WHAT WE DO
The West Michigan School of Arms teaches Historical European Martial Arts. HEMA involves the study and practice of historical fighting techniques left behind by dead, European masters. At the West Michigan School of Arms, we interpret, recreate, and teach the methods found in historical manuals of Italian and German masters of arms.
TRAINING TRADITIONS
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ARMIZARE TRADITION
An Italian weapons system of the aristocratic elite from the 14th century founded by Fiore dei Liberi.
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FREIFECHTER TRADITION
A German weapons system of the burgher class from the 16th century as cataloged by Joachim Meyer.
CLASS STRUCTURE
Class begins with 10 minutes of warm-ups. Then, it transitions into 10 minutes of fundamentals development through the use of solo drills to improve the mechanics of footwork and blade-work. Following this, the next 40 minutes is devoted to the objective of the lesson that teaches an aspect of the science of defense through the medium of partnered drills. Finally, the last half hour is devoted to coached or free sparring.
ABOUT US
The West Michigan School of Arms developed as a passion project between two of West Michigan's most experienced HEMA practitioners.
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Our school provides an inviting and inclusive atmosphere for everyone. Whether you're a sword or martial art enthusiast, someone interested in history, or a person eager to jump into a competitive tournament, WMSA appeals to every interest.
INSTRUCTORS
Instructor Brent Bloem is a Scholler of The Black Falcon School of Arms. He has been fencing since 2006 and has studied both England's Harleian longsword and Fiore Dei Liberi's Armizare. Before founding WMSA, Brent was an instructor at Waubonsie Historic Swordsmanship and Grand Valley State University HEMA.
Instructor Cameron Metcalf has been an active competitor in HEMA tournaments since 2017. He studies Joachim Meyer's German tradition of swordsmanship with a focus on longsword, dagger, and ringen. Before founding WMSA Cameron was an instructor at Grand Valley State University HEMA.
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GETTING INVOLVED
Interested? Feel free to participate or spectate. Your first fencing class is free of charge.
If you decide to train, bring comfortable gym clothes and shoes to move around in. As for training weapons and gear, the school has loaner equipment for newcomers, with the expectation that regular students will bring their own.
Tuition for regular students is $15 per month to be paid by the first practice week of each month.
ADDRESS
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Bauerwood Elementary
1443 Bauer Road
Jenison, MI 49428
EMAIL:
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CLASS HOURS:
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Wed: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm