Bert Gevaert – Fencing under the wings of Saint Michael
In this workshop we will introduce you to the world of Flemish armed guilds and teach you how tournaments were done in the ancient fencing guilds. We will not only explain the techniques and rules, but also hold a small guild tournament.
Gear
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About the instructor
Bert is an instructor and council member of the Hellebardiers, also known as the Order of Saint Michael, probably the oldest fencing guild in the world. He is author and translator of several works related to European Martial Arts and teaches longsword, sword and buckler, wrestling, dagger and polearms.
Melissa Kleiß & Jesse Gerdes – Think First, Then Strike | Fencing in Second Intention
In this workshop, we’ll explore how to move away from direct attacks with single-handed weapons by using the first action as a setup. The real hit comes second – through feints, redirections, or exploiting reactions. Focused on sabre but open to other weapons if you bring a partner. Fun meets tactics!
Gear
Full protective gear recommended. Fencing mask and gloves as minimum.
About the instructors
Melissa and Jesse have been active in historical fencing since 2021, building on a strong foundation of prior athletic experience. Since then, they’ve become regulars at national and international tournaments — both earning German championship titles and joining the national team. Their workshop brings together two valuable perspectives:
Jesse, a history student, contributes deep knowledge of the art’s historical context,
while Melissa, with a background in education, ensures clear, well-structured instruction.
A powerful combination for anyone who wants to train with both precision and understanding!
Gerrit Lettke – Fence smarter not harder
This workshop focuses on simple tactical concepts and smart decision-making in free sparring. While the emphasis is on longsword, other weapons are welcome too. You’ll get the most out of it with sparring-grade gear — but if not, we’ll just slow things down and adapt accordingly.
Gear
At minimum: longsword, mask, throat protector, and gloves.
About the instructor
Gerrit has been a coach at Grün Weiß Holten since 2008 and has been training the Women’s Longsword Squad of the DDHF since 2021. His fencing training mostly takes place in full gear, as he aims to transition exercises quickly into a free and practical format.
Chris Lee Becker – When the dagger enters the game, things get serious
This workshop introduces the fundamentals of rapier and sail dagger fencing, with a focus on attacks, defense, and body structure. Emphasis is placed on the dagger’s defensive role. Through drills and partner work, beginners develop coordination, timing, and balance—building a solid, engaging foundation for dual-weapon fencing
Gear
Rapier, Dagger (or short stick), fencing mask, chest protection
About the instructor
Chris is an instructor at Academia da Espada Germany. He began historical fencing in 2017 and has focused particularly on the Spanish fencing system La Verdadera Destreza since late 2019. In 2021, Chris also obtained the C-level trainer certification in historical fencing from the Bavarian Fencing Association.
Jan Gosewinkel – Keep the Flow | Montante According to the Lesser-Known Masters
This workshop focuses on the Spanish Montante as taught by two lesser-known masters from the 16th and 17th centuries: Paredes and Viedma. The main emphasis will be on maintaining flow while dynamically moving the sword.
Gear
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About the instructor
Jan started martial arts in the early 1990s with Jiu-Jitsu and gradually moved into HEMA from 2006 onward. Since around 2010, he has focused on the Iberian Montante and greatswords. He is especially drawn to lesser-known sources such as Paredes and Viedma.
Ralf Gutzeit – Secondary Cuts in Free Fencing or the Art of Deception
In this workshop, we will make use of secondary cuts rather than principal cuts and explore how they can be enhanced through effective deception. The workshop is aimed primarily at fencers of intermediate skill level.
Gear
Longsword or a training sword (Feder)
About the instructor
Ralf Gutzeit started historical fencing under Free Fencing Master Peter Koza and later founded Klopffechters Erben, his professional school for European martial arts. As a member of the Guildam Gladiatorum, he teaches Blossfechten according to Joachim Meyer and has been awarded the title of Master.
Dennis Marius Thieme – The shield | Fundamental and efficient
This workshop demonstrates techniques for using the early medieval round shield. In addition to the basics, it covers different ways of using the shield actively and passively. Finally, the new skills are tested in free play.
Gear
Mask, one-handed sword, gloves, shield (some loan shields will be provided)
About the instructor
Dennis began Olympic sabre fencing only to move into Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) at 22. Since 2022 he has served as the deputy chair of Schwertgreifen Rostock e.V., and it his year he became the DDHF Vice-President for Education and Research. His current focus is on research.
