Coaches
Simon Pitfeild - Fencing Matser / Owner:
Simon started fencing in 1995 at UC Davis. In 1998 he was the cofounder of the City of Davis fencing program and opened the Davis Fencing Academy in 1999. In 2000 he received he Maitre d’Armes degree from the French Academy of Arms in Paris. Simon is presently the owner and head coach of DFA.
David Marias
Coach David is a student at UC Davis and the current Vice President and former chief armourer of their fencing team. He has been fencing sabre competitively for several years.
Chris Casari - Coach
Chris started fencing with Dave Leveque in 2009. He competes in foil, though is willing to fence any weapon for fun. Chris enjoys both the competitive and the social aspects of the sport. He coaches intermediate classes on mondays and wednesdays.
Dick Berry - Coach
Dick has fenced for over 62 years (starting at the age of 16) and is a five-time National Champion. He co-founded the City of Davis fencing program and presently coaches the after-school program at NFC in Davis, focusing on beginning children and adults.
Dave Leveque - Coach
Dave started fencing in 2000 while DFA was still at its first location. He competes in all three weapons (though he prefers saber) and has fenced at both local and national tournaments. He helps to run the Woodland Mauraders fencing in Woodland, CA more info can be found here.
Kevin Murakoshi - Provost at Arms
Kevin recently graduated with his Provost at Arms degree from the San Jose State Fencing Masters Program. His interests span the entire history of swordplay, from the rapier to the modern three weapons. Currently he co-coaches the Historical Fencing program, and offers private lessons throughout the week.
Jonny Tai -Assistant Office Manager
Jonny assits Kevin in managing the office, and fences in the intermediate class.
Andrew Lee - Webmatser / Assistant Office Manager
Andrew runs the DFA website (yes this one right here) and can typically be seen in the office and intermediate classes; he fences foil.
Bella Peceli - Assistant Coach
Bella is a nationally ranked fencer who has been fencing for two years. She coaches the beginners foil class on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and occasionally instructs the advanced epee class.