Meet the Coaches
Led by Olympian and fencing legend, Steve Kaplan, Cobra Fencing Club's team of expert coaches is committed to providing the best training and experience to our members. Our team has years of experience in the sport and is passionate about sharing their knowledge and skills with fencers of all levels. Join our team today and start your journey to becoming a top fencer.
Steve Kaplan
Founder & Head Coach
Steve Kaplan, has been involved in fencing for over four decades. He coached the fencing team at NYU (from 1980-86) and was elected to the NYU Athletic Hall of Fame.
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NCAA All American 1971
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Silver Medalist Pan Am Games 1975
Wilfred Loyola
Epee Coach
Wilfred Loyola, was a mainstay on the vaunted Cuban National Epee team during the 1980's. He has won several Cuban National championships as well as competed in World Cups & championships. He has earned the Fencing master Diploma from the Italian fencing Federation and founded the Scherma Loyola in Ceserta, in Italy in 2002
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1987 Bronze Medal Individual World Championships
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1987 Silver Medal Pan Am Games + Gold Medal Team
Ras Davidson
Sabre Coach
Ras Davidson, was coached by Mika'il Sankifa and Yury Gelman. His skill level is impressive and overall knowledge of sabre fencing makes him a great coach.
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Bronze Medalist Cadet World Championships
Dalton Walker
Sabre Coach
Dalton Walker, started fencing at the Cobra Club in 2010. He attended St. Peter's Prep, and was the NJSIAA State High School Sabre individual champion.
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2018 Silver Medal at USA Fencing National Championships
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NCAA All American 2019
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Head Sabre Coach Stevens Tech
Francesca Russo
Sabre Coach
Francesca Russo, represented Team USA at the Tokyo Summer Olympics, competing as part of the women's sabre team.
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NCAA Sabre Champion 2017, 2015
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NCAA Team Champion 2017, 2018
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Junior World Team Champion 2013
Mitro Valsamis
Foil Coach
Additionally to his fencing skill as a fencer and a coach, Mitros Valsamis, plays the guitar and performed with a number of punk bands during the 1990's in New York City.
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1980 NCCA Foil Champion
Andrew Prescott
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Our club is committed to creating an inclusive community where fencers of all levels are encouraged and challenged to reach their full potential. We offer a range of programs to meet the needs of every fencer, from beginner to advanced. Our experienced coaches will work with you to improve your technique, increase your agility and flexibility, and hone your mental focus. Join us today to experience the thrill of fencing.
Read the reviews.
"Cobra Fencers are well trained in fencing, but more critical Cobra Fencers are exhibit great sportsmanship. This is the sign of a great coaching staff and club."
"This is a prefect blend of friendly and competitive environment and we are so grateful to be a part of this. A bright, clean and a well maintained facility."
"Cobra coaching staff is made up of Olympians, national team members, and dedicated fencing masters. This is a great place to bring your children!"
"The coaches are incredibly accomplished, humble and caring, and our kids look up to them. Their dedication and passion inspires our kids."