Meet The Coaches
Chris Buxton
Chris has been coaching since 2008 having been a Great Britain Fencer since 1996. Chris was a five time national champion and former British number one sabre fencer. He represented Great Britain at European & World Champioships.
As a coach, Chris initially worked at Truro Fencing Club where he helped develop the youth programme which included many fencers who went on to become the mainstays of the British senior sabre team. Chris moved to Stratford with his family in September 2019 to take over as Head Coach.
He is focussed on building on the foundations and continuing the culture of excellence at Shakespeare’s Swords.
David
Kirby
David Kirby sadly passed away in January 2021.
David was an inspiration to many generations of fencers. His enthusiasm and drive guided the club for over 30 years, he will always be remembered for his warmth and commitment to his athletes.
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David founded Shakepeare's Swords in 1988 at K.E.S., Stratford. He laid the foundations for a sabre club that would develop into one of the best in the U.K. producing many fencers who would go on to become international athletes.
His pastoral and logistical talents gave him a formidable skillset which enabled him to develop each individual's potential to their full.
Conor Bateman
Conor joined Shakespeare’s Swords in 2019 and has become a core member of the coaching team.
Conor’s enthusiasm combined with his dedication to his pupils create engaging sessions which combine enjoyment and improvement.
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Conor is also the Head Coach at Warwick University
Ben joined the Shakespeare's Swords Coaching staff in September 2023 after completing his A-Levels.
An experienced fencer, Ben's enthusiastic approach give fencers the best platform to develop.
Ben is also a strength & conditioning coach
Henry
Talbot
A stalwart of Shakespeare's Swords, Henry is a proud product of the Shakepspeare’s Swords fencing and coach education system, led by David Kirby.
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An U20 Commonwealth Games medalist with Wales, Henry’s no nonsense approach provides a strong foundation upon which Shakepseare’s young fencers can develop into mature young adults.
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