Bfc Student Handbook

Student Handbook Updated September 2006 The current version of this Student Handbook is available in its entirety on the Club website at www.fencingclub.org.

Table of Contents Welcome!

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Contact Information

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Birmingham Fencing Club Philosophy

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Coaching Staff

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What is a Typical Class Like?

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Safety Rules

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The Weapons

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Competition Rules

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Code of Conduct

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United States Fencing Association

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Fencing Programs & Fees

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Club Membership and USFA Membership Requirement

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BFC National Team

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Equipment Purchases

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Competition in Tournaments

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P o licy fo r P aym ent o f C o ach’s T ravel E xp enses to T o urnam ents

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Projected Costs for Attendance at Tournaments

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General Guide for Parents Attending Tournaments and What to Expect at a NAC or National Championship Tournament

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Qualifying Paths for Junior Olympics & Summer Nationals

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Team Jackets & Patches

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Fencing Summer Camps

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Referee Training

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Parental Involvement

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Annual Pictures

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Glossary of Fencing Terms

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Our thanks to the United States Fencing Association for assistance in preparing this handbook

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Welcome! Welcome to the sport of fencing! It is an exciting sport that blends physical fitness and mental challenge. Fencing also incorporates timing, speed, endurance and tactics. This handbook is designed to assist you in the beginning stages of learning the sport. Hopefully, this information will answer many of your questions. The handbook will also explain some of what to expect from the classes, and what we expect from you. This handbook also contains information that will be useful to you as you move into the more advanced classes and become a serious competitive fencer. From the time you start taking classes, you will become a member of the Birmingham Fencing Club. As your skills progress, we invite you to join Club Open Fencing practices as well. The Club offers you many opportunities, including practice with students from other classes and the opportunity to compete with more experienced fencers. We are happy that you have chosen to experience the sport of fencing, and we hope that you enjoy it as much as we do!

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Contact Information Birmingham Fencing Club 1425 Montgomery Highway Suite 25 Birmingham, Alabama 35216 Phone (205) 824-6635 for all information related to classes and fees Fax (205) 824-6682 Club phone (205) 823-4448 for urgent matters during class time Email [email protected] The Birmingham Fencing Club is operated as an Alabama nonprofit corporation. Student and parent volunteers provide leadership in a number of important functions. Most of the communication within the Birmingham Fencing Club is conducted by email. Newsletters will also be available at the Club, generally on a monthly basis. We have found this to be an effective approach toward handling most of the issues related to Club administration. Meetings, telephone conversations and various other forms of communication are also used as needed. The Birmingham Fencing Club maintains a helpful web site that includes current information on classes, tournament schedules, clinics, the complete text of this handbook, Club newsletters, and information related to the Club and fencing in general. For information or questions regarding the Club or the sport of fencing, contact: David P. Arias President [email protected] Home – 824-6635 Cell – 515-3902 Coach Wang and Coach Sun BFC coaches [email protected] Cell – 567-5918

www.fencingclub.org

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Birmingham Fencing Club Philosophy The Birmingham Fencing Club has been given an extraordinary opportunity to build a national fencing center in Birmingham. Coaches Sun and Wang have the talent and experience to teach, train and motivate individual students toward their maximum potential based on their individual abilities. We are particularly aware of the role young people will have in the growth and development of the Birmingham Fencing Club. Likewise, we recognize the opportunity we have in their growth and development. In addition to the mental and physical benefits inherent in the sport of fencing, we also strive to develop self-esteem, personal responsibility, confidence, teamwork and the ability to set and achieve goals. We recognize that people join fencing classes for reasons other than the desire to wear an Olympic gold medal. This includes students whose primary goal is to maintain or develop physical fitness, while enjoying the unique excitement and challenges offered through the sport of fencing. Fencing is one of the most aerobic sports available, but one that can easily accommodate the individual needs. Club programs will remain flexible enough to adapt to changes in the composition of classes and to the personal goals of each student.

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Coaching Staff Our coaches will be working closely with club fencers and with any additional instructors so that they are well prepared to teach you the sport of fencing. This will involve training sessions several times each week. Their commitment, and the quality of training they receive, will provide you with the highest level of instruction. The Birmingham Fencing Club will also hold clinics and tournaments throughout the year that will build upon the training received in class. There is no way to overstate the quality of training you will receive. Hongyun Sun and Yuanjing Wang are two of the best coaches in the United States. They moved to Birmingham from Tianjin, China in 1998 to develop a national fencing center here. You can see more information about our coaches, and how they decided to come to Birmingham, on the Birmingham Fencing Club web site. Prior to joining the Birmingham Fencing Club, Coach Hongyun Sun was the Chinese National Fencing Team women's coach. As a competitor in foil and epee, she has earned a long list of national and international medals including a 7th individual and a 5th team place in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. She has been a coach for more than 18 years and many of her students have been equally successful in international competition. Coach Yuanjing Wang was the Chinese National Fencing Team sabre coach (also coached all three weapons as head coach for the Tianjin Fencing Club). As a competitor in foil, he has earned a long list of national and Asian medals including Chinese National Foil Champion and Asian National Foil Champion. He has been a coach for more than 23 years and many of his students have been equally successful. Coach Wang is also an internationally rated director (referee in the 1992 and 1996 Olympics). He was also coach for the Hing Kong wheelchair fencing team.

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What is a typical class like? Stretching and Warm-up: Each class begins with stretching and warm-up exercises. Your instructors have the training to make this process great fun, incorporating a wide variety of games to promote flexibility and increase aerobic fitness. This is also intended to reduce the risk of muscle or joint injuries, since fencing involves rapid actions. This lasts about 15 - 30 minutes at the beginning of each class and is organized as a group, led by your instructors. Classes provide students with a basic understanding of the sport. Drills are generally done as a class or in smaller groups. These include bladework, footwork, and tactics, and generally last 15 – 30 minutes. When they are ready, the last half-hour of class will give students a chance to bout with other students or the instructors. Students will learn these fundamental skills: Bladework: This is one of the most difficult skills to master. Bladework permits a skilled fencer to deceive his opponent and reach the target, even if his opponent tries to defend himself. Footwork: This is the most physically demanding skill. Footwork permits a fencer to change positions and distance, and can be combined with blade work to score a point or to allow a fencer to avoid an attack from an opponent. Tactics: These are the plans and counter plans used by fencers to combine blade and foot work, based on their understanding of actions made by their opponent. Bouting: Classes will include carefully supervised competition between fencers. This provides practical experience, and it is also the part of class that students enjoy most. They will learn to apply the basic skills developed during class.

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Safety Rules Students will be instructed in the proper safety procedures regarding weapons and their uniforms. Several of the most important rules are fairly obvious: 1. The tip of weapon must always be pointed downward. 2. When performing drills with other students, the coaches, or working with a practice dummy, fencers must always be in complete uniform. 3. Do not walk across any part of a fencing strip when others are using it. The masks have significant blind spots, and the action on the strip is generally very rapid. 4. Fencers cannot remove their masks when bouting until the referee or coach has called "Halt!" and it is acknowledged by both fencers. 5. No running or horse play in the gymnasium. It is possible that a student might incur minor injuries to their legs if shorts are worn, and long pants are suggested for our classes. Fencing knickers can be purchased for approximately $40. A less expensive alternative is baseball pants, which are available at most sporting goods stores (although these cannot be used in competition). With the fencing knickers and baseball pants, long socks must be worn to cover the shins. Female fencers are required to use breast protectors with their uniforms. These are provided for all girls taking classes and are made of plastic or steel cups placed inside the jackets. Although the United States Fencing Association does not require that boys wear athletic supporters during competition, we recommend that they be worn during class.

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The Weapons Foil, epée and sabre are the three weapons used in the sport of fencing. While it is not unusual for fencers to compete in all three events, they generally choose to develop their skills in one weapon. Foil and epée are point-thrusting weapons. Sabre is a point-thrusting as well as a cutting weapon. The target areas differ for the three weapons, though all three are scored electrically. Object: The main object of a fencing bout (what an individual "game" is called) is to effectively score 15 points (in direct elimination play) or five points (in preliminary pool play) on an opponent before they score that number on you. Each time a fencer scores a touch, they receive a point. Direct elimination matches consist of three three-minute periods; pools consist of one three-minute period. Foil: The foil has a flexible rectangular blade, approximately 35 inches in length, weighing less than one pound. Points are scored with the tip of the blade and must land within the torso of the body. The valid target area in foil is the torso, front and back. It does not include the arms, neck, head and legs. The foil fencer's uniform includes a metallic vest (called a lamé) which covers the valid target area, so that a valid touch will register on the scoring machine. A small, spring-loaded tip is attached to the point of the foil and is connected to a wire inside the blade. The fencer wears a body cord inside his uniform, that connects the foil to a reel wire, and then to the scoring machine. There are two scoring lights on the machine. One shows a green light when a fencer is hit, and one shows a red light when her opponent is hit. A touch landing outside the valid target area (that which is not covered by the lamé) is indicated by a white light. These "off target" hits do not count in the scoring, but they do stop the fencing action temporarily. Epée: The epée (pronounced "EPP-pay"), the descendant of the dueling sword, is similar in length to the foil, but is heavier, weighing approximately 27 ounces. It also has a larger guard (to protect the hand from a valid hit) and a stiffer blade. Touches are scored only with the point of the blade. The entire body is the valid target area. The blade is wired with a spring-loaded tip at the end that completes an electrical circuit when depressed beyond a pressure of 750 grams. This causes the colored bulb on the scoring machine to light. Because the entire body is a valid target area, the epée fencer's uniform does not include a lamé. Off-target hits do not register on the machine. Sabre: The sabre is the modern version of the slashing cavalry sword, and is similar in length and weight to the foil. The major difference is that the sabre is a thrusting weapon as well as a cutting weapon (use of the blade edge). The target area is from the bend of the hips (both front and back), to the top of the head, simulating the cavalry rider on a horse. The sabre fencer's uniform includes a metallic jacket (lamé) that covers the target area to register a valid touch on the scoring machine. The mask is different from foil and epée, with a metallic covering since the head is valid target area. Just as in foil, there are two scoring lights on the machine. One shows a green light when a fencer is hit, and one shows a red light when the opponent is hit. Off-target hits do not register on the machine. 9

Right-Of-Way: One of the most difficult concepts to visualize in foil and sabre fencing is the rule of right-of-way. This rule was established to eliminate apparently simultaneous attacks by two fencers. In essence, right-of-way is the differentiation of offense and defense, as determined by the referee. The difference is important only when both the red and green lights go on at the same time in foil and sabre. When this happens, the winner of the point is the one who the referee determined was on offense at the time the lights went on. Epée does not use the right-ofway in keeping with its dueling origin - he who first gains the touch earns the point. If both fencers hit within 1/25th of a second of each other, however, both earn a point. It is especially important to have a sound defense for epée, since the entire body must be protected from a touch. How to Follow the Action: For those new to fencing, it is difficult to follow the lightning speed of the fencers' actions. To become more comfortable in watching a fencing bout, focus on one fencer. The fencer being attacked defends himself by use of a parry (a motion used to deflect the opponent's blade). After a parry, the defender can make a riposte (an answering attack). Thus, the two adversaries keep changing between offense and defense. Whenever a hit is made, the referee will stop the bout, describe the actions, and decide whether or not to award a touch. Fencers seek to maintain a safe distance from each other, one that is out of range of the other's attack. Each fencer will try to break this distance to gain the advantage for an attack. At times, a fencer will make a false attack to gauge the types of reactions by the opponent. This is one example of the mental aspects of fencing. As students become accustomed to the speed of the game, the tactics and strategies become more apparent, and they will gain a better understanding for the finesse and fascination of fencing! Competition Rules The rules governing the sport of fencing are all founded in the need for safety. In addition to specific rules of the sport, there are rules strictly governing conduct while fencing. These rules are designed to prevent some of the issues listed below:  Unintentional contact with an opponent  Turning your back on an opponent  Raising or removing your mask during competition or practice  Covering target areas  Using your unarmed hand for any reason  Deliberately causing contact with an opponent  Leaving the fencing strip without permission  Any person disturbing order on the strip  Unsportsmanlike behavior

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Because these issues have been carefully addressed over the long history of the sport, they rarely become an issue during competition. The commitment of our coaches to enforcing these rules further maintains order and safety during all Birmingham Fencing Club activities. Students will learn more about these rules as their knowledge of the sport increases. They can be divided into four basic categories: 1. Rules dealing with the fencers during competition 2. Rules that determine the priority of attack during competition 3. Penalties designed to address infractions of the rules, increasing with the seriousness of the infraction 4. Organization rules related to how competitions are conducted

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Code of Conduct The Birmingham Fencing Club Code of Conduct is designed to provide an environment that allows every student and competitor the opportunity to reach their individual goals. This assumes an atmosphere of mutual respect during all practices, tournaments, demonstrations or any other Club activity. Each fencer, coach and parent should also help support the goals of their team. In the best interests of everyone in the program, however, we believe that it is important to clearly state the conduct expected of everyone associated with the Birmingham Fencing Club. Students and competitors are expected to:  Represent the Birmingham Fencing Club with team spirit, sportsmanship and respect.  Follow the directions of the coaching staff and any chaperones at all times.  Use appropriate language and specifically avoid the use of profane or abusive language or obscene gestures.  Avoid all drinking of alcohol, use of tobacco products, use of illegal drugs, or use of any substance banned by any regulatory body associated with the sport of fencing, unless prescribed by a physician.  Avoid all intentional or inappropriate touching, fighting, striking another fencer with a weapon or in any other manner.  Respect the property of others and specifically avoid vandalism, intentional damage or theft of their property.  Leave a practice, tournament or other Birmingham Fencing Club activity prior to its conclusion only with the permission of a coach or other responsible party.  Avoid any disruption of a class, practice or private lesson.  Failure to follow the Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary measures assigned at the discretion of the coaches. This can include suspension or expulsion from Club classes, practices, activities and/or tournaments.

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United States Fencing Association The U nited S tates F encing A sso ciatio n (“USFA”) is the national governing body for fencing. They are a non-profit organization based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The USFA coordinates all competitions and administers programs for thousands of fencers, coaches and officials. It is also the exclusive representative fo r the F ederatio n Internatio nale d’E scrim e (“FIE”) and the United States Olympic Committee (“USOC”). The USFA is responsible for selecting and training the U.S. National and Olympic Teams for worldwide competition. The USFA is governed by officers and a board of directors elected by its members. The board of directors establishes the rules, by-laws and regulations. Each state or other geographic area has a Division that is authorized by the USFA to govern and administer amateur fencing in its territory in accordance with USFA regulations. Our division includes the state of Alabama. All activities are directed by the National Office in accordance with the policies set by the board of directors. The Alabama Division is an integral part of the USFA. Its activities are managed under the ultimate direction of the board of directors of the USFA. The Alabama Division is not an autonomous legal entity, but an administrative unit. Its primary purpose is to conduct competitions within the Alabama Division territory including Divisional and Sectional Championships, and Divisional Qualifying rounds for the National Championships. Individual clubs can elect to become members of the USFA but are independent entities. A comprehensive liability insurance policy is available to member clubs. It is the policy of the Birmingham Fencing Club to maintain its active membership status in the USFA, which includes a $2 million liability insurance policy. The Amateur Sports Act of 1978 specifically named the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) as the coordinating body for amateur athletic activity in the U.S. directly relating to international Olympic athletic competition. The Act included provisions for recognizing National Governing Bodies (NGBs) for the sports on the programs of the Olympic and Pan American Games. The United States Fencing Association (USFA) is the recognized NGB for the sport of fencing in the United States. The USFA was founded in 1891 as the Amateur Fencers League of America (AFLA) by a group of New York fencers seeking independence from the Amateur Athletic Union. The AFLA changed its name to the United States Fencing Association in 1981.

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The USFA is affiliated with the Féderation Internationale d'Escrime (FIE), the international federation for fencing founded in Paris in 1913. The USFA was incorporated as a non-profit corporation in Pennsylvania in 1964 and in Colorado in 1993 in compliance with the Amateur Sports Act and opened its national office at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. in August of 1982. Carla-Mae Richards was hired as the USFA's first full-time Executive Director in 1983 and served in that capacity until 1994. A Strategic Planning Commission met in 1992 to charter a course for the USFA's future. A planning group then met in 1995 and re-examined the organization's mission and goals. Mission: The mission of the USFA is to develop fencers to achieve international success and to administer and promote the sport in the USA. Goals:  earn international medals  expand membership  increase the number and quality of coaches and integrate them into the USFA  increase public interest in fencing  make the USFA an effective and efficient organization. Team Selection In keeping with its mission, the USFA sends teams to the World Championships, the World Under-20 Championships, the World Under-17 Championships, the Pan American Senior Championships and the Pan American Junior Championships. In addition, the USFA develops programs to assist its top athletes towards achieving international results. The USFA selects teams to represent the U.S. at the Olympic Games, Pan American Games, and World University Games. Domestically, USFA programs range from grassroots to coaching education. Junior Olympics USFA grassroots success in attracting young people is evident at the annual Junior Olympic Fencing Championships (JOs). The JOs continue to break records in the number of participants and the number of entries. The event started in 1972 with 100 fencers in four events. In 1996, the event attracted 1,240 fencers in 26 events over five age categories - Under-20, Under-17, Under15, Under-13 and Under-11. The event became so large that it was restructured for 1997 and beyond. Only Under-20 and Under-17 events will be held. National Championships The USFA also conducts the National Championships each year. This event, like the JOs, attracts more than 2,400 fencers annually. The Nationals began in 1892 and were held in New York City until 1939, when they were held in San Francisco and began moving to other cities. Today, they are held in locations across the U.S. 14

National Championships Events Youth-14, -12, -10: Men's Foil, Épée, Saber & Women's Foil, Épée, Saber Division I, Division IA, II & III, Under-19, Under-16, Team (Open & Under-19): Men's Foil, Épée, Saber & Women's Foil, Épée, Saber Veterans (40 & over): Events are held in various age categories for Men's Foil, Épée, Saber & Women's Foil, Épée, Saber. Classifications The USFA issues classifications of A, B, C, D and E to its competitive fencers, with A being the highest level. Fencers may earn classifications through improved performance at high-level events. Division II national events are for fencers classified "C" and below, while Division III events are for "D" and below. Ratings can generally not be earned at age restricted events (Youth 12 for example). North American Cups The North American Cups (NACs) are the USFA's key national-level competitions throughout the competitive season. Four are held for the Open category, while there are two each season for the Under-20, -17, -15, -13 and -11 age groups. Fencers are not restricted to one age category they may compete above their age category. The USFA started a Division II and Division III NAC in 1995. This is intended to be a developmental event, not just for fencers but also for referees, armorers, and other official personnel. Fencers must be at least 13 years of age, however, to compete in Open competitions (that include adults). Point Standings The USFA compiles point standings, or national rankings, throughout the season for the Open, Under-20, Under-17, Youth-14, Youth-12 and Youth-10 categories. Fencers earn points based on placement at national events and certain international events. These standings are used to select U.S. teams. National Team The USFA began naming a National Team in 1989. Each year, the country's top fencers earn spots on the team, based on the national point standings. Veterans Events for Veterans (over the age of 40) are now more common at both the national and international levels. In 1995, the U.S. hosted an international Veterans event in Florida.

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Fencing Programs All Birmingham Fencing Club practices and classes are held at the Club facility. The original 2,600 square foot facility includes a specially-designed floor that accommodates six fencing strips. As of September 1, 2005, the Club expanded to a total of 6,100 square feet, with a total of 12 fencing strips (7 or 8 strips for competition). Our address is 1425 Montgomery Highway (Highway 31) in Vestavia Hills, in Suite 25 of the Park South shopping plaza where Diplomat Deli and Pier One Imports are located. The Club is located around back of the building using a one-way drive next to Pier One Imports (the right side of the mall if you are facing it). In addition to being an exciting and challenging sport, fencing provides a great way to get in shape and relieve stress. There are no age (our coaches generally recommend that students be at least 7 years age before attending classes), gender or weight restrictions for most of these classes. Students can progress at their own pace. No equipment will be needed at first, just wear loose comfortable clothing and tennis shoes. Try one of these convenient classes and you will soon see why the sport of fencing has become so popular! Visitors are always welcome to any BFC class or practice! Birmingham Fencing Club Advanced classes are designed for experienced fencers in sabre, epee and foil. The focus in the Advanced classes is on fencing at a competitive level with increased emphasis on strategy and tactics. Students will advance from Beginning to Intermediate to Advanced classes at their own pace and when recommended to do so by the Clu b’s co aches. There are no formal steps as with other sports. We want to be sure students are challenged but not frustrated. Requirements: There are no special physical requirements to learn the sport of fencing. Height, weight and gender are not important. Fencing provides a good work-out, but anyone can participate. The more you learn, the more demanding the sport becomes. What to bring: You need to wear loose, comfortable clothes and athletic shoes. You can bring a large bottle of water (not glass) or container of PowerAde type products. What we provide: We provide all the equipment needed to learn the sport of fencing (Beginning classes only). A vending machine and water fountain are available at the Club. How to register: You can simply register the first day of class. Registration materials include a Student Handbook (which is available in its entirety on the Club web site), a Birmingham Fencing Club registration form which includes a liability waiver and a medical waiver, a fencer information form, and a USFA membership application.

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Student Pick-up and Drop-off: Students will be practicing the entire class period and parents are expected to pick up their children immediately afterwards. You are welcome to come early and observe class. If special arrangements must be made for pick up, they must be made in advance with the coaches. Advanced Classes: All Advanced classes are designed for advanced youth and adult students. Fencers are required to have their own equipment, and should make every effort to arrive at the beginning of every class to participate in warm-ups and group training. They are also encouraged to attend Club practices on Saturdays from 10:00am to 1:00pm and other Open Fencing sessions. Intermediate Class: Fencing is an individual sport and some students will be ready for intermediate-level training sooner than others. These decisions will be made by the coaches on an individual basis. This is done to ensure that students are ready for a higher level of training, with safety being a key consideration. Students will be required to purchase their own equipment before participating in the Intermediate Class, or within three months of starting classes, whichever comes first. Beginning Classes: Students will attend Beginning classes once or twice each week. Our coaches expect that most students will continue in the Beginning Class for a number of months before moving to the Intermediate Class. All equipment is provided at no additional cost. Open Fencing: Just like the name implies, Open Fencing is available to Intermediate and Advanced students wherever it is noted in the Club schedule. This provides an opportunity to fence with students from other classes, and at different skill levels. Students will be required to purchase their own equipment before participating in Open Fencing. Unless otherwise stated, open fencing times will be held on strips 10, 11 and 12 every weekday afternoon from 3:30 to 5:30, on Monday/Wednesday/Friday evenings from 5:30 to 9:30, and on Saturdays from 10:00am to 1:00pm. Finders Fees: Once you join the Birmingham Fencing Club, you can earn a one-time $10 finders fee for every new student who signs up for a class after you, and mentions your name, up to $60 each month. Family Discounts: For each student joining the Birmingham Fencing Club at the regular monthly fee, each additional member of the same immediate family will receive a 15% discount on their class fees (does not include private lesson fees) up to a maximum monthly class fee of $210.60 per family. Private Lessons: Our coaches give private lessons, but these are generally reserved for the more experienced fencers. You will find that most experienced fencers, however, are themselves willing to spend one-on-one time working with the newer students. Fees for both coaches are $25 per 25 minute lesson. 17

Class Fees The Birmingham Fencing Club provides instruction within a class setting. Open Fencing, Private Lessons, Competitions, Clinics and other training opportunities are available to fencers in order to help them reach their individual fencing goals. The basic fees for membership in the BFC are $78 per month. A discount of 5% is available if class fees are paid six months in advance, 10% if paid one year in advance. Payment of Fees Fees are due by the 1st of the month, with a grace period until the 10th of the month. A $10 late fee will be added to any class fees not paid by the 10th of the month. If a fencer does not pay for scheduled private lessons by the 10th of the month, they may be given to other fencers. There will be no credit for a fencer’s m o nthly fees if the clu b is clo sed fo r a ho liday o r fo r the co aches to attend an out-of-town tournament with a large number of fencers from the Club. Violations of this policy may result in a student being barred from class until fees are paid. There is a lock box in the Club for payment of fees. Checks for monthly fees should be placed in an envelo pe w ith the fencer’s nam e (this is particu larly im po rtant if the fencer’s last nam e is different from the name on the check) and dropped in the slot in the lock box. Checks for all other paym ents to the C lub, such as cam p fees, C oach’s travel exp enses to to urnam ents, fencing score pads, club patches, division patches, and car window decals, should also be placed in an envelope and dropped in the slot in the lock box. Please be sure to write your name on the envelope and specify what the payment is for. Floor Fees Floor fee for Occasional Visiting Fencers - $20 per visit Fencing Season Fencing instruction is provided throughout the year. Tournaments are generally held beginning in September and ending with the Summer National Championships in early July

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Club Membership and USFA Membership Requirement Any person who participates in any fencing activities at the Club must complete a Birmingham Fencing Club Membership Form & Medical Release, and that form must remain on file at the Club. If the fencer is less than 18 years old, a parent or guardian must sign the form. Blank co pies o f these fo rm s are available in the C lu b m ail bo x labeled “B F C R eg. F o rm s”. T he completed forms should be placed back in this same mail box. We hope that our Club members will help us by reminding new fencers and visitors of the need to complete one of these forms before fencing. These forms are required under the terms of our insurance coverage. An active Club member is a person who pays monthly Club fees and fences at their appropriate class times on a regular basis. An inactive Club member may reactivate their Club membership at any time by resuming the payment of monthly Club fees. A fencer who pays floor fees is considered a visitor and not a member of the Club. In order to compete in a tournament, fencers must be members of the United States Fencing Association. USFA membership is $50 per season for an individual or $100 per season for a family (the family membership will cover 2 competitive members and 2 non-competitive or associate members). The fencing season runs from August 1 until July 31. All USFA members will be permitted to vote in the Alabama Division elections. It is recommended that you renew your USFA membership at the beginning of the fencing season, in early August. If you plan to compete in a tournament before you receive your USFA membership card in the mail, you can request a fax showing your good standing as a USFA member, and this will be accepted by the tournament organizer as proof of your USFA membership. Since you will be required to show your USFA membership card every time you sign in at a fencing tournament, we recommend keeping it in a safe place in your fencing bag. If the fencer is a child, the parent may also want to keep a copy of the current USFA membership card in the parent’s w allet. USFA membership forms are available at the Club.

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BFC National Team As noted earlier in this handbook, attending national level tournaments represents a serious commitment by fencers and their families. The BFC created the National Team to provide these fencers with additional training and other benefits in order to help fencers reach their individual goals. Fencers who plan to attend any of the national tournaments during the year will need to do two things: 1. Indicate that you plan to do so by adding your name to the National Team list posted on the Club bulletin board. If possible, indicate which national tournaments you plan to attend. This for planning purposes only and you will not be held responsible for attending that tournament. 2. Pay a fee of $125, $100 of which will apply to your first national tournament. This fee should be paid by October 15, but can be paid later during the year as well. There are significant benefits to joining the National Team and making that decision early in the season. Benefits include the following:  A special uniform patch for National Team members  Special clinics held throughout the year  10% discount on all BFC camps and clinics  Free equipment repairs (not including replacement of broken blades or cords)  Additional information throughout the year on topics such as training and nutrician

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Equipment Purchases Fencers are required to purchase their own equipment after they have been fencing for three months (unless equipment is rented from the Club as noted below). Fencers will also want their own equipment, since it will be a better fit, which is safer, and because they will be more confident of their own abilities when they are using their own equipment. Most of the fencers in the Club order their equipment through Coach Wang. Neither Coach Wang nor the Birmingham Fencing Club earn any profit from the sale of equipment to fencers. If you are a new fencer and you are thinking about purchasing fencing equipment, here are some ideas you may want to consider. The basic equipment that Coach Wang usually recommends for beginners is shown below. This is good serviceable entry level equipment. He generally orders from Blue Gauntlet or Absolute Fencing Gear, and he can usually arrange for you to receive a 10% discount off the prices shown below. Women will need to add the breast or chest protector. Y o u do n’t need to bu y all o f yo ur equ ip m ent at o nce, if yo u are no t read y to do that. Y o u co uld start with just a glove and a mask and one weapon and one body cord, or any other combination of pieces. You will need all of the items listed for your weapon in order to participate in a USFA tournament, including a minimum of 2 working weapons and 2 body cords, but you can usually arrange to borrow a few pieces from the club to use for competitions until you have accumulated all of your own equipment. You might want to check which pieces the club has available for loan in your size before deciding which pieces to include in your initial purchase. The items listed in the table below are shown in the Blue Gauntlet catalog. Similar items are available from Absolute Fencing Gear. Product lines and prices change frequently, and Coach Wang will order from the company currently offering the best product at the best price. After you have been fencing for some time, you may decide to upgrade certain pieces of your equipment. As with all sports, equipment is available in many different levels of quality and price. Fencers who choose not to purchase their equipment after three months, have the option of renting it from the Club for a cost of $30 per month.

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Item Foil Epee Sabre Glove (1) $20 $20 $20 Mask (2)(3) $55 $55 $82 Weapon (4)(5)(6) $47 $55 $53 … seco nd w eapo n $47 $55 $53 Body Cord (7)(8) $13 $13 $13 … seco nd bo d y co rd $13 $13 $13 Mask Cord (9) N/A N/A $7 Lame (10)(11) $65 N/A $89 Cuff (12) N/A N/A $13 Jacket (13)(14) $50 $50 $69 Knickers (15) $39 $39 $39 Plastron (16) $16 $16 $16 Fencing Bag (17) $38 $38 $38 TOTAL $403.00 $354.00 $505.00 <40.30> <35.40> <50.50> TOTAL $362.70 $318.60 $454.50 Plus shipping costs +21.76 +19.12 +27.27 TOTAL $384.46 $337.72 $481.77 Women – Breast Protectors* $7 $7 $7 Women – Chest Protector* $27 $27 $27 *All women and girls are required to wear either breast protectors or a full chest protector. (1) Glove [SG Purple Washable 3 weapon glove] [Epee, Foil or Sabre] [$20] (2) Mask [BG 1000nw Olympic mask] [Epee or Foil only] [$55] (3) Mask [BG 800nw Electric Sabre Mask] [Sabre only] [$82] (4) Epee [BG Electric Epee with German tip & pistol grip] [$55] (5) Foil [BG Super Electric Foil with German tip & pistol grip] [$47] (6) Sabre [BG Electric Sabre] [$53] (7) Body Cord [BG 2 prong foil & sabre body cord] [Foil or Sabre only] [$13] (8) Body Cord [BG epee body cord] [Epee only] [$13] (9) Mask Cord [BG sabre connection wire] [Sabre only] [$7] (10) Lame [BG Foil Lame] [Foil only] [$65] (11) Lame [BG Sabre Lame] [Sabre only] [$89] (12) Cuff [BG Electric Sabre Cuff] [Sabre only] [$13] (13) Jacket [BG C/N Jacket – front zip] [Epee or Foil only] [$50} (14) Jacket [BG front zip Stretch Jacket] [Sabre only; could use for Foil or Epee] [$69] (15) Knickers [BG Stretch Pants] [Epee, Foil or Sabre] [$39] (16) Plastron [BG Cotton Plastron or under protector] [Epee, Foil or Sabre] [$16] (17) Bag [SG deluxe bag] [Epee, Foil or Sabre] [$38] 22

(18) Breast Protectors [BG Breast Protector] [Epee, Foil or Sabre] [$7/pair] (19) Chest Protector [BG Full Chest Protector] [Epee, Foil or Sabre; women only] [$27] Equipment orders T here is a m ail bo x in the C lu b o ffice labeled “E qu ip m ent O rders”. T hat bo x co ntains blank Equipment Order Request forms and also a list of suggested entry level equipment for each weapon and the approximate price for each such piece of equipment. Your completed Equipment Order Request forms should be placed back in that same mail box labeled “E qu ip m ent O rders”. It is o ften help fu l to try o n ano ther fencer’s jacket, lam e, etc. to co nfirm the size before the order is placed. When the new equipment arrives, Coach Wang will notify you, and you will write a check to “Y uanjing W ang” fo r the total am o unt o f the purchase.

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Competition in Tournaments Students can generally learn the basics of the sport of fencing in two or three months. The coaches will determine when a fencer is ready to compete in tournaments. This is strictly optional for the students. Students competing in tournaments will be required to purchase their own equipment, although the Club does have a few practice uniforms and weapons that can be used until a fencer purchases his own. The primary benefit to competing in tournaments, aside from the fact that it is really a lot of fun, is the opportunity to learn more advanced strategy and tactics and to fence more experienced fencers. After several months of experience, depending on the number of practices each week and based o n the co ach’s reco m m endatio n, students m ay w ant to co m pete in lo cal o r reg io nal fencing tournaments. The Birmingham Fencing Club holds a number of tournaments throughout the year, several of which are specifically designed for new students. Competitors must be members of the USFA. Fencers between the ages of 8 and 12 will be required to compete in youth events (fencers must be 13 years old to compete in Open tournaments). The Birmingham Fencing Club generally hosts a Regional Youth Circuit event for the USFA in the fall of each year. In addition, all BFC tournaments will include youth events. Fencers ages 13 and up will have more tournaments available to them. They should consider the m o nthly to urnam ents at the C lu b, the C lu b’s annual B estim m tag to urnam ent in the fall, the C lu b’s annual W rig ht M em o rial to urnam ent in the spring, and the C lu b’s V ulcan Open tournament in June of each year (all three tournaments in youth events as well). These fencers should also consider the tournaments hosted by other clubs in the surrounding area, such as the Atlanta Fencers Club, the Vanderbilt University Fencing Club, the Ole Miss or Oxford Fencing Club, etc. A ll of th e B irm in gh am F en cin g C lu b ’s tou rn am en ts, an d m an y of th e tou rn am en ts h osted by nearby clubs, will be listed on AskFred.net. Pre-registration for these tournaments is handled online on AskFred.net. It is important to pre-register, because most tournaments charge a late fee if you fail to pre-register, which sometimes results in double or even triple registration fees. When you pre-register, print out a registration form and bring it with you to the tournament. Most tournaments will require a waiver signed by a parent in order for a youth fencer to be permitted to fence in the tournament. N otice o f the C lu b’s to urnam ents and tho se o f clu bs in nearby states w ill be g iven o n the C lu b’s monthly calendars and in the monthly newsletters. Additional information is generally available o n A sk F red.net or o n the ho st clu b’s w ebsite.

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After a fencer has some experience in Club or local tournaments, he may want to compete in a National American Championship tournament, referred to as a NAC. Information on these tournaments is also included in this Student Handbook. It is the respo nsib ility o f the fencer (and the fencer’s parents, if the fencer is u nder 18 years o f age) to ensure that all tournament entry forms are completed and submitted in a timely manner, and that all qualification procedures are satisfied in accordance with the requirements for each tournament. Tournament entries Entry forms for upcoming tournaments hosted by the Club are available in the holder on the wall by the bulletin bo ards. E ntry fo rm s m ay also be printed fro m the “M o re Info ” page fo r that tournament on AskFred.net. Even though you pre-register for a tournament on AskFred.net, you must still complete an entry form with the appropriate signatures on the waivers and turn it in, along with your payment, before you may fence in the tournament. This can be done at registration on the day of the tournament or at the Club prior to the tournament. Tournament Reports After each tournament in which a fencer competes, the fencer is encouraged to provide to Coach Wang a Tournament Report which specifies the name of the tournament, the host and venue of the to urnam ent, the events in w hich the fencer co m peted, the fencer’s final p lacem ent in each o f those events, the total number of competitors in each of those events, and the rating of each of tho se events. T his info rm atio n w ill be added to the fencer’s reco rd at the C lu b. T his repo rt should be given to Coach Wang on the first day the fencer comes to the Club after the tournament. The fencer should complete one Tournament Report for each event in which he competes. Blank Tournament Report forms are available in the “T o urnam ent R epo rts” m ail bo x at the Club. Completed Tournament Reports should be placed in that same “T o urnam ent R epo rts” m ail bo x o n the fencer’s first day back at the Club after the tournament.

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P olicy for P aym en t of C oach ’s T ravel E xp en ses to T ou rn am en ts 1. Each Club fencer who attends a tournament which has been designated by Coach Wang as an out-of-town tournament where coaching will be available (which will generally consist of Summer Nationals and NACs and Sectional tournaments and other large regional events attended by a number of fencers from the Club) will pay a flat fee of $100 for each such tournament. There is a 15% discount for each family member from the same immediate family attending the same tournament. 2. The flat fee is to cover travel expenses for the coach attending the tournament and is not related to any decision by a fencer to pay for coaching at the tournament. 3. All such money shall be paid to the Birmingham Fencing Club. 4. All such money shall be deposited into a separate reserve to be used only for payment of coach's travel costs for tournaments. 5. Any fencer who wants coaching at the tournament shall pay a coaching fee directly to Yuanjing Wang. The coaching fee shall be determined after it is known how many fencers will be attending a specific tournament, but before the application deadline for the tournament. Experience has shown that this expense will generally not be more than $30 for the first event, and $20 for each additional event at the tournament. Coach Wang will provide coaching to all fencers who want coaching at the tournament to the best of his ability. He shall have complete discretion to determine how to allocate his coaching time. His decision will be based on what will be in the best interest of the fencers and the club as a whole. 7. Payment of the $100 flat fee is mandatory. Any fencer who attends such a tournament without paying the flat fee will not be permitted to participate in classes at the Birmingham Fencing Club until such fees are paid. No member of the club shall be exempt from payment of the flat fee. 9. Coach Wang will look at the tournament schedule at the beginning of the year in order to determine which tournaments he is likely to attend during the course of that year. A schedule of those tournaments shall be posted. Coach Wang shall have complete discretion to determine which tournaments he will attend during the fencing year. His decision will be based on his assessment of what will be in the best interest of the fencers and the club as a whole. Coach W ang ’s d iscretio n shall include the right to choose to use funds from the escrow account in order to attend any national or international competition with one or more fencers from the club if, in his judgment, his attendance at that tournament is in the best interest of the club.

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Projected Costs for Attendance at Tournaments Participation in a national level tournament can be expensive. Most tournaments are a significant distance from the Club, so travel related expenses can be the biggest part of this expense. This represents a significant commitment on the part of a fencer and his family. Coach Wang can provide guidance regarding when participation in a national level tournament is appropriate. USFA Membership - $50 per year Full equipment required – cost varies with weapon – generally ranges from $350 to $500 for a complete set of equipment, but most fencers will have already accumulated at least some of their equipment before their first tournament Registration and/or entry fees – can range from $10 for a small tournament at the Club to $30 registration fee plus $50 for each event for a national level tournament or an international tournament C o ach’s travel co st - generally, each fencer pays a $100 flat fee for each tournament Coach attends for the Club Coaching fees - generally $30 for the first event plus $20 for additional events Hotel, airfare, gas, etc. – will vary depending on the location of the tournament

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General Guide for Parents Attending Tournaments and What to Expect at a NAC or National Championship Tournament Your child may or may not want you next to the fencing strip. Some youngsters find it reassuring; most find that they put added pressure upon themselves when performing in front of parents. Some fencers may change their minds about wanting parents around during the course of the tournament; they may or may not remember to be polite when requesting that you leave. Please don't take it personally - let them know you understand and then disappear. Talk with your fencer about what he/she would like before you go to the tournament, but be prepared for changes of mind. The North American Cup (NAC) events are a series of national competitions organized by the United States Fencing Association (USFA). These are much larger than the typical local or regional tournament, sometimes with 40 fencing strips and thousands of competitors. Competing in a NAC is a privilege, and your coaches take them very seriously. The Birmingham Fencing Club is on the way toward building one of the strongest youth programs in the country. While that is not our primary goal as a club, it is the obvious result when great coaches and dedicated athletes share a love for the sport of fencing. The fact that the USFA recently asked us to host one of only three Regional Youth Circuit tournaments in the Southeast is a recognition of the commitment shared by fencer, parent, coach and teammates. We also know that not every fencer can win the gold medal or go to the Olympics. National competitions are an arena for helping fencers reach for the limits of their ability, not just to win medals. Just being invited to go means that a fencer has already shown their dedication and skill. National competitions provide a chance to compete against the best in the country, which often brings out the best in a fencer, regardless of where they finish. The Southeast is a relatively weak section of the country, so national competition is even more important to the Birmingham Fencing Club. Competing becomes an important component of their training. There are seven different age groups for competition. The rules regarding qualification in certain catagories is too involved to list here, but the Club and the USFA can help you. Age is determined as of January 1st of the competitive season (August 1st through July 31st). Veteran (over 40) Open (13 and over) Junior (under 20 over 13) Cadet (under 17 over 13) Youth-14 (under 15 over 11) Youth-12 (under 13 over 9) Youth-10 (under 11 over 7)

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Once you arrive at the tournament, the fencer must check in. Not a parent, not a sibling, but the fencer. Preferably an hour before the close of registration. The fencer should have ready at check-in his/her confirmation letter which he/she will receive from USFA and their USFA membership card. Read the Confirmation Letter carefully. The confirmation letter is a separate letter pertaining to the event(s) your child has entered. If you have a receipt of entry, bring this also. If there is a problem with your registration you will have the proper documentation necessary to fix the problem immediately. Once the fencer has checked in, he/she may not leave the venue. If the fencer is not at the strip at the start of his/her event, they will be scratched!!! This means they will not be allowed to fence in that event. What this would mean to you, the parent, is that you have just spent money for nothing. After they have registered for their events, all competitors must get their equipment checked at the armorer table. Equipment Required for Competitive Events: MASK (sewn-in bib, must pass 12K punch test) UNDERARM PROTECTOR JACKET (no holes, must close in back or opposite weapon arm) with last name on the back for epee (or on the back leg of the pants) LAME (if foil or sabre) with last name on the back (or on the back leg of the pants) KNICKERS (no holes, must close in back or opposite weapon arm, must be overlapped by jacket by at least 4 inches) GLOVE (no holes, except for body cord. Must cover approximately half your forearm) LONG SOCKS (white, must reach bottom of your knickers) OVERGLOVES (for sabre fencers) MINIMUM two working weapons MINIMUM two working body cords (and head cords for sabre fencers) FENCING BAG (to carry equipment) WATER BOTTLE TOOL KIT (screwdriver for tip and pommel, spare screws, springs, allen wrench) BREAST PROTECTOR (for girls)

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AT NAC AND CHAMPIONSHIPS EVENTS, fencers must have their name printed on the back of lames (jackets in the case of epee fencers) or the back leg of your knickers. Some NAC events have vendors that provide this service but not all. The events that usually have vendors that do this are Junior Olmpics, Summer Nationals and some opens or youth events. This may vary depending on the size and location of the NAC.

What to Expect from an Equipment Check: Mask will be checked for holes, breaks in the mesh, tears in the bib, and bib must be sewn in and conform to regulation size, punch test, and sabre masks will be continuity checked Epees must pass weight and shim test. Foils must pass weight test. Sabres must pass flexibility test. Two body cords will be tested to make sure they do not exceed 1 ohm. Body cords should be unraveled before presentation to armorer for inspection (check throughout competition to ensure your armory inspection tag stays attached to your body cord. If your inspection tag becomes detached you will have to have it reinspected at armory Lames will be checked for continuity, tears and bad fasteners. Sabre fencers overgloves and head cords will also be checked for continuity. You need only get your equipment checked once at a tournament (unless tags become detached from body cords). Equipment is tested for safety and to make sure it is in proper working order. Your equipment will be stamped with a special stamp. Equipment purchased from vendors must also be checked by the armorers. You may be able to get your equipment checked before the day you fence. Check your confirmation materials for times. The director will check all equipment that was subject to inspection by the armorers for the specific tournament's identifying mark at the beginning of each pool or direct elimination bout.

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Registration has Closed - Now What Happens? When it says "close of registration at 9 AM", why aren't the kids fencing at 9:02 AM? A competition must be run to assure fairness and accuracy at every step. When registration is closed a beehive of activity is moving at the bout committee (BC). They must announce the names of those who did not check-in should the athlete be present. You may have heard the announcement, "Fencer XYZ please come to the BC table immediately or you will be scratched". On rare occasion a frantic parent runs up and says they didn't know they had to check in. (Error: READ THE CONFIRMATION MATERIAL). Then the initial seeding (minus the withdrawals) gets re-calculated and posted. Fencers have five minutes to check that it is accurate (YOU AND YOUR ATHLETE SHOULD DOUBLE CHECK IMMEDIATELY). If no problem is found then pools are created. This process takes several variables into consideration: seeding, club, and division affiliation. Every effort is made to minimize conflicts and at least two people check the accuracy of the pools before they are posted. (DOUBLE CHECK THE POOL SHEET IMMEDIATELY). Errors can be rectified most easily BEFORE the competition begins. BE PATIENT: you and your child want fencing to begin but ONLY if there are no problems which may cause fencing to be halted later due to a protest. Now that the pool sheets are posted and reviewed by the fencers the BC is still humming with strip and director assignments. The problems that occur at this stage may include: a machine/reel/strip is "down", a director has a "club/division conflict" and must be changed, all the fencers don't report to the strip. That is why strips are changed or a fencer's name is announced. (BEWARE THE DREAD BLACK CARD: SHOW UP AT A STRIP PROMPTLY AND DON'T STRAY BETWEEN BOUTS...AND BE SURE TO CAREFULLY CHECK YOUR POOL SHEET BEFORE YOU SIGN) Once all the pools are in the data is entered. There may be considerable differences in how quickly one pool gets finished before another depending on size of pool, quickness of the director, mechanical problems of one sort or another. BE PATIENT. The results are entered into the computer and the seeding into direct eliminations (DE) is posted. CAREFULLY CHECK the posted pool results to ensure that they are accurate to your recollection of your indicators (victories, touches scored versus touches received). If there is a problem the athlete must present himself IMMEDIATELY to the BC where the appropriate pool sheet will be inspected. After a few minutes have elapsed to allow fencers to have inspected the pool results a DE table is generated and posted. The strip numbers may be posted or announced. (BE ALERT TO ANY ANNOUNCEMENT).

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Directors are assigned, called to the BC and sent out to strips where the fencer should present himself. Upon completion of the bout the victor takes the signed score sheet to the BC, POLITELY WAITS TO HAND THE SLIP TO THE BC AND ANNOUNCES HIS NAME AND SCORE. This allows an extra check on accuracy. Also the athlete may be asked to take the next bout slip back to his strip. The athlete who tosses the slip at the BC runs the risk of a misplaced slip or inaccurately entered victor. (It is very hectic at the BC and while the athlete knows his own name the BC may not). This system of having the victor announce his name and score repeats itself all the way through until the gold medal is won. At that time, you and your young athlete will return home with a wonderful memory of a fine day of fencing!!! Other Things to Keep in Mind 1. Make sure your fencer drinks enough water - refill his/her water bottle whenever necessary. They should be drinking 6-8 oz. after each bout. 2. Repair equipment when necessary if you are able, or bring it to someone who can (team manager, knowledgeable parent, etc.). 3. If things are going badly, find your youngster's coach. Remember the coach is often trying to watch several students at once. 4. Use encouraging words and only between actions, not after the director says "fence". 5. If you are not sure who scored the touch, keep quiet or say something generic. 6. Reconnoiter the site and know where to find the bathrooms, water fountains, armory and trainer. 7. Be Positive!! Remember that no matter how well your fencer is competing, he/she is a terrific youngster. 8. Never offer your youngster rewards for competing well. This only adds pressure in an already tough situation. 9. Let your fencers have quiet time to prepare themselves without distractions. If you don't understand what is going on, ask someone who isn't fencing that day. 10. Don't aggravate the officials or other coaches, fencers or spectators. If you think there is a problem, quietly find the coach. 11. Avoid doing or saying anything that will put pressure on your fencer to win. Remember that we are here to have fun. 12. Let the coach be the coach. They give advice and point out problems. The coach is better experienced to handle problems that may arise on the strip. Your role is more important!!! You are there to give unconditional love and support. 13. Remember to remove all your equipment from the strip once you have finished fencing. This includes any confiscated weapons. 14. Do not leave any valuables lying around. Make sure all money is kept in a safe secure place and not in the fencing bag. 32

Travel Tips for National Tournaments SEND IN YOUR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP ENTRY FORM IMMEDIATELY AFTER QUALIFYING OR, IF AN AUTOMATIC QUALIFIER, IMMEDIATELY UPON RECEIPT Your division should have entry forms at the qualifying tournament, or if not, an entry form will be in the next USFA newsletter. If you qualify for more than one event and plan to fence all qualified events, submit one form with all events listed that you are eligible to compete in. Also, send a self-addressed stamped postcard with your entry form with your child's name and events entered. USFA will send this back to you with an official stamp. This is a backup confirmation in case you don't get an official one from USFA. RESERVE YOUR HOTEL ROOMS EARLY As soon as the venue and hotel become known, make your reservations. You can always cancel or make changes, but once the block of rooms is gone, it is very difficult to stay at the host hotel. If your child is traveling alone, check the hotel policy regarding minors checking in with no adult. Try to ensure they stay at the host hotel as travel to and from airport and venue will be much easier for him/her as most transportation is arranged around these venues. AIRFARES Continuously monitor airfares; many offer brief sales to certain destinations. For JOs, airfares often go down directly after New Year. However, this is a guideline only. Use your own judgement when purchasing airfares. As soon as a fare appears that is within your budget, BOOK IT! Call the Olympic Desk for travel help if necessary. The telephone number is on the back of your child's USFA membership card. ALWAYS TRAVEL THE DAY BEFORE AND THE DAY AFTER ALL YOUR EVENTS Do not try and arrive the day you fence or leave the last day you fence. It is very difficult to anticipate the end time of a tournament so plan your departure for the day after your last event. Don't add stress to the fencer by worrying throughout an event if you will catch your plane. JOIN AIRLINE AND HOTEL FREQUENT FLYER/STAY PLANS If you are not already a member of frequent flyer and hotel stay programs, JOIN. These miles and points add up and can eventually get you a free ticket and/or hotel stay. It’s worth the investment and most are free to join. CARRY ON ALL EQUIPMENT THAT YOU WEAR

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What You Need for a Tournament Foil, Epee and/or Sabre (at least 2 working weapons) Fencing pants or knickers Fencing Jacket Under Arm Protector Lame (for foil) Chest Protector (women only) Long fencing socks Fencing shoes (can be any court shoes with a flat sole; not running shoes) Mask Glove At least 2 working body cords USFA card Confirmation letter

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Qualifying Paths for Junior Olympics This information is available on the USFA website – go to www.usfencing.org – on the left, click o n “Athletes & Coaches” and then click o n “F o rm s and Documents” and then click o n “U S F A Athletes Handbook (2005-2006 Edition)”. The Athletes Handbook gives the qualifying paths for J.O. Championship Tournaments.

Qualifying Paths for Summer Nationals This information is available on the USFA website – go to www.usfencing.org – on the left, click o n “Athletes and Coaches” and then click o n “Forms and Documents” and then click o n “U SFA Athletes Handbook (2005-2006 E ditio n)”. The Athletes Handbook give the specific requirements for qualifying for particular events for Summer Nationals.

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Team Jackets If you would like to order a Birmingham Fencing Club Team jacket, the cost is $106.50 for sizes adult XS to XL. Prices differ slightly for child sizes and larger adult sizes. To place an order, email [email protected] and tell Niki that you want to order a Birmingham Fencing Club jacket, with the logo on the back and your name on the front, and give her the size and the name to be embroidered on the front of the jacket. Give her your home address for shipping, and arrange to call her or have her call you for your credit card number. Plan for a 5 week turnaround. For more information, visit the website at www.jammin.com Club team jackets are not required, but many fencers find that they want to purchase a team jacket when they begin competing at the national level.

Club and Division Patches After you purchase your equipment, and before you begin competing in tournaments at the national level, you will want to purchase a Birmingham Fencing Club patch and an Alabama Division patch for your fencing jacket. The patches are available at the Club at a cost of $3 each. The patches should be sewn on the non-weapon arm between the shoulder and the elbow. (National Team patches are handled as noted above)

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Fencing Summer Camps The BFC provides beginning, intermediate and advanced level camps during the summer. Advanced level camps are generally held prior to the Summer National Championships in early July. Details are generally provided several months prior to the start of the camps. These camps involve intensive training, eight hours each day, from eight to ten days in length. Guest coaches are often added to the coaching staff during these camps. Fencers from other clubs often attend these camps as well. It is an excellent opportunity to gain in-depth experience and training.

Referee Training The BFC periodically provides training for fencers interested in becoming certified referees. We encourage our fencers to do this, since an understanding of the rules of fencing is very beneficial to competitive fencers. This training program has been very successful in the past, and the BFC leads the way in the Southeast in training new certified referees. The list of current certified referees is posted on the Club bulletin board. The Club will periodically pay a certified Fencing Officials Committee (part of the USFA) trainer/examiner to present seminars, and conduct testing, so that members of the Club can obtain an FOC rating in one or more weapons. A fee will generally be paid by members attending this seminar. Subsequent to passing the written test, members can increase their FOC rating through additional experience, primarily during national tournaments.

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Parental Involvement The Birmingham Fencing Club is a non-profit corporation. Like many other sports organizations, parents play an important role in the organization of various class activities. We ask that one parent from every family volunteer for at least one tournament or other Club activities during the year. A list is posted on the Club bulletin board. Parents are welcome to observe class. Parents and students are also welcome to visit any Birmingham Fencing Club class or activity. We welcome your questions and your interest in the sport of fencing. The following is a partial list of ways in which parents may volunteer to help the Club: Food Table for a Tournament - arrange to have food at tournament, arrange to have the necessary tables, serving dishes, knives, etc. for food preparation, determine whether to charge for food and pricing, if any, etc. Acting as a timer or scorekeeper during a tournament Learning to operating the tournament computer scoring program Coordinate with publicity chairman to prepare and distribute club posters, sporting goods store flyers, press releases, email notices, mailings, etc., and then arrange for publication of results by newspaper, email to participants, posting on website, write an article about the tournament for the club newsletter, etc. Armorer – obtain training from Coach Wang in order to set up equipment testing table for tournaments and perform equipment testing, help fencers with equipment problems during the tournament, e.g., stretch springs so weapons will pass weapon check on strip, etc. T-shirts - select a design, prepare a budget, arrange to have T-shirts printed, pick up Tshirts and have them at the tournament, arrange for T-shirt sales at the tournament, etc. Photography - take pictures at the tournament of all medal ceremonies and appropriate candid shots, post pictures at the club after the tournament, arrange for posting on website, archive for club scrapbook, etc. Demonstrations - schedule and staff fencing demonstrations at various schools, clubs, etc. Laundry - wash and dry club jackets and plastrons on a regular schedule

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Annual Pictures Each year, usually in October, the Club has a photographer come take a group picture of all of the Club members on a Saturday during Club practice. The photographer is also available to take pictures of individual fencers in their gear for any fencer who is interested. The pictures are offered in packages at a set price. For the last 2 years, the pictures have been made by Time Framers Photography, Inc., 808 Chestnut Street, Birmingham, Alabama 35216, telephone 822-4279. Last year, the prices were as follows: 8x10 Group Picture and 5x7 Individual Picture - $18.00 Additional 2 5x7 Individual Pictures - $10.00 Additional 8 wallet size Individual Pictures - $10.00 Individual photos were only packaged with a group photo.

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Glossary of Fencing Terms Absence of blade: when the blades are not touching; the opposite of engagement. Advance: a movement forward by step, cross, or balestra. Attack: the initial offensive action made by extending the sword arm and continuously threatening the valid target of the opponent. Balestra: forward hop or jump, typically followed by an attack such as a lunge or fleche. Beat: an attempt to knock the opponent's blade aside or out of line by using one's foible or middle against the opponent foible. Bind: an action in which the opponent's blade is forced into the diagonally opposite line. Black Card: used to indicate the most serious offenses in a fencing competition. The offending fencer is usually expelled from the event or tournament. Bout: an assault at which the score is kept. Broken time: a sudden change in the tempo of one fencer's actions, used to fool the opponent into responding at the wrong time. Compound: an action executed in two or more movements; an attack or riposte incorporating one or more feints. Counter-attack: an offensive action made against the right-of-way, or in response to the opponent's attack. Corps-a-corps: literally, “bo dy-to-bo dy”, physical co ntact betw een the tw o fencers during a bout. Crossover: an advance or retreat by crossing one leg over the other. Cut: an attack made with a chopping motion of the blade, normally landing with the edge. Direct Attack: a simple attack or riposte that finishes in the same line in which it was formed, with no feints out of that line. Disengage: a circular movement of the blade that deceives the opponent's parry, removes the blades from engagement, or changes the line of engagement. Double: in epee, two attacks that arrive within 40-50 ms of each other. En Garde: also On Guard; a fencing position; the stance that fencers assume when preparing to fence. False: an action that is intended to fail, but draw a predicted reaction from the opponent. Feint: an attack into one line with the intention of switching to another line before the attack is completed. FIE: Federation International d'Escrime, the world governing body of fencing. Fleche: literally "arrow"; an attack in which the aggressor leaps off his leading foot, attempts to make the hit, and then passes the opponent at a run. Flick: a cut-like action that lands with the point often involving some whip of the foible of the blade to 'throw" the point around a block or other obstruction. French Grip: a traditional hilt with a slightly curved grip and a large pommel. Guard: the metal cup or bow that protects the hand from being hit. Also, the defensive position assumed when not attacking. Invitation: a line that is intentionally left open to encourage the opponent to attack. Lame': a metallic vest/jacket used to detect valid touches in foil and sabre. 40

Line: the main direction of an attack (e.g. high/low, inside/outside), often equated to the parry that must be made to deflect the attack; also, point in line. Lunge: an attack made by extending the rear leg and landing on the bent front leg. Opposition: holding the opponent s blade in a non-threatening line; a time-hit; any attack or counter-attack with opposition. Parry: a block of the attack, made with the forte of one's own blade Passe': an attack that passes the target without hitting; as a cross-step (see cross) Piste: the linear strip on which a fencing bout is fought; approximately 2 meters wide and 14 meters long. Pistol Grip: a modern orthopedic grip, shaped vaguely like a small pistol; varieties are known by names such as Belgian, German, Russian and Visconti (the grip our coaches prefer). Plastron: a partial jacket worn for extra protection; typically a half-jacket worn under the main jacket on the weapon arm side of the body. Point: a valid touch; the tip of the sword; the mechanical assembly that makes up the point of an electric weapon; an attack made with the point (i.e. a thrust). Point in Line: also line; an extended arm and blade that threatens the opponent. Preparation: a non-threatening action intended to create the opening for an attack; the initial phase of an attack, before right-of-way is established. Presentation: offering one's blade for engagement by the opponent. Press: an attempt to push the opponent's blade aside or out of line; depending on the opponent's response, the press is followed by a direct or indirect attack. Priority: in sabre, the now-superceded rules that decide which fencer will be awarded the touch in the event that they both attack simultaneously; also used synonymously with right-of-way. Red Card: used to indicate repeated minor rule infractions or a major rule infraction by one of the fencers; results in a point being given to the other fencer. Referee: also director, president; the mediator of the fencing bout. Remise: immediate replacement of an attack that missed or was parried without withdrawing the arm. Retreat: step back; opposite of advance. Right-of-Way: rules for awarding the point in the event of a double touch in foil or sabre. Riposte: an offensive action made immediately after a parry of the opponent's attack. Second Intention: a false action used to draw a response from the opponent, which will open the opportunity for the intended action that follows, typically a counter-riposte. Simple Attack: attack executed in one movement; an attack or riposte that involves no feints. Simultaneous: in foil and sabre two attacks for which the right-of-way is too close to determine. Stop Hit: a counter-attack that hits; also a counter-attack whose touch is valid by virtue of its timing. Thrust: an attack made by moving the sword parallel to its length and landing with the point. Yellow Card: also advertisement, warning; used to indicate a minor rule infraction by one of the fencers.

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