It has been described as a physical game of chess and proudly "the sport of geeks" but fencing has experienced a resurgence in the past few years in the northern suburbs of Wollongong.
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Those who give the sport a go usually fall in love with the mental and physical challenges of the game.
The Bulli Swords, as the region's only club is called, has just been named the Regional Fencing Club of the Year by the NSW Fencing Association.
The club was singled out because of its commitment in reaching the broader community with an active program of training nights, beginners' classes and demonstrations.
The club has grown in the past few years from just a few members to 20 active participants.
Assistant coach Laura Goodin, 53, who began fencing six years ago, said people take up the sport to improve their physical and mental ability.
"It improves agility, balance and core strength," she said. "As well as the mental aspects of developing tactics and strategies to build a game plan."
The club currently operates out of the Uniting Church Hall in Corrimal.
What once was an expensive sport has become more affordable in the past decade. To encourage even more people to take it up, Bulli Swords loans equipment to beginners.
Ms Goodin said the emphasis of the club was one of honour, respect and a cheerful attitude.
"Our club welcomes people of all backgrounds and abilities," she said. "We have people here who are pushing 80 as well as some students with learning issues."
Trevor Slattery, 31, said fencing was a great way for students to unwind.
"I first gave it a go when I was taking a break from basketball," he said. "I wish I'd taken it up sooner. They say it's the sport of geeks. It's like human chess. There's a lot of strategy that goes into a bout. You have to read your opponent and move them in a way that you want them to move."
He also added that it was one of the safest sports - despite the weapons used.
For Cody Arts, 21, it was the spirit of adventure in the tradition of Robin Hood and the Three Musketeers that drew him to fencing.
"I really enjoy those old school stories," said Cody who took up the sport when he was 16.
His friend Amanda van Keulen, 22, joined him in January. "It's a good athletic sport," she said.
A four-week beginners class will run through Bulli Swords and WEA Illawarra in February.
