Coach Mikhail Sarkisov

Mikhail Sarkisov, co-founder and co-head coach of Grand Rapids Fencing Academy, was chosen as “2004 Developmental Coach of the Year” by the United States Fencing Association. An internationally-successful fencer from the former Soviet Union, Maestro Mikhail was a member of the Soviet National Fencing Team. In 1984, he graduated with a B.S. in Physical Education and a Major in Teacher of Physical Education and Coaching from the Azerbaijan State Institute of Physical Culture and Sport Academy. In 1980, Mikhail earned his Master (Maestro) Degree in Fencing. He has been coaching fencing students and instructors alike in West Michigan since 1993. Mikhail also works full time as a computer engineer for Alticor.

EXPERIENCE

Grand Rapids Fencing Academy
August 2002 – Present
Co-Founder and Co-Head Coach

West Michigan Fencing Academy
1993 – June 2002
Head Coach:
   Conducted fencing classes for adults and youth
   Conducted private lessons at all levels
   Conducted coaching seminars/clinics
   Advised the board on development of a fencing program

Foil coach: Lvov Military District, Lvov, Ukraine
1988-1990 Junior team

Military Service 1984-1986
1984-1986

Youth Foil Coach: Baku, USSR
1986-1988

University of Russian Language and Literature: Baku, USSR
1979-1981 Assistant coach for fencing team at University of Russian Language and Literature

EDUCATION

1980– 1984
B.S. of Physical Education and Coaching, Azerbaijan State Institute of Physical Culture and Sport Academy, Baku, USSR

Masters of Sport in Fencing

B.S. Computer Information Systems Aquinas College

AWARDS/ RECOGNITIONS

Named “Developmental Coach of the Year” by the United States Fencing Association for the year 2004

Assistant coach for fencing team at University of Russian Language and Literature, Baku, USSR

Medalist at Ukraine Championship and member of Ukrainian National Team 1988-1989

Medalist at USSR National Fencing Championships from 1986 to 1988

USSR National Fencing Champion 1985

Master\Maestro of Sport in Fencing 1980

Champion (many times) / Medalist at Azerbaijan State Championship

Member of USSR National Fencing Team

Silver Medal USSR High School National Fencing Championship

University Games

Bilingual in Russian/English

World Cup Participant