At LJFA we take tremendous pride in our outstanding coaching staff. LJFA’s have coaches competed in and coached fencing across the US and all around the world. LJFA’s coaches are determined to teach our students the wonderful sport of fencing at the highest possible level.

Dmitriy Guy: Founder and Head Coach

Dmitriy Guy

Dmitriy Guy stands out as one of the preeminent fencers and coaches in the United States. With a background as a former professional saber fencer for the USSR fencing team, Dmitriy holds the esteemed title of Soviet Union National Champion and has reached the finals at two Junior World Championships. His success extends to the United States, where he proudly holds the titles of US Open champion and a two-time Maccabiah Gold Medalist.

Beyond his personal accomplishments, Dmitriy's impact as a coach is profound. His students have achieved remarkable success, boasting titles such as World Champions, US Open Champions, and World Cup Medalists. Adding to his accolades, Dmitriy has served as the national coach of the US fencing team, bringing his expertise to bear in crucial international competitions at the cadet, junior, and senior levels.

Rostislav Krasilnikov: Lead Saber Coach

Rostislav Krasilnikov

Rostislav (Rost) Krasilnikov is among the most accomplished Cadet and Junior fencers, representing the Russian National Team. Throughout his Cadet years, Rost earned medals at numerous World Cups and Russian National Events. As a Junior, he secured esteemed titles, including European Championship Gold Medalist and World Championship Silver Medalist. Transitioning from his successful competitive career, Rost has evolved into a highly respected coach, leading the Russian National Cadet team on international ventures. Since relocating to the United States, Rost has become an integral part of the distinguished group of saber coaches at La Jolla Fencing Academy/Spartak.

Coach Rostislav holds a Master's Degree from the National State University of Physical Education in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.

Sergey Mindirgasov: Senior Saber Coach

Sergey Mindirgasov

La Jolla Fencing Academy is pleased to announce the legendary 6-time World Champion, 5-time European Champion and the Olympic Silver Medalist (1988-Seoul ) Sergey Mindirgasov is now a part of LJFA's stellar coaching team.
Coach Sergey brings over 45 years of fencing experience to the club. He trains competitive/elite athletes in classes, private lessons and tournament strip coaching.
Coach Sergey holds a Master's Degree from the National State University of Physical Education in Lviv, Ukraine.

Konstantin Lokhanov: Saber Coach

Konstantin Lokhanov

Konstantin (Kostya) Lokhanov has consistently stood out as a top-tier fencer on the global stage throughout his career. In the Cadet category, Kostya has secured multiple World medals. During his Junior years, he held the prestigious rank of number 1 in the world from 2016 to 2018, as recognized by The International Fencing Federation (FIE). His notable achievements include winning four Junior World Championships and earning a bronze medal at the European Championships. As a senior, he achieved a commendable 7th place individually at the 2019 World Championship.

In 2021, Kostya realized his Olympic dream, representing his country at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Now, as an enthusiastic young coach, Kostya brings his extensive knowledge of modern fencing and a unique career perspective, ready to share his insights with our LJFA/Spartak students.

Pavel Nikitin: Saber Coach

Pavel Nikitin

Pavel (Pasha) Nikitin, a highly experienced professional athlete in fencing, has achieved recognition since his cadet years, earning accolades from European and Russian national championships. As a former member of the Russian national team, Pasha clinched a gold medal at Coupe du Monde in Poland. Prior to joining La Jolla Fencing Academy, he excelled not only as a referee in various international tournaments but also as an instructor of saber fencing.

Currently serving as a coach for LJFA/Spartak club, Coach Pasha imparts his extensive knowledge to diverse age groups through group sessions and private lessons. His coaching philosophy aims to inspire young fencers to scale new heights in their endeavors. Pasha holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the esteemed Olympic Reserve College in Saint Petersburg, Russia, solidifying his educational background in the field.