New York, NY (Nov. 2021) — Coach Melvin Rodriguez believes that developing a relationship based on mutual trust and respect is the key to success. He works closely with his students and their parents to achieve their goals.
Melvin has been active in the fencing community for 17 years. A native of the Bronx, NY, he started fencing under the tutelage of US Fencing Hall of Famer Martin Schneider and later continued with legendary coach Aladar Kogler.
Melvin was captain of the Columbia University NCAA fencing program, where he won an Ivy League Championship title and team MVP award. See Chach Melvin’s excellent footwork in college HERE.
He also fenced internationally for Puerto Rico, earning a top 50 world ranking in the FIE.
Get to know Coach Melvin in his own words:
How/when did you start fencing?
I started at age 12 when I joined the team at Riverdale Country School. I was initially assigned to foil. After watching demonstrations of the three weapons and knowing that Tim (also a Riverdale alum) had just come back from the 2004 Olympics, I decided to switch to saber.
Is there something you learned from a coach or fellow fencer early on that has stuck with you?
My first coach, Martin Schneider, instilled a love of the sport, the details. He created an environment with great camaraderie that allowed many of us to thrive. I strive to do the same with my programs, encouraging the fencers to push themselves as far as they are able.
How/when did you start coaching?
My first coaching experience was in high school when I started working at Riverdale's summer camp teaching fencing.
For you how are they related/separate?
This introduction to teaching fencing made me a lot more aware of my own movements. It led me to pursue coaching further at the high school and then at the club level.
What is your philosophy when it comes to coaching beginners?
Footwork, footwork, footwork. If they can get the fundamental movements down then everything else will fall into place.
When coaching more experienced fencers?
The more experienced fencers need a lot of mental preparation in addition to constantly refining the technical aspects of the sport.
How are you different from other fencing coaches?
I try not to compare myself to other coaches so this is a difficult question to answer. I like to think the relationships I develop with my students and their fencing speak for themselves.
What do you think is your expertise within weapons?
Point control and precision are critical, even with a cutting weapon like a saber.
And do you have any cool, offbeat or fun hobbies?
When I'm not coaching I'm often immersed in a video game or comic book. I can also be found cycling in Central Park, weather permitting.
To schedule a trial lesson with Coach Melvin or any of our other coaches, please click here.
Tim Morehouse Fencing Club is the premier fencing club in the area, offering fencing lessons in Manhattan, Westchester (Port Chester), and Connecticut (Stamford). With instruction available in saber, foil, and epee fencing, TMFC has programs for all levels of experience and competition.