SAFETY

• The fencer or guardian is responsible for ensuring that the fencer is properly equipped with and properly using the appropriate uniform, weapon, and equipment, and ensuring all equipment is in suitable condition and adhering to all specifications per USA Fencing rules.

• No fencing without a mask, glove, jacket, and plastron (underarm protector).

• Do not use improper or defective equipment, nor use equipment in an inappropriate manner.

• Weapons must be carried with the point down.

• Do not offer a weapon to a visitor without having asked an instructor’s permission.

• Beginner fencers may not freely fence until that privilege is granted by an instructor.

• If an opponent is becoming angry, stop fencing immediately.

• Warm-up and stretching are required before a lesson, practicing, or fencing.

• Safety is everyone’s responsibility.  Report any unsafe condition or activity to staff.

• Report any illness, injury, or medications to an instructor before practice or lesson.

• Do not participate in fencing activities while taking medications that cause dizziness, drowsiness, or disorientation.

COURTESY AND GENERAL RULES

• If you are late to class, join the class with the least amount of disruption.  Fencers may be denied participation in a class if they are more than 15 minutes late.

• If you cannot attend a scheduled lesson, it is your responsibility to inform the coach.

• Pay full attention during instruction, drills, and bouts; no talking or antics.  Raise your hand if you have a question.

• No free fencing during a class.

• Do not use any fencing equipment belonging to others without permission.

• No cursing, swearing, obscene or indiscrete language.

• Do not mock, display disapproval of, or disturb anyone.

• Never argue with a referee, opponent, coach or instructor.

• When entering the salle, greet the instructors and those present.

• Before leaving, return all club equipment to its proper place.

• Respect and protect the club.  Do not damage or use your blade to hit the walls, floors or strips.

• Respect club equipment as your own property.

• Do not throw equipment under any circumstance.

• Disrespect from parents or fencers to coaches or staff will not be tolerated.

• Use of electronic devices are prohibited during club activities unless in direct use for a specific fencing or club management activity.

SPORTSMANSHIP

• Respect your opponent and treat them as you would like to be treated.

• When fencing, acknowledge each touch received.

• Do not claim a touch if your opponent denies it.

• No overly aggressive fencing.

• When there is a significant skill level difference, the more experienced fencer should adjust their fencing to encourage less experienced fencers.

• Respect referees, coaches, instructors, and staff.  Do not argue with their judgements.

• Be humble in your victories; accept losses with dignity.

ETIQUETTE

• Before fencing or a lesson, salute your opponent or coach, the referee, and spectators (if present).

• After fencing or a lesson, shake hands with your opponent or coach using your non-gloved hand.

• Salute your opponent during a bout if you reach la belle (tied with one touch left).

• Do not give advice to a fencer without an instructor’s permission.

• When holding a weapon, do not allow the tip to touch the ground.