For many kids, sports are a way to build skills, make friends, and discover what they are capable of. At Laguna Fencing Center, those lessons happen with a mask, a weapon, and a healthy dose of strategy.
Leading the way is founder and head coach Nick Dinu, whose passion has grown into a thriving community in Orange County. “My journey into fencing began when I was 10 years old in my native country of Romania,” Nick says. “At the time, I was playing traditional team sports like soccer and basketball, but everything changed when a friend invited me to a tryout at the local fencing club.”
That introduction inspired a lifelong love of fencing. Drawn to the sport’s speed, challenge, and emphasis on personal responsibility, Nick eventually turned a childhood interest into a career dedicated to helping young athletes grow.
Today, Laguna Fencing Center welcomes students of all ages and experience levels. While some arrive with competitive aspirations, others simply want to try something new.
No matter what their goals are, students are encouraged to learn, improve, and enjoy the journey. “At Laguna Fencing Center, our mission is to make the art and sport of fencing accessible, engaging, and rewarding for everyone,” he says.
What makes fencing especially appealing for children is the balance between physical movement and mental problem-solving. Success is not determined by size or strength alone. Instead, athletes learn to think quickly, anticipate opponents’ moves, and make smart decisions under pressure. For many children, developing these skills helps them feel more confident both in and out of the club.
The center has also worked hard to make fencing approachable for families who may have never considered it before. Alongside competitive training, the club hosts camps, special events, and activities designed to introduce newcomers to fencing in a welcoming setting.
Like many youth organizations, Laguna Fencing Center faced significant obstacles during the pandemic. Temporary closures challenged the club to find creative ways to stay connected with students.
Through virtual lessons, online training sessions, and later outdoor practices, the center maintained momentum while strengthening relationships with athletes and families.
“Surviving the pandemic closures was a major turning point for our business,” recalls Nick. “It solidified our resilience and showed us that Laguna Fencing Center is more than just a physical space, it is a tight-knit family.”
That sense of community remains central to the club’s identity, even as it continues to flourish. With an accomplished coaching staff that includes Olympic-level expertise, the organization has earned recognition on the national stage while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for beginners.
From Nick’s perspective, the greatest reward is seeing students develop qualities that will serve them throughout their lives. “The most rewarding part of my profession is watching my students transform into the best versions of themselves, both on and off the fencing strip,” he said.
Throughout the summer, Laguna Fencing Center has introduced many young athletes to fencing through its beginner camps, helping kids discover a sport that challenges both the mind and the body.
For many young athletes, stepping onto the strip is more than learning a new sport—it’s an opportunity to challenge themselves and gain confidence along the way.