Legendary fencing trainer Isengard Franke-a life for sport!

Legendary fencing trainer Isengard Franke-a life for sport!

The Turn Club Hameln looks back on a proud story: Founded in 1880 as a "gymnastics club of young merchants", the association in the region has developed into an important point of contact for sports enthusiasts. In particular, the fencing department, which was launched in 1925, has won numerous successes in the past decades.

under the direction of Arthur Baecher, the fencing department was founded, and after the Second World War, Johannes Kaßner took over responsibility until 1958. Isengard Franke took over in 1959 and gave a lasting impression in the fencing scene over the years. Her leadership stretched over remarkable 56 years, in which she not only shaped the club, but also celebrated many successes. In 1969 Christoph Hansen scored the first German championship title for TC Hameln.

a life for fencing

Isengard Franke, who died in November last year at the age of 96, was a real legend in German fencing. Their philosophy of calm and individual support has shaped many talents. In total, she produced seven German champions and was awarded the bronze medal at the Seniors' European Championships in 2001. Her protégés were very successful, especially in the Frisian fight, and she still enjoys a lot of view.

The TC Hameln is still a permanent address for fencing fans. Training units for all age groups take place twice a week under the direction of Axel Klages. In addition, the fencers can look forward to national successes, because they regularly achieve top places in Lower Saxony and also compete at German Championships. Another highlight in the club's history was the organization of the German team championships in 1980, which took place on the occasion of the 100th anniversary.

A look into the future

Next Saturday, June 24, 2025, the district championships will take place in Halle West, and admission is free. This offers a great opportunity to marvel at the talents of the TC Hameln and to include fencing in the region. With a variety of events and a strong focus on promoting young talent, the fencing department of the TC Hameln remains an important part of the local sports scene.

As in the past, the fencing department of the gymnastics club is carried by a committed community. Parents like Volker Friedrichs appreciate the work of the association and see a flowering fencing life in the area. After all, there is nothing better than seeing the joy and enthusiasm of young fencers in action!

Further information about the history of fencing and the importance of sport in Germany can be found on archive websites such as archiv.fechten.org .

The TC Hameln remains an integral part of the fencing scene in Lower Saxony, and Franke's work will be remembered for a long time. It remains exciting to see which talents will emerge from this traditional club in the future.

In any case, the fencing growth can look forward to an exciting Saturday when the district championships go on stage!