For most, swordplay is a thing of childhood—playground duels with tree branches, plastic sabres accessorizing a Halloween costume.

But for some, play evolves, becomes technical and tactical, and transforms into sport. And on the Island, there’s no better example of this than the Martha’s Vineyard Fencing Club.

As clubs go, it is a small one—just three fencers came by the regional high school gym this Monday night; five practiced in the school’s hallways last week. But then, it only takes two—no more, no less—to have a bout.

And the size of the group means more individualized practices, no small thing when the club has such an impeccable pedigree. Instructor Ann Russell boasts two appearances on the U.S. Olympic Fencing Team—in 1972 and 1976, two back-to-back bronze medals from the 1975 and 1979 PanAm Games, and one 1976 national individual title. Mrs. Russell took over coaching duties from husband, Bob, the U.S. national champion in foil in 1965—13 years ago and continued working with the club after Bob passed away.

“It’s world-class coaching that we’re getting,” said eight-year veteran Fiona Finneran of Edgartown. “It’s very one-on-one attention; everyone gets a lesson.”

Fencing is like “physical chess,” says Richard Kelly. — Ivy Ashe

“It’s good for me because it’s such a specialized knowledge,” Mrs. Russell said during Monday’s practice. “It’s good to be able to share it.”

The sport of fencing dates to Egyptian times, but began to gain popularity in 14th century Europe, when dueling was still socially acceptable as a matter of settling affairs. Dueling had fallen out of practice by the early 20th century, but fencing continued to be practiced in sport context. Fencing has been an Olympic sport since the first modern-era games in 1896—just one of four events to hold this distinction.

Competition is based around use of three blades—foil, épée, and sabre. Each blade brings with it its own set of rules for competition; the Vineyard fencers primarily practice using the foil.

“There are a lot more rules to foil [than the other blades],” said Ms. Finneran. “When Ann’s not here, we épée . . . when the cat’s away, the mice will play.”

“The classic line is it’s physical chess,” said Richard Kelly, who joined in the club’s early years, after it was founded by Bob Russell, Michael Goldfein [the club’s current president] and Jamie Harris (and before the days of the high school gym, when the fencers would practice on the lawn of Lambert’s Cove Inn).

“It’s tactical and physical,” he continued. “Living on the Island, you need some kind of out.”

To the outside observer, fencing appears a back-and-forth dance, with the footwork being just as important as the hand-eye coordination required to wield a sword. Specialized uniforms—and blunted blades; pointed tips went the way of the duel — protect the body from injury. In competition, the blades are connected to an electronic wiring system that records when an opponent makes a touch.

“This has an immediate payback to it,” said Mrs. Russell. “There are very few excuses; you are responsible for the outcome.”

But, she adds, “People from all walks of life can do it. They [just] have to have that attention to focus.” The club has traditionally taken high school students under its wing for instruction; this year, Riley Donegan and Taylor McNeely represent the younger generation of fencers. Marjorie Lucas (MVRHS 2008) currently works with her college squad at Florida Institute of Technology.

Still, the club has always been for the recreational fencer — the complications of off-Island travel deterring participation in competitions — and those who are simply curious about the sport.

“There’s something to be learned every night,” said Ms. Finneran.

The Martha’s Vineyard Fencing Club meets Monday and Thursday nights in the regional high school gymnasium from 7 to 9 p.m. All are welcome; equipment is provided. Membership dues for adults are $15 per month. High schoolers practice free of charge.