About Us
OCHS was founded in 2022 by five friends who were passionate about the study and practice of Historical European Martial Arts. Since then, OCHS has grown into a thriving community of students who are dedicated to exploring and reviving these historic practices.
Our club is a friendly and open space where students are free to learn at their own pace and become a part of the international sport of HEMA. Lessons are as much a history lecture as a martial art class.
We invite you to join us and discover the world of HEMA. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced martial artist, we have something to offer at OCHS.
Instructors
Alex McFarlin
Alex is a founding member and current President of OCHS. He was born and raised in California and has been practicing HEMA since 2016. He has studied with both the Davenriche European Martial Art School and Schola Saint George. He currently teaches German Longsword and Italian Rapier.
Kai Johnson
Kai is our windward satellite instructor. He was born and raised in Hawai’i, and has been practicing HEMA since 2018. He achieved the rank of Fechter in 2025 and now teaches Italian and German Longsword, as well as Italian Poleaxe and Spear.