ABOUT
Our Philosophy
At the Sword School, we hold a foundational belief that the art of fencing should not be confined to a privileged few but made accessible to all, regardless of background or skill level. Our mission is to cultivate an environment that goes beyond mere instruction; we aim to build a vibrant, diverse community where each member feels genuinely welcomed and respected. With an emphasis on not just technical mastery but also personal growth, we offer a multi-faceted approach to engagement, allowing our students to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the discipline. By nurturing this inclusive atmosphere, we create a sanctuary where passion for fencing and a sense of community coalesce, enriching the lives of all who cross our threshold.
DEMAS
The Sword School, Midland is a chapter of Davenriche European Martial Arts School. DEMAS, for short, was founded in 2000 by Steaphen Fick. Steaphen has over 25 years of experience in Western Martial Arts and developed DEMAS’ weapon systems based on the treatises of Medieval and Renaissance sword masters. He continues to study and instruct all over the world as well as run his main school in Santa Clara, Ca.
INSTRUCTORS
Skye Hilton began studying under Steaphen Fick in Santa Clara, Ca., focusing on various medieval and Renaissance martial arts and weapons. In this time she also traveled to other sword schools throughout California and neighboring states to study and compete. In 2017 she became certified as a long sword instructor through HEMAA and continued to study and compete internationally. After moving to Midland, Texas the beginning of 2018, she and Jake founded The Sword School, the only HEMA club in West Texas. She went on to compete in History Channel’s Forged in Fire Knife or Death Show in August of 2018 and then return for Bladesgiving Special in November of the same year. She continues to travel and study with other HEMA practitioners as often as possible to continue to grow her own skill and knowledge base for herself and her students.
Jake Ulmer started HEMA in a backyard with his best friend Michael Graves. Going through many books and Youtube videos, the two of them taught themselves the foundations of sword work. After a few years of solo study and travel to other sword schools in the state, the pair stepped onto the larger stage at Combat Con in Las Vegas. This is where Jake received his first taste of the HEMA community. He found himself surrounded by those who shared his passion for the sword and so willing to teach him, and eventually meeting Skye Hilton in his pursuit of knowledge. After being adopted by DEMAS, Jake was able to hone his skills and, to this day, he is working become a better fighter and instructor. The HEMA world means a great deal to him and he hopes to share that same love for the art to anyone who wishes to wield a blade.
Matthew Carroll started his journey into HEMA in 2014. Being a long time Civil War reenactor, he was brought into close proximity with like minded historical enthusiasts. A frequently asked question was the use of melee weapons during the 19th century. Curious, he began a self-study which rapidly evolved into an in depth study of the use of Military sabre in armed conflicts. Starting off with nothing more than a replica sabre and Youtube, he developed an understanding of Roworth and Hutton, then began to progress further back in history to the eastern origins of the sabre. Testing the waters, he developed a passion for the Polish method and began to seek out like minded individuals. Stumbling upon the Sword School, by sheer luck, Matthew has devoted his time to the school and the development of a proper program for sabre enthusiasts. Never formally trained, he has now found himself surrounded by friends who equally share the passion for Historical European Martial Arts. As the school continues to grow, Matthew has high hopes for the future of both the Sword School and the HEMA community.
Sword Class Location
The Sword School
600 N. Marienfeld, B-100
Midland, TX 79701
Hours
5:30 pm – 9 pm Monday - Thursday
