coach for over 20 years.
Coach Gherardo still competes at the National level, where he is currently ranked top-10 in the US in Veteran Men’s Sabre.
Madison Fournier
Coach - Sabre/Foil
Madison Fournier is a dedicated fencing coach at First Blades and Sabre Classes. Committed to continuous professional growth, she is actively pursuing a Moniteur apprenticeship through the US Fencing Coaches Association. With a passion for developing well-rounded fencers, Madison strives to inspire and empower her students to reach their full potential.
Ben Ide
Coach - Foil
Fencing veteran Ben Ide began fencing in 1993 and has experience across all three weapons. He joined the team in 2023 as a seasoned foil coach. His extensive background in fencing, coaching, and refereeing further enhances the club’s staff, ensuring high-quality instruction and mentorship for all members.
Ian Tucker
Coach - Sabre
Coach Ian started fencing sabre while attending college at Cornell University, where he was selected for the Mens Sabre Varsity Team, and was awarded his varsity letter in 1993. He has continued being involved with the sport ever since, including assisting coaching beginner fencers at Penn State during his residency in 1999-2001. Coach Ian continues to compete both regionally and nationally, and is a nationally rated fencer.