Feb. 26: Fencing in Suwanee

After not fencing for nearly 20 years, Gary Di Maggio got back in to the game in 2003 and was ranked nationally. A year later Di Maggio began teaching at parks and recreational facilities in Gwinnett County, and helped North Gwinnett High School establish a fencing club.

Now Di Maggio operates his own fencing company, North Georgia Fencing Center in Suwanee, which is the only fencing center in Gwinnett County.

The center was formerly a gymnastic studio, which allows NGFC plenty of elbow room. Extra space comes in handy as NGFC plays host to 80 members ranging in age from 5-65 year olds.

Group classes begin with footwork and blade exercises and transition into open fencing sessions, where you pick your partner and challenge them to a match. Three types of weapons are taught at NGFC, foil, sabre and epee.

Private lessons are also available for those interested in competing. Local clubs compete at the facility against NGFC and many students are nationally ranked.

Even for the non-competitive fencer, the game of strategy helps with day-to-day life.

"Shy quiet, intelligent kids that aren't into team sports often are attracted to fencing," said Di Maggio. "It helps improve timing and math skills."