New York, NY — Coach Raphael “Fito” Western knows what it’s like to fence at the highest levels of competition.
Over his career of fencing for both the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, he has competed in more than 30 international competitions. He was Central American Junior Bi-Champion in 2008, Central American and Caribbean Champion in 2009, bronze medal winner in the Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz in 2014, the 2016 National Champion in Puerto Rico, and the gold medalist in the Iberoamerican Championship in Cancun in 2017.
Since 2013, Western has been sharing his considerable skills with fencing students, coaching at Horace Mann School and Tim Morehouse Fencing Club for a time. “I've been lucky to be able share both the skills I've developed and my love of the sport with the next generation of fencers,” he said.
Tim Morehouse Fencing Club is delighted to welcome Coach Fito back. Get to know him in his own words:
How/when did you start fencing?
I started fencing when I was 11 years old. I was babysitting a little girl and I I would bring her to her fencing lessons. One day, I joined in too with no expectations. I loved it from day one.
I was always a saber fencer, but I’ve had to fence all three weapons at national tournaments in the Dominican Republic — that was very fun.
How/when did you start coaching?
I started coaching after college in 2010. I became professional when I started coaching to the United States in 2013.
What is your philosophy when it comes to coaching?
I like working with people. I like to get to know my fencers — I’m a hands-on fencing coach. Also, I am open to trying anything.
How are you different from other fencing coaches?
I am a competition guy. I love to coach the kids to be competitors. I love to see kids at competitions and see them at their best.
Do you have any cool or offbeat hobbies?
I love the beach, being with friends and eating Italian food, especially fresh pasta.
To book a lesson with Coach Fito, please click HERE.