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Arkadiy Sarkisov

Arkadiy currently shares the title of head coach at Grand Rapids Fencing Academy. An internationally-successful fencer from the former Soviet Union, Maestro Arkadiy competed as a member of the Soviet National Fencing Team. In 1985, he graduated with a B.S. in Physical Education with a Minor in Physical Therapy from the Azerbaijan State Institute of Physical Culture and Sport Academy. At the young age of 17, Arkadiy earned his Master (Maestro) Degree in Fencing. In recognition of his impressive fencing results, the Soviet Minister of Sport provided him with a government stipend to work as a fencing instructor. From 1987 through 1989, Arkadiy worked as a physical therapist and massage therapist with the Soviet Union Olympic Rowing Team. In 1996, Arkadiy, with his wife and young daughter, immigrated to the United States. In 2004 they were granted American citizenship. In addition to his many hours spent coaching and operating the Grand Rapids Fencing Academy, Arkadiy is employed full time as a massage therapist at the Born Clinic.

EXPERIENCE

Grand Rapids Fencing Academy
    August 2002 – Present

  • Co-Founder and Co-Head Coach
  • Coaches both epee and foil

Born Clinic for Preventative Health
    2000 -- Present

  • Licensed massage therapist

West Michigan Fencing Academy
    2000 – June 2002

  • Conducted private lessons

Soviet Union Olympic Rowing Team
    1987-1989

  • Physical Therapist / Massage Therapist

EDUCATION

Azerbaijan State Institute of Physical Culture and Sport, Baku USSR
Bachelor of Science of Physical Education and Physical Therapy
Masters of Sport in Fencing
Bilingual in Russian/English

AWARDS/ RECOGNITIONS

Master\Maestro of Sport in Fencing, 1981
USSR Fencing National Team Champion, 1985
Member of USSR National Fencing Team
Medalist at USSR National Fencing Championships from 1986 to 1989
Silver Medal USSR High School National Fencing Championship
Champion (many times) or Medalist at Azerbaijan State Championship
Foil Coach, Baku, USSR 1983-1985 1987-1988