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! 3

Contact Information 4

Birmingham Fencing Club Philosophy 5

Coaching Staff 6

What is a Typical Class Like? 7

Safety Rules 8

The Weapons 9

Competition Rules 10

Code of Conduct 12

United States Fencing Association 13

Fencing Programs & Fees 16

Club Membership and USFA Membership Requirement 19

BFC National Team 20

Equipment Purchases 21

Competition in Tournaments 24

P o licy fo r P aym ent o f C o ach’s T ravel E xp enses to T o urnam ents 26

Projected Costs for Attendance at Tournaments 27

General Guide for Parents Attending Tournaments and What to Expect 28

at a NAC or National Championship Tournament

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Qualifying Paths for Junior Olympics & Summer Nationals 35

Team Jackets & Patches 36

Fencing Summer Camps 37

Referee Training 37

Parental Involvement 38

Annual Pictures 39

Glossary of Fencing Terms 40

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 arias@fencingclub.org

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
arias@fencingclub.org
Home – 824-6635
Cell – 515-3902

Coach Wang and Coach Sun

BFC coaches
jing35216@charter.net
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.

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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-of-
way 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, Under-
15, 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.

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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.

15
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.
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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.

19
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

20
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.

21
 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
<less 10% discount> <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.

23
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.

24
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.

25
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.

26
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

27
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)

28
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)

29
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.

30
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).

31
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 mis-
placed 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

33
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, e-
mail niki@jammin.com 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 T-
shirts 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.
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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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