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 graduated from Aquinas college in Management of Computer Information Systems and works full time as Information Security Specialist at Amway.
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
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