About Kings Historical Fencing

Kings Historical Fencing is a not-for-profit club in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley. We offer classes for youth and adults, and everyone is welcome, regardless of experience. Learn in a fun, safe and collaborative environment, with a focus on technique, fitness, safety and inclusivity. We provide appropriate safety gear and foam weapons for beginners, and your first class is always free! You can join us at any time, there's no need to wait for a new class cycle to start. Pay by cash weekly, or purchase a 6-class pass. You may attend classes in one or both locations as your availability allows. Check the schedule and locations at the bottom of this page for a class near you!

Our Instructors

Nathaniel Maxner

Nathaniel has been fencing since Fall 2021 and has been instructing since Fall 2022. Nathaniel is most proud of the experience we are able to provide to our youth students. In his own teenage years, there wasn’t a club for him to join, so he expressed his interests in martial history by LARPing and building a suit of armour from street signs. In addition to instructing at our club, Nathaniel is a member of Nile’s Fencing Academy. When he’s not fencing, Nathaniel enjoys reading about fencing, painting miniatures, and building Lego flowers and playing D&D with his girlfriend. He will go on a historical tangent in class if prompted.

David Morine

David Morine has been fencing since 2022, but he is a lifelong martial artist. He was formerly a capoeira instructor, a top five wrestler in Nova Scotia, and has studied taekwondo, karate, judo, and boxing. He has also taught breakdancing and pop locking, and has been an occasional substitute gym teacher. At his day job he teaches English and Art, and has been working with kids for over 20 years.

Reginald "Dane" Berringer

BA , MEd. club Co-Chair. Dane is a former instructor and instructor trainer in justice related martial skills for Holland College P.E.I. Police Science and Law and Security programs. He has a background in martial arts and he still dabbles with Tai Chi, Wing Chun and Escrima sticks. At 65 he saw HEMA as a good fit since he is an avid edged weapons collector and previously taught “Spontaneous Knife Defense“ courses to police and security officers. Dane is currently studying Destreza fencing from various texts focusing on Nobleza De La Espada by Francisco Rada. A firm believer in cooperation and helping HEMA prosper in Atlantic Canada, he is always open to helping any club in any way he can so that HEMA as a sport can grow in our region.

The Council

As a not-for-profit entity,  Kings Historical Fencing is run by a volunteer Council / Board consisting of the following members:

  • Troy Turple – Chair
  • Scott Gardiner – Acting Co-Chair
  • Nathaniel Maxner – Treasurer
  • Tyler Perrott – Secretary
  • David Morine – Director at Large
  • Scott Gardiner – Director at Large
  • Dane Berringer – Director at Large
  • Mykhailo Videiko – Armorer
  • Sue Earle – Website Administrator

What is HEMA?

Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) offers an exhilarating journey into the past, allowing practitioners to immerse themselves in the combat techniques and tactics used by medieval and Renaissance warriors. These martial arts, documented in manuscripts that survive today, offering a fascinating glimpse into how knights, duellists, and soldiers fought centuries ago. Works like those of Johannes Liechtenauer, Fiore dei Liberi, and Joachim Meyer provide detailed illustrations and instructions on swordplay, grappling, and combat strategies, along with rich commentary on chivalric conduct and martial philosophy. By studying these historical texts, modern practitioners can connect with a vibrant martial tradition that emphasizes skill, discipline, and respect. Engaging with HEMA is not merely about re-enacting historical battles; it is about embracing a dynamic and diverse martial practice that has been adapted for contemporary use. Modern HEMA practitioners draw on a variety of resources to reconstruct and interpret these ancient fighting systems, blending historical accuracy with safety and practicality. HEMA clubs around the world offer classes and tournaments where enthusiasts can learn techniques such as sword fighting, dagger, and wrestling. With a focus on developing both physical and mental acuity, HEMA provides a unique opportunity to improve coordination, agility, and strategic thinking, all while engaging in a community that values camaraderie and learning. For newcomers interested in exploring Historical European Martial Arts, HEMA offers an inclusive and welcoming environment.  The HEMA community is known for its passion and dedication, often sharing knowledge and resources freely to help others grow in their practice. Whether you are drawn by the historical allure, the physical challenge, or the chance to be part of a vibrant martial tradition, HEMA invites you to step into the shoes of the past and discover a world of excitement, fitness and adventure.