In this episode I chat with Jay Maas, the owner of swordshop.ca, a founding member of Storica Defensa, and head instructor of Wolves Den Historical Fencing. Jay and I cover quite a few topics, from silly fencing debates online to more serious topics such as creating intentional balanced spaces for both competitive and recreational HEMA, and what it entails to run a HEMA gear shop that strives for inclusion.
About the guest:
Coach Jay has been a dedicated HEMA instructor since 2011, beginning his journey in 2010 at Valour HEMA where he studied rapier. A member of the Cateran Society, Jay has achieved the rank of Cateran and contributed to producing seven instructors through the program. As a founding member of Storica Defensa, a prominent coaching program and fencing league, he holds the prestigious Oak Rank Coach certification.
With a background in boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jay brings a diverse martial arts experience to his role. He is the head instructor at Wolves Den Historical Fencing and a five-time broadsword and smallsword champion at the Glengarry Highland Games, the Canadian Championship. Jay also organizes major events such as the Manitoba Highland Gathering and trains in Olympic-style fencing under Steve Symons at Phoenix Fencing Club.
A passionate advocate for the growth of HEMA across Canada, Jay has helped establish numerous clubs and remains actively involved in various HEMA weapons. In his professional life, Jay is a full-time Mental Health Therapist and Registered Social Worker, and his therapeutic skills profoundly influence his coaching approach.
Jay's dedication to both his martial arts practice and professional career reflects his commitment to empowering and nurturing the HEMA collective.