In their own words

For three decades, families, fencers, schools and companies have trusted Fencing Masters. Here is what they have to say about the coaching, the community, and the values that outlast any medal.

From parents

Mums and dads of our fencers
“

Ryan joined Fencing Masters when he was eight, and it was there that he started to enjoy and understand the sport. Coach Jeff made every lesson fun and interesting, and always took the time to explain Ryan's lessons to us. Everyone at FM has always shown genuine concern for his fencing and personal development. What a blessing it was for us to have found Fencing Masters.

Mr Roy & Pat Ong

Parents of Ryan Ong, Foil National Team member

Joined 2007

“

Fencing Masters coaches are professional, committed, caring and passionate about grooming young fencers. They are also refreshingly transparent about cost. Steady support and encouragement from Coach Jeff has helped Jian Tong become more confident and calm in every competition. We never regret sending him to FM.

Mrs Wilda Sito

Mother of Sito Jian Tong, SEA Games Épée Gold medallist

Joined 2011

The Tay family: Alex and Julie with their three sons, Michael, Gabriel and Ezekiel
“

Fencing Masters has a unique culture that makes it feel family-like. Beyond organised group and individual sessions, members are encouraged to spar across a wide spectrum of skill levels, so new and old fencers both benefit. FM does not just train the physical skills; the sparring hones the fencer's mind to engage with nimbleness and stamina. My children have all enjoyed their training here.

Mr Alex & Julie Tay

Parents of Michael, Gabriel and Ezekiel Tay

Joined 2010

“

Under Coach Jeff's guidance, Gabriel developed from a gawky kid with motor-skill challenges into a competitive, confident fencer who won gold at the 2011 Singapore Minime U12 Epee. Coach Jeff is not the kind of coach who only develops the physical side. He imparts life lessons and helps the boys grow into young gentlemen. He combines the best of technical competence and holistic values.

Mrs Celeste Broughton

Mother of Gabriel Broughton, St. Joseph's Institution Junior

Joined 2010

From our fencers

Athletes, then and now
Ryan Ong in Singapore colours at an international competition
“

Thank you Coach Jeff for all your interesting lessons and stories about fencing. It has made me the fencer I am today. When I am fencing in international competitions and facing a tough opponent, I still remember your teachings, and it helps me focus and know what I have to do to pull through and win.

Mr Ryan Ong

National Team member, Foil

Joined 2007

“

Fencing taught me that with sheer determination and a willingness to learn, one can excel in an individual sport. I became Novice Champion in Individual Epee in 2001. More than that, Mr Jeffrey Lopez shared his personal life experience and instilled great confidence in not only my fencing but my personal life. Fencing is not just for the rich and elite; it is for people from all walks of life.

Mr Danny Ong

Novice Champion, Individual Epee 2001

Joined 1999

“

My personal coach, Jeffrey Lopez, is methodical and professional. He suggested I try all three weapons and assess which best matched my natural abilities. The way FM runs goes beyond the commercial; the management connects with fencers and parents, and we have become a closely knitted community. I am glad to have joined a club that develops important life skills such as patience, perseverance and tenacity.

Mr Stephen Tan

Adult fencer, Épée

Joined 2011

“

A decade down the road, I can safely say that learning to fence at FM has changed my life for the better. Coach Jeffrey doesn't just train technique and tactics; he teaches us how to apply the same methodology in daily life. Fencing at FM taught me to cope with pressure, set realistic goals, and deal with setbacks, all while confidently handling a sword.

Mr Maurice Lee

Former Victoria Junior College fencer

Joined 2005

Coach Jeffrey Lopez and Gordon Ho in fencing kit, talking and laughing between bouts
“

Started fencing in 2008 and never once have I thought of changing club or training anywhere else, simply because it feels like home. Fencing Masters has given me the support to perform and to explore the sport beyond my competitive weapon, and the tools to deal with difficult situations both on and off the piste. Ten years here has given me friends I can call family. Come and see why we call this place home.

Gordon Ho

Fencer since 2008

Reviewed on Google, July 2018

“

Under Coach Jeff, we learnt that being a fencer is not just about medals and success but about discipline, honour and sportsmanship, a code I continue to live by today. As a relatively short epee fencer, I learnt to concentrate on out-thinking my opponent. FM is also where many friends from all walks of life have been made. That is the FM family.

Dr Jonathan Chan

Former VJC Fencing Team captain

Joined 2005

From companies

Corporate clinics and team building
“

Our participants relished the opportunity of trying out a sport that is very uncommon. Mr Jeffrey Lopez and his team of coaches were friendly, funny, enthusiastic and, most of all, patient with folks who had not even seen a fencing sword before. He created opportunities for team building and bonding that made the clinic livelier and fun. We would definitely recommend anyone who would like a challenging yet fun team bonding experience. Well done, Fencing Masters.

Mr Jonah Wong

Manager, Healthcare, Retail & Business Services Division, WDA

February 2012

From schools

CCA partners and educators
The Victoria Junior College fencing team of 2005 to 2006 with Coach Jeffrey Lopez
“

Mr Lopez has been a very dedicated coach to the VJC students under his charge. His devotion was rewarded with the Fencing Club's excellent achievements: the Boys Epee Team won Silver and Gold in the team event at the National Inter-Schools Championships in 2006 and 2007, with the Individual Boys Epee Gold in both years also won by a club member. He is approachable and held in high regard by his students.

Mrs Chan Yang Leng

Teacher-in-charge, Victoria Junior College Fencing Club

May 2007

Catholic Junior College fencers at Ablaze
“

Jeffrey has coached in CJC since 2002, and we see him as part of our family. What distinguishes him is that he teaches life skills and moral values, not just fencing, and he is a genuine role model for the students. He knows how to inject fun into his lessons, and students often comment on how much they enjoy training. CJC Fencing has come a long way: Overall Men's Champion in 2009 and Overall Women's Champion in 2010.

Ms Yang Yunhui

Teacher Coordinator, Catholic Junior College Fencing

2010

The SMU Fencing team with their medals and trophy at the HKUST Fencing Club
“

Thank you, Coach Jeffrey, for the tireless effort you have put in. In eleven years the team consistently achieved outstanding results, including three Gold, one Silver and one Bronze at the HKUST International Invitation Tournament, and top-three placings regionally. Your commitment went far beyond the studio hours, and your conduct off the field inspired the team to play in the true spirit of sportsmanship.

Mr Fred How

Manager, Office of Student Life, Singapore Management University

November 2015

Read more reviews

The written pieces above were sent to us over the years. For reviews you can check yourself, we hold 5.0 from 30 reviews on Google, and 100% of the 16 people who have reviewed us on Facebook recommend us.

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