Programs - Sport Clubs - Current Clubs - Blade Society
Check out
the fencing video here (20 Mb)
The Blade Society teaches both sport fencing and
rapier combat (basic and intermediate levels). The club promotes
interest in the use and history of blade weapons while providing a
fun and safe environment for the UMaine community. No experience
is necessary and equipment is available through the club.
The Blade Society is a Recreational Sports Club
of The University of Maine that teaches sport fencing, rapier
combat, and other forms of bladed combat recreation. We are a free
club open to all students, faculty and staff. The Blade Society is
geared towards the instruction in beginning and intermediate
technique, yet anyone interested in advanced styles and techniques
is definitely welcome. No experience or experience or equipment is
needed by the beginning student. The only requisite is a
willingness to learn and participate in Blade Society activities.
Unfortunately we cannot have everyone fencing the first practice
that they come to. Learning how to fight safely can take time, but
the rewards that come from the experience are well worth it.
Please stop by; see what we do, and try it out.
Purpose
We want to expose students to the basics of fencing and rapier
combat. The basics take about a semester. At that time students
are encouraged to start developing their own style, and take
initiative in asking for further instruction. Above all else, we
want to make sure that as a member of the Blade Society, you are
having fun while learning.
Membership Requirements
Any student, faculty, or staff of UMAINE may join the Blade
Society, provided they have health insurance.
Coaches
The Blade Society has the teaching expertise of advanced members,
who take a strong approach in teaching other students, as well as
experienced coaches. Jim and Lisa Tyson are our current coaches
with the Blade Society.
Equipment
The Blade Society owns all the major equipment that a fencing or
rapier combat student may need. If a student decides to stick with
the club and advance into intermediate techniques, we recommend
that they consider purchasing their own equipment. However, this
is by no means a requirement of the club, and not owning equipment
should never interfere with club membership. For basic clothing
students must have all skin covered when fencing. The fencing
mask, gloves and jacket that the club provides cover the upper
body. A good T-shirt should be worn underneath. A pair of shoes
with good traction and ankle support are recommended. No open top
shoes or sandals. Male students are required to wear a cup once
they start fencing, and it is highly recommended that women
purchase a female athletic cup as well as breast protectors, but
it is not required.
More Information
Schedule
Blade Society should begin having meetings in a couple of weeks
this fall. In the past, we have met either Tuesday or Wednesday
and Friday nights, usually at around 6:30. As soon as we have
secured practice space, the days and times will be posted here,
and the calendar will be updated. We also participate in on campus
events, such as the New Student Organization Fair at the start of
the year, and the Friends and Family Weekend Student Organization
Fair.
Weapons
Forms and Other Useful Information
Currently the Blade Society focuses on fencing and rapier combat
as its main styles of combat recreation. Assuming we have members
with training in other areas who have teaching capabilities, we
may also offer other types of recreational bladed combat. The
rules and armor requirements used in the Blade Society are
borrowed from an international non-profit organization known as
the SCA- Society for Creative Anachronism. The SCA reproduces
medieval and renaissance times through clothing, food, combat, and
other activities. There has been rapier combat for more than 20
years in the SCA with no serious injuries.
Upcoming Events
Blade Society participates in both SCA and USFA events.
This page provides links to both sites for more
information.
Photographs
Pictures of past and present fencers
History of Fencing
Provides a brief historical overview of fencing, and some
recommended links and reading material, for those interested in
learning more about the historical aspects of fencing
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