INTERNATIONAL
ÉPÉE FENCING CAMP 2026
Elite Training • Education • Performance • Leadership
JULY 31 – AUGUST 9, 2026
Hargrave Military Academy
200 Military Drive, Chatham, Virginia 24531, USA
Camp Concept & Philosophy
The International Épée Fencing Camp 2026 is a high-level residential training and education programme created for épée fencers and selected coaches who seek measurable progress in performance, understanding, and mindset.
The camp blends world-class fencing coaching, applied sport science, injury prevention, sport psychology, and leadership education within the disciplined and focused environment of Hargrave Military Academy.
This is not only a training camp — it is a complete performance-development experience.
Arrival, Departure & Duration
Arrival Day
Friday, 31 July 2026 – by 6:00 p.m.
- Arrival on campus
- Check-in and room assignments (on-campus dormitories)
- Camp organisation and orientation briefing
- Introduction to daily structure, rules, and expectations
Camp Duration
9 full days of intensive training and education
Training period: 1 August – 9 August 2026
Departure Day
Monday, 10 August 2026
- Breakfast on campus
- Packing and room check-out
- Departure by approximately 10:00 a.m.
Daily Camp Structure
(1–9 August 2026)
Each day follows a clear, repeatable, and professional structure, ensuring optimal balance between training load, learning, recovery, and long-term development. Adjustments may be made for progression and athlete needs, but the framework remains consistent.
Morning Block — Technique, Foundations & Safety
07:30 Breakfast | 09:00 – 12:30 Training & Education Session
Focus: technical excellence and intelligent preparation
- Fencing-specific warm-up and mobility
- Footwork, balance, coordination, and timing
- Épée blade work and technical precision
- Tactical foundations and distance control
- Decision-making and bout preparation
- Correct warm-up and stretching methodology
- Applied injury prevention principles
- Technical explanations and tactical analysis
- Official camp opening
- Introduction of all coaches and staff
- Presentation of camp philosophy and structure
- First Injury Prevention session focusing on safe training habits
Midday Block — Recovery & Reset
13:00 Lunch
Nutritional recovery, hydration, and rest.
Afternoon Block — Tactics, Strategy & Performance
14:30 – 17:30 Training Session
Focus: application and competitive readiness
- Bout fencing and tactical scenarios
- Offensive and defensive strategies
- Competition simulations
- Coach-led corrections and feedback
- Group and individual tactical adjustments
This session develops strategic thinking, adaptability, and confidence under pressure.
Evening Block — Education, Recovery & Individual Work
18:00 Dinner
Sport Psychology (4 lectures)
- Mental resilience
- Confidence and focus
- Stress and pressure management
- Competition routines and mindset
Injury Prevention (4 lectures)
- Load management
- Recovery strategies
- Long-term athlete health
Fencing Theory & Philosophy
- Tactical concepts
- Strategic planning
- Long-term development models
- Private 20-minute individual épée lessons (optional, additional fee)
- Swimming pool recovery sessions
- Guided regeneration and relaxation
Educational Value
The camp integrates theory and practice to ensure athletes and coaches understand not only how to fence, but why. Participants leave with improved technical skills, tactical awareness, mental tools, and habits that support long-term success.
Coaching & Leadership Team
Marek P. Stepien, OLY
Head Fencing Coach & Camp Director
Olympian from Barcelona 1992. Former Head Coach at the University of Cambridge and épée coach at the University of Notre Dame, he is now Head Fencing Coach at Hargrave Military Academy, leading the camp with experience, warmth, and a deep commitment to developing both athletes and students. International FIE Fencing Coach.
Octavian Zidaru, PhD
International Épée Head Coach
International FIE Fencing Coach. Led athletes at multiple Olympic Games and World Championships, including Vivian Kong – Olympic Gold, Paris 2024. Currently responsible for Romanian Olympic preparation – Los Angeles 2028.
Ewa Borowa-Kowalczyk
Maestro di Scherma • International Fencing Coach
International Fencing Coach. Italy-based Maestro di Scherma, elite coach and mentor shaping champions, including Italian national épée fencer Sara Kowalczyk. Inspiring generations through mastery, courage, and excellence.
Patryk Bieszke
Épée Fencing Coach
A dedicated fencing coach passionate about developing young athletes and top talent. With extensive coaching experience, he helps fencers build strong technical foundations, confidence, and character. He is Head Coach in the Chicago area.
Jane Littmann, PhD
Fencing Coach & Sport Psychology Lecturer
A clinical and teaching psychologist and former elite fencer, ranked #1 in Women’s Épée in North America and a two-time U.S. World Team member. A U.S. National medalist in all three weapons, she helped break barriers for Women’s Épée.
Morgan Merrill
Head of Athletic Training
Stephen Wuensche
Leadership & Camp Operations
Coach Development
A limited number of places are available for coaches and aspiring coaches wishing to deepen their understanding of épée fencing and elite coaching methodology through observation, education, and professional interaction with the staff.
Accommodation & Meals
All participants reside on campus at Hargrave Military Academy. The camp fee includes:
- Accommodation in academy dormitories
- Full board (meals)
- All training sessions
- Lectures and educational programme
Transportation (Optional)
Airport transport may be arranged by prior agreement and for an additional fee:
- Greensboro Piedmont Triad International Airport (NC)
- Raleigh–Durham International Airport (NC)
- Return transfers can also be arranged
Camp Fees & Availability
USD $1,650
(Valid until 31 May 2026)
After this date, the fee increases by 35%.
Limited availability — approximately 45 places.
Early registration is strongly encouraged.
Register Now
For registration, payment arrangements, and additional information, please contact us directly.
Marek P. Stepien, OLY
Head Fencing Coach & Camp Director
Hargrave Military Academy
200 Military Drive, Chatham, VA 24531, USA
marek.stepien@hargrave.edu
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+1 (708) 945-7766
