What is fencing?
Fencing is a sport with its history in the nobility, duelling culture and militaries of Europe. As duelling and legalities progressed, the three different weapons and rulesets of foil, sabre, and épée evolved, descended from various duelling, court and practice weapons from the times. Now it is a wonderful sport that is practiced and enjoyed by many around the world.
Is fencing safe?
Fencing as a sport is among one of the safest sports in the world. With the proper technique and equipment, the likelihood of injury is practically non-existent.
What blade does the club primarily train with?
Our club primarily trains with the épée and on occasion we also hold a month of sabre training. We are open to fencers of any weapon joining the club and have some equipment for all weapons, however we have limited coaching available for foil and sabre.
What equipment is provided?
We provide majority of equipment, including blades, plastrons, jackets, gloves, masks, etc. We do not provide breeches, so please wear long pants. Members planning on competing regularly are encouraged to purchase their own equipment.
What do I need to bring to practice?
Long pants (no shorts) and a comfortable shirt, sneakers, water, and anything else you might want or need for exercise.
What are your fees?
We pride ourselves on being one of the cheaper clubs to join at Flinders University with a year membership only costing $80 (plus the Fencing SA capitation fee).
If you are still unsure about joining us please come in during our free beginners course (generally held week 2-5 of each university semester) and try some sessions, you are not expected to buy a membership until after the course.
What’s this HEMA thing you guys have talked about?
HEMA is an acronym for Historical European Martial Arts. HEMA is a subgroup of our club, meeting on Saturdays and often joining our Tuesday practice sessions. Our HEMA group focuses on the use and practice of the Scottish broadsword, a basket hilted single blade and regularly participates in competitions and demonstrations. The membership fee is shared across both HEMA and fencing, so you're more than welcome to try out both.
What HEMA equipment is provided?
Due to the cost and difficulty in purchasing and storing sufficient quantities of HEMA uniforms, there are only limited amounts of jackets and gloves. All HEMA members are strongly encouraged to buy and bring their own set of HEMA gear. Training weapons are provided.
