I don't know how to fence, can I still join the club?

Of course you can join! The club has a number of skilled fencers that are more than willing to teach you how to fence from the ground up. In fact, many of these skilled fencers started out in the club and just like you, knew little to nothing about fencing before starting with us. We all were in the same boat once so don't be shy about asking questions and asking for help!

What do I need to start fencing?

We strongly recommend wearing sneakers and sweatpants or track pants for fencing. This makes fencing easier and more comfortable for you. We prefer that you do not wear shorts or jeans; seeing as jeans prevent fluid movement and shorts can leave your legs open to getting hit accidently by the blades. Other fencing equipment and uniforms are provided by the club, but if you don't like to share we strongly recommend purchasing your own fencing uniform and equipment. For further details about equipment talk to an officer for some advice!

I have several obligations aside from school work, and can't make it to all the practices. Is this going to be an issue?

No problem there, we're a club, not a varsity sport. We're not going to expect us to be your #1 priority, so, come when you can even if that means showing up for the first part or the last part of a practice.

Does it hurt?

No. We don't fence with real swords. We like our fencers to come back, so we don't actually fence to the death like you see in movies. Our weaponry is designed to be safe for people to use on each other without hurting each other. Of course, you may walk away with small bruises in the beginning, but all of our more serious injuries have stemmed from people pulling muscles or twisting ankles. So, just like with any sport, as long as you are careful to strech properly before a night of hard work, you shouldn't have any problems!

Is it safe?

Yes. Fencing is one of the safest sports you will find. Many studies have been done to develop equipment that protects the fencer. Masks are worn to protect the face and neck, jackets to protect your arms and torso, underarm guards for added protection, and a glove to protect your hand. These are the absolute minimum and are provided by the club, however knickers are added protection necessary for competition that the club does not have in ample supply. 

Fencing, however, can be very dangerous if you aren't being smart about wearing your equipment, so we always ask that our members are careful not to point the weaponry at people not wearing masks or jackets.

Where and when do you meet?

Refer to the training schedule on our website.

It's after midterms, can I still join?

Of course! Just drop in. Our more experienced fencers are always willing to teach you and bring you up to speed with everyone else!

I'm not sure fencing is for me, but I'd really love to check it out and give it a try. What should I do?

We realize that fencing is a sport you need to feel passionate about in order to do well and stick with it. The club's officers have set a deadline for when dues need to be in. Until then, you are welcome to fence with us for free to decide if this is really for you. If you'd rather just watch first, that is always an option too. We don't mind visitors. If it's after midterms, we will still allow you the same courtesy of trying it out for about two weeks before making the commitment to pay.