Desert Fencing Academy Moves To Larger Space

Following a successful move to a larger location, the Desert Fencing Academy will resume classes today in Palm Desert.

The academy was opened in 2003 by Leslie Taft, the fencing coach at for young people who did not have access to the COD program, according to Taft.

The DFA moved from the My Gym Children's Fitness Center in Palm Desert to 73760 Dinah Shore Drive, Suite D, east of Monterey Avenue, in Palm Desert.

Classes begin at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, she said, adding that the academy currently teaches 50 fencers ranging in age from 8 to 78, including some Junior Olympians and National champions.

Several students have gone on from the program to get collegiate scholarships, Taft said.

Anyone interested in trying out the sport of fencing is invited to come to the club, Taft said, adding that introductory lessons are 30 minutes and free of charge and all gear is provided.

Lesson packages are available and all lessons are one-on-one with the coach.

For more information on Desert Fencing Academy and its fencing program, visit www.desertfencingacademy.com, or call coach Leslie Taft at 760-218-1343.