David Shorey
General Manager/ Head Epee Coach
David started fencing at the age of 12, inspired by a fencing competition in an old science fiction novel. He began his training in foil but switched to epee three years later. Within a year of switching weapons, he won his first national medal, winning gold in the cadet men’s epee division. Since then, he has represented Canada at Junior World Cups in Italy and Sweden, as well as the World University Games in Russia, and the Vancouver Men’s Epee Grand Prix.
David has a Bachelor of Science in physics and math and is currently working as a teacher within Surrey School District.
In 2009, David began coaching under the guidance of the national team coach, running classes and summer camps. David has been certified as a fencing coach (Prévôt d’épée) by the United States Fencing Coach’s Association (USFCA) and has helped guide students to medals at the provincial and national level.
Iavor Ivanov
Epee Coach / Technology Manager
Iavor began his fencing career in TFA’s first Middle School programs during 2007. He developed an immediate passion for the sport and initially trained in all three weapons, finally deciding upon, and excelling at epee. He has competed locally, regionally, nationally and in the US for TFA in both individual and team events.
Iavor’s has a Bachelors of Applied Science in Computing
Iavor is greatly valued as a member of TFA’s staff and as a senior fencer, who is always eager and willing to work with and learn from the Academy’s coaching staff.
Brad Kelly
Founder / Director / Instructor
Brad started fencing in 1985 at Simon Fraser University and quickly gained a love for the elegance, complexity and enduring nature of the sport. Throughout finishing his honours degree in Engineering and then working for and founding companies in the high-tech industry, for the next two decades Brad competed for, taught adults and children at, and managed many different fencing clubs in BC.
In 2007 Brad founded Tri-City Fencing Academy, and continues to contribute as a director, member of the management team and program instructor. Brad pursues his passion for competitive fencing, winning medals at a national level and representing Canada internationally as a member of the Canadian Veterans National Team.
Brad also manages TFA’s non-profit society, Tri-City Fencing Foundation, which drives community engagement to provide sponsored programs for para-fencing and other sport initiatives.