Our Coaching Team
The coaches at Las Vegas Fencing Academy are all unified in terms of their styles of teaching and vision for member advancement.
Coach Luis Patino
All the way from Cuba, Luis Patino Matamoros is a renowned fencer in sabre in his home country. He was part of the Cuban sabre national team He is passionate about passing on his tactics and skills to all of his students. He had participated in many national and international fencing tournaments, and had earned his “A” ranking in sabre.
Luis is energetic and enthusiastic, and is the perfect addition to LVFA. He is head coach of the sabre program at LVFA. His international fencing experiences will be an asset to his sabre classes.
Favorite Food: Beefsteak
Coach James Bui
A current tri-weapon coach and DIV 1 Epee fencer, coach James will be your go-to guy for any questions you might have. In the past ten years he’s trained in 6 different countries with all levels of fencers in all age groups. Constantly adapting and staying up to date with the modern sport, he is a dependable resource to supplement your fencing journey. His students hold medals at every level of competition including local, regional, and national.
James's coaching approach is tailored to suit each individual's unique strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. Through personalized drills, tactical exercises, and one-on-one instruction, James works closely with fencers to develop their technique, footwork, timing, and strategy, helping them become formidable opponents on the piste.
His effective communication and innovative approach to training and fencer development has baffled many opponents (and students), and produced remarkable results. Empathy and compassion are the hallmarks of his coaching style, emphasizing the growth of the fencer both on and off the strip. He currently leads the competitive program at LVFA and is available for private lessons.
Favorite Food: Costco $1.50 Hot Dog Combo
Coach Aliya Zaydullina
Coach Aliya has worked as a fencing coach since she finished her competitive career. Aliya is a Master of Sport in Epee, the Former Member of the Uzbekistan National Epee Team, studied at Olympic Reserve School in Tashkent, and possesses a Master's degree with specialization as a fencing coach from the National University of Uzbekistan. She is a multiple champion and medalist of the National Championships in Uzbekistan, the Medalist of Asia Championships, and other international competitions. She works especially well with youth and brings a cheerful and engaging atmosphere to all she mentors.
Favorite Food: Everything! Especially Traditional Uzbek Foods
Coach Carlos Ayala
Carlos is a tri-weapon coach with an emphasis in Saber. As a Cadet and Junior, he was a national medalist in Mexico, and qualified for the Pan American games.
Coach Carlos travels internationally to coach and train, ever improving his skills to share with his students. Outside of coaching, Carlos is deeply passionate about promoting the sport of saber fencing and fostering a vibrant and inclusive fencing community. From contributing as a referee at all levels of competition, to competitions to stay current, Carlos is dedicated to sharing his love for the sport and inspiring the next generation of fencers to reach for their dreams. Carlos is available for private lessons.
Favorite Food: Tacos
Coach Lester Gonzales
All the way from Cuba, Lester is also a renowned fencer in sabre in his home country. He was recruited by Coach Luis Patino, and is now an integral part of the sabre team at LVFA, As a national sabre fencer back in Cuba, Lester had earned numerous national and international fencing titles.
Lester has an enthusiastic but gentle approach to teaching his students, and thus making it super fun and supportive for new fencers to learn this Olympic sport.
Favorite Food: Beefsteak
Coach Tristan Kampsen
Tristan teaches Foil and Epee bring with him almost 20 years of experience. As a DIV 1 fencer he brings a comprehensive and dynamic energy to his classes. A special emphasis on strength and conditioning has produced strong athletic results. Beyond mastering the physical aspects of fencing, Tristan emphasizes the importance of mental toughness, sportsmanship, and goal setting. Whether fencers are competing at the local level or aiming for national championships, Tristan provides support, encouragement, and valuable insights to help them succeed. He is available for private lessons and personal training.
Favorite Food: Sushi
Assistant Coaches
Natasha Lee and Abigail Operario are assistant coaches who specialize in coaching children. They both possess the fun and patient personalities that are vital to teaching and engaging kids. They both are nationally ranked and regularly compete in regional and national fencing competitions.