We put ads in fencing-related publications and in our local papers. We talked to foreign fencers when they came to visit. We posted signs at regional and national competitions. Leads and names started coming in as a result of our ads and conversations. As we started to follow up, we realized our job had really only just begun.
Every club has a unique character.
A coach helps develop and shape that character, but also has to be able to fit in and adapt. Some were obvious, and some were more subtle. Since our members range from beginners to national competitors, we needed someone who was comfortable working with a variety of skill levels. And we needed someone who could give lessons in all three weapons. Even though we had a number of leads.