Unlimited possibilities with SKIES

BY DORI NIX

FAMILY & MWR MARKETING

The sky is the limit with Child & Youth Services’ (CYS) ever-popular SKIESUnlimited program. Incorporating Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration, and Skills, the SKIESUnlimited program creates unlimited possibilities for Army youth.

While classes range from gymnastics and musical arts to dance and swimming, the program also offers an assortment of unique classes such as fencing.

Fencing is the recreational sport of swordplay enjoyed by people of all ages. Serving as both a physical and mental workout, fencers often learn to hone their strategies against opponents and build up physical endurance, agility and accuracy. At first, the art of fencing can seem complex, but CYS SKIESUnlimited sets students up for success in their fencing endeavors.

The SKIESUnlimited fencing program started in January of 2013 and has blossomed into a highly desired program among youth that fills up quickly. Encompassing a tradition of perseverance, the fencing program offers a unique exposure to the Olympic sport at a higher level. Several SKIES fencing students have competed at local, regional, and national levels. Some SKIES fencers have continued with the sport at the college level and even received a fencing scholarship for their higher education.

No need to fear intimidation when starting the fencing class. Regardless of age, the fencing program is designed for beginning fencers without prior knowledge of the sport.

This one-hour class, scheduled Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., consists of a warm-up activity, coordination footwork drills, and specific fencing drills.

“The wonderful coaches work with the fencing students in a fun learning environment, give them a lot of background information and teach them the necessary skills,” says Joy Clickener, SKIESUnlimited director. Each class concludes with strategic match situations with peers. Students learn about all of the equipment used in the sport and get firsthand experience using a weapon (fencing foil), a fencing mask, gloves and jacket. Ready to jump on board but not ready to invest in all the equipment? SKIESUnlimited offers equipment rentals for all ages needed for the class. This program is open to ages 6 and older, and costs $60 per month. Additional costs may accrue with equipment rentals. Fencing classes run on a monthly basis, and students must pay and re-register for each month they wish to participate. Registration for SKIESUnlimited classes starts on the 20th of the month prior to class. Registration ends on the 7th of the month the student plans to attend. Refunds are not available after the 7th of the month. All students must be registered with CYS Parent Central before enrolling in the SKIES fencing program. To register for CYS, call 915-568-4374. Parents! Are you interested in learning to fence too? Fencing is the perfect sport for all ages whether you’re in it for fun, fitness or even to train to compete! Join your kids in this unique learning opportunity at the same rate of $60 per month. Take the first step in registering for SKIESUnlimited Fencing classes by calling 915-568-5544, or visit bliss. armymwr.com. En garde! Ready? Fence!