From the team
To our students and families, our mission is simply to help every player reach their full potential, on and off the strip. We’re building a program that challenges our fencers to compete with passion, train with purpose, and lead with integrity. Success will be measured not only by wins and college commitments, but by the growth, resilience, and character developed through the process.
At Masters Academy International, you’ll join a community that believes in doing things the right way with hard work, humility, and pride in representing something bigger than yourself. The journey starts here.
Meet the team
More to be announced soon
Ralf Bissdorf
Director of Fencing
Ralf believes that working as a coach is one of the most rewarding professions. With younger athletes, he values the opportunity to watch them grow and to play a meaningful role in their development.
Coaching across age groups
Middle School
(Grades 6-8)
Our fencers will likely arrive with a foundation in the sport, and middle school is where we will build on it.
Training focuses on sharpening technique, developing footwork and blade work, and deepening tactical awareness. We foster discipline, competitiveness, and a love for the sport while setting individual goals that keep each fencer progressing within the MAI pathway.
Upper School
(Grades 9-12)
There will be a bigger focus on tactical development, bout strategy, and competitive readiness. Training becomes more individualized as fencers refine their technique and prepare for higher-level competition.
We emphasize mental toughness, discipline, and the ability to adapt mid-bout — skills that translate well beyond the strip. Fencers will compete in regional and national tournaments, building the competitive résumé needed for college recruitment. Academic accountability and time management remain central as our athletes balance rigorous training with their studies.
College Prep / Elite Athletes
MAI fencers will be recruited not only based on their competitive performances, but on their identity beyond the strip — including their academic excellence, character, and leadership.
Our coaching staff, who are familiar with the recruitment process, will leverage their personal relationships with college coaches to help guide our athletes through every step.
The new home of USA Fencing
Through a landmark partnership with USA Fencing, MAI will serve as the nation's first dedicated National Training Center and National Academy for Fencing, providing MAI students the opportunity to work with world-class coaches and train with the best athletes from around the country.
Senior, Junior, Cadet, Paralympic, and Veteran national fencing teams will hold camps each season on the MAI campus. When the teams are not on site, MAI will open for regional clinics, referee seminars, and all-comers camps that any USA Fencing member can attend.
Start your journey
We’re building something special in New England, and we’d love to tell you more about it. To connect with our founding team at Masters Academy International, please fill out our inquiry form and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours.