It's here! - 19 Dec 12

The last equipment order of 2012 is here! You can pick up your stuff at IWFC tonight between 7:00 and 9:00 or tomorrow night (Thursday) between 6:00 and 9:00.

Equipment orders due tonight 13 Dec 12

Don't forget to bring your equipment orders to practice tonight! (You can also email it if you won't be there.) Orders and payments are due to me by 10 p.m. tonight and the equipment should be in hand before next Wednesday.

Fencing tees, stickers, etc. including IWFC and PFC stuff - 12 Dec 12

Fencers always need more t-shirts and what could be better than fencing-themed shirts for your favorite Stabby McGhee? Short sleeves, long sleeves, hoodies, ringers -- all sorts of styles are available! See a design you like but can't find it on the shirt you want? Tell me and I'll take care of it. Stickers, mugs, travel cups, and more are also available! Thanks to Tristan doing exactly that, the IWFC and PFC designs are now available on lots more stuff! (None of that stuff was available when the store was first started several years ago so thanks for the nudge!)

Best of all, Cafe Press is running daily specials through the holidays. Today is their 12/12/12 sale which means you can use codes 12TEE, 12MUG, and 12CASE to pay just $12 for white/light tees, 11 oz. mugs, and smartphone cases respectively. (This code's good through 11:59 p.m. Pacific time.) If you're on Facebook, follow Pointed Comments as I try to post codes as soon as they come through my email. New designs will be posted as they're added, too!

There's still time to order! - 11 Dec 12

Still looking for gift ideas for your fencer? You've still got time to get in on the last equipment order of the year! So how about:

• A new equipment bag or blade cover
• An underarm protector (plastron)
• Their own set of electric equipment
• A new foil mask (Remember, the bib became target area as of 8/1/12 - it's not being enforced at club yet but why wait until the last minute?)
• A bib overlay to convert the bib on the old mask
• A foil test/repair kit
• A fencing journal - Handy for recording results and making notes between bouts at tournaments
• 2013 fencing calendar
• Check out Absolute's website for more great gift ideas!

Orders and payment are due to me by 10 p.m. Thursday, December 13. They can be turned in at any practice or you can send me your order via email and pay online.

Schedule notes - 7 Dec 12

'Tis the season for all sorts of crazy things to be happening with the calendar!

Poquoson beginner class: As you know, Sandy put us back by one class. But I had my dates crossed up last week when I said we'd still be done by the holidays. Our last class will actually be on January 13. After that you'll be ready for club practices!

All Poquoson fencers: We'll have fencing December 9 and 16, then no fencing December 23 or 30. Nor will we have fencing on January 6 due to the Hangover Classic in Richmond. Club practices will resume on January 13.

IWFC fencers: We're on the regular schedule through December 20. No fencing December 21 through January 1. The regular schedule will resume January 2.

Tournaments:

• Virginia Division Junior Olympic Qualifiers, Manassas - December 15-16
• Nightmare Before Christmas, Charlottesville - Dec 22-23 (Note: I am not available for coaching at this one.)
• Hangover Classic - Richmond - January 5-6 This is one of Virginia's major events with top fencers from all over coming to compete. It's a fantastic tournament to watch, too! (Note: While I will be there all day Sunday, my Saturday schedule conflict is still up in the air...)

Classes: The next beginner class at IWFC will start on Monday, January 7. Email to register. The class fee is $60 and equipment can be either rented ($30 per month plus $10 glove purchase) or purchased (starting at around $120).

Private lessons: Because no classes are running this month, those evening time slots are available for private lessons. Want some extra time to work on something? Let me know what day and time you're interested in and we'll go from there. Lessons are also available during the day!

Socks and equipment - 5 Dec 12

A new batch of club socks has just arrived! These comfy, thickly-padded, never-fall-down socks are black with either IWFC or PFC down the side in grey lettering. PFC socks are available in youth, intermediate, and adult sizes and IWFC socks are in intermediate and adult, $15 for all sizes. You can get them at any class or practice - email me if you'd like to have a pair set aside or if you want to make sneaky arrangements.

According to UPS, last week's equipment order should arrive at my house tonight. Of course the question is will it make it here before I leave for the salle or not. So you might be able to pick up your new stuff tonight but you'll definitely be able to pick it up tomorrow night.

Missed last week's order but still want to order something for the holidays or for the Hangover Classic tournament in January? A second December order will be sent in next Thursday, December 13, so you've got plenty of time to turn in your order and payment. Items in this order should be in hand by the following Wednesday, December 20.

Jacket left at PFC tonight?

A black jacket was on the floor tonight after everyone left. I don't recall if it was already there when I arrived or not so I left it at the school's front desk. If it's yours, call Poquoson Primary School to claim it.

Equipment, socks, and other exciting stuff - 29 Nov 12

Don't forget, equipment orders (including payment) are due tonight by 10:00. If you miss this order, no worries, I'll be doing another one in two weeks so you'll have another chance to get equipment in time for the holidays.

Know what else makes for cool gifts? Club swag! For both clubs I've got: tees (although only a couple of IWFC ones left), club patches, key chains, and water bottles. The water bottles are awesome, by the way. Stainless steel so they're light but tough. These will survive being tossed in an equipment bag without being cracked! I also have socks for PFC and have more IWFC socks on the way. I'll let you know as soon as they come in.

And you can also get fencing (and non-fencing but still cool) shirts, stickers, mugs, and more at Pointed Comments. Cafe Press puts out new discount codes all the time, especially this time of year, so I'll post them as I get them on Pointed Comments' Facebook page.

Equipment orders, holiday shopping - 26 Nov 12

Equipment orders are due to me by 10:00 p.m. this Thursday, November 29. As usual, the vendor is Absolute, orders can be turned in via email or at club, and payment is due when you turn in your order. Payment can be made in person or online. Equipment should be in by the following Thursday, December 6.

Because of the holidays, I'll be doing a second order in two weeks. So if you miss this order, no worries. Orders for the second go 'round are due on Thursday, December 13, and equipment should be available for pickup by Thursday, December 20.

If your order needs to be super secret, just let me know and we'll work out the sneaky details together! A great thing about having a fencer on your gift list is we're super easy to shop for! What do we want? More gear! If you're looking for gift ideas for your fencer, let me know and I'll run some suggestions by you based on your fencer, what they already have, and what they've expressed an interest in (if they've done so).

I'm also working on an order of club socks, the black ones with IWFC or PFC down the sides in grey. I'll put the word out as soon as those are in.

You can get fencing themed -- including club-related -- t-shirts, sweatshirts, sticker, mugs, etc. at Pointed Comments. There are also things for the sarcastic type, the silly person, and more. And yes, I can do custom items. Just let me know what you want and I'll do my best to get it added for you!

Thanksgiving wrap-up - 26 Nov 12

One last note about November fencing and then it's on to December!

The weekend before Thanksgiving was the Thanksgiving Throwdown in Richmond. Bryce competed both days, fencing in his second and third tournaments ever, and ran the full gamut of experiences between the two events. Saturday's E and under foil had pools of seven so he got to fence a solid variety of people. This stood him in good stead for Sunday's unrated event in which he had his first pool and DE wins. Great job, Bryce!

He wasn't the only competitor on Sunday. Scott and Rhiannon fenced in the C and under foil and Rhiannon's day ended with a fantastic DE -- smart, balanced fencing is always exciting to see! Scott finished in 6th and added a rubber turduck to our award shelf at IWFC. Also fencing on Sunday were Stephen and Josh F. in the C and under epee. Both were solid in the pools and although I didn't get to see any of their DE matches, I'm happy to report that Stephen not only tied for third, he also earned his D rating. Congrats!

Full results for the Thanksgiving Throwdown can be seen here.

Up next: Virginia Division Junior Olympic qualifiers, Dec. 15-16 in Manassas, and the Nightmare Before Christmas, Dec. 22-23 in Charlottesville. (Note: I will not be available for the Nightmare.)

Thanksgiving schedule notes - 18 Nov 12

Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is upon is! So we'll have practice Monday night at IWFC as usual but then no fencing (class, practice, or private lessons) at either location until the following Monday. Happy Thanksgiving!

NAC video and photos - 16 Nov 12

I almost forgot! There are some top-notch videos from the NAC here. And photos I shot on Sunday can be seen here. Got pictures or video of your own you'd like to share? Let me know!

Thanksgiving Throwdown, last weekend's NAC - 16 Nov 12

A quick reminder to those thinking about entering this weekend's Thanksgiving Throwdown in Richmond: pre-register! It saves you $5 on the entry fee and makes it easier for RFC to run things. While there is just one event each for senior (13+) epee and saber, there are THREE separate senior foil events! Visit the above link to see which events are when. I'll be there both days with the usual caveat that I'll need to leave mid-afternoon on Sunday so I can be back in Poquoson in time for class.

A lot of you went out to check the action at last weekend's NAC in Virginia Beach and I've loved hearing what you thought about it! Scott competed in the Div I men's epee and did well enough in pools to make the cut into DEs. (Only the top 75% were promoted to DEs, the remaining 25% were eliminated at the end of pools). Alas, his first DE match was also his last but the guy who took him out continued onward, only being eliminated in the quarter-finals. So hey, if you're going to get knocked out, gotta like getting knocked out by a top-8 finisher! He also had the fun of fencing the eventual tournament winner in his pool so all in all, it was a pretty good day of fencing! Full Div I men's epee results are here and results for all of the NAC events are here.

Tournaments past, almost present, and future - 7 Nov 12

Congrats to our fencers who entered last weekend's Halloween Open at William and Mary! Scott took second in foil and 11th in the surprisingly large saber event. We also had two first-timers, Bobby and Bryce, fencing on Saturday and I couldn't be more proud of either of them. Every bout was fenced better than the one before it and Bobby even won his first DE. (And thank you, Scott, for strip coaching when I needed to be in two places at once.) I think we'll be seeing more of these two at future tournaments! Full Halloween Open results can be seen here. And I'm in the process of uploading a few videos from the weekend to our YouTube channel. Go take a look!

This weekend there's a BIG tournament, the 2012 November North American Cup (NAC) at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. How big? Olympians - past, present, and future - will be competing, including but not limited to Tim Morehouse, Daryl Homer, Miles Chamley-Wilson, Alexander Massialis, Lee Kiefer, and Kelley Hurley. Plus you'll see familiar faces too, including Scott! You'll also be able to see, touch, try on, and try out all sorts of fencing gear. Vendors from all over the country will be there with loads of stuff just begging to go home with you. So here's your chance to pick up all sorts of goodies! (Early holiday shopping, anyone?) Best of all, admission is free so grab your camera and go watch some of the best fencing in the country! The event schedule is here (page 2 - they aim for starting events 30-60 minutes after close of check-in).

Want to earn some good fencing karma this weekend? USA Fencing is looking for volunteers to help at the NAC. They need people for things like check-in, awards, lost and found, and runners (carrying messages and such). If you can spend a morning or an afternoon helping, sign up here. I'll also give half-off of November's dues for any volunteers!

Up next, the Thanksgiving Throwdown in Richmond on November 17 and 18. Visit the link to pre-register (saves you $5!) and for times et al.

Yoiks! Tournament this weekend! - 1 Nov 12

What with the storm and sundry, it completely slipped my mind that the Halloween Open is this weekend in Williamsburg! As usual, foil and saber are on Saturday and epee is on Sunday. You've still got time to preregister! (Don't forget about the foil bib requirement if you haven't already taken care of it. I still have a few covers available at the salle if you need one.) And this is a great tournament to come out and watch, too! Non-fencers get in for free so why not come on out and cheer on your clubmates.

While I'm at it, last weekend was the Veterans Day tournament in Fredericksburg. (I know, the Veterans Day tournament was in October and the Halloween tournament is in November -- no wonder I'm confused!) David's day didn't work out quite as planned but former Wight Knight and still occasional visitor Josh F. had a solid day, finishing third and earning his C. Congratulations!

Game on! - 30 Oct 12

Just checked the salle and everything looks good!  And VDOT has reopened 17  so we're back to our normal schedule as of tonight.  See you there!

Monday fencing cancelled - 28 Oct 12

Not that I'm one for following trends but with all the area closures tomorrow and with the potential for things to change for the worse, I'm erring on the side of caution and am cancelling all lessons, classes, and practice at IWFC for Monday night. Simply put, better safe than sorry!

Important! Schedule notes - 26 Oct 12

Sunday, October 28: No Poquoson fencing! PPR is canceling all activities for Sunday so that means no class and no club practice this weekend. We'll add a day to the end of the class schedule to make up for it.

Monday and Tuesday, October 29 and 30: IWFC is on as scheduled for now. If the weather forces a change, I'll post a note here.

Wednesday, October 31: No IWFC fencing! Happy Halloween!

Thursday, November 1, onward: Our normal schedule is anticipated but as always, updates will be posted here if that changes.

Poquoson schedule reminder - 19 Oct 12

Hey Poquoson fencers! Don't forget, there is no fencing this Sunday, October 21 -- class or practice -- due to the annual Poquoson Seafood Festival. Go have a great time and I'll see you on the 28th!

Wow! - 7 Oct 12

Wow! I think Poquoson set a new attendance record tonight -- we definitely had a full house! And it was a great mix of new fencers, experienced fencers, fencers we haven't seen in a while, and ones who are there nearly every weekend. A couple of pics are on PFC's Facebook and will be on PFC's website as soon as I get a chance.

All right, IWFC, the ball's in your court now. The summer heat seems to have broken so come on out and play! Going to let PFC show you up?

Reposting yesterday's notes - 4 Oct 12

Okay, something went goofy with yesterday's updates -- they posted to some places just fine but never showed up in others. So just to be paranoid, here they are again but with one modification: equipment orders will be taken through 10 p.m. tonight just in case someone needed yesterday's reminder but didn't see it.


Classes still open - 3 Oct 12

Class registrations are still open for beginner classes at both locations as well as for the saber class in Carrollton. Did you miss the Poquoson start date of September 30? No worries, new fencers will be accepted through this Sunday, October 7. Contact Poquoson Parks and Rec to register. Want to take the class in Carrollton? New fencers will be accepted through Friday, October 5. Email to register. See previous entries for class details.

All practices are back on their regular schedule so grab your gear and come on out! The more, the noisie- I mean merrier!



Equipment order - 3 Oct 12

October equipment orders are due to me either via email or at practice by 10 p.m. tonight Thursday, October 4. Equipment should be in Tuesday Wednesday.

Equipment order - 3 Oct 12

October equipment orders are due to me either via email or at practice by 10 p.m. tonight. Equipment should be in Tuesday.

Classes still open - 3 Oct 12

Class registrations are still open for beginner classes at both locations as well as for the saber class in Carrollton. Did you miss the Poquoson start date of September 30? No worries, new fencers will be accepted through this Sunday, October 7. Contact Poquoson Parks and Rec to register. Want to take the class in Carrollton? New fencers will be accepted through Friday, October 5. Email to register. See previous entries for class details.

All practices are back on their regular schedule so grab your gear and come on out! The more, the noisie- I mean merrier!

Order's in, registration's open! - 12 Sep 12

If you had anything in this month's equipment order, you can pick it up at IWFC either tonight or tomorrow night during the regular practice sessions. Otherwise you can pick it up on or after the 30th.

The next equipment order will go in on Wednesday, October 3.

Poquoson Parks and Rec is ready to take registrations for the next set of classes! Classes begin on Sunday, September 30. Click here for the PPR website. If you have questions about which class you should take or such, just ask!

And don't forget about the upcoming IWFC classes, which start the first week of October. The beginner class will start on Monday, October 1 and the intermediate/saber class will start on Tuesday, October 2. Email coach@iwfc.net to register.

September dates, upcoming classes - 6 Sep 12

With the holiday and all, I'm pushing this month's equipment order deadline back a few days. September equipment orders and payments are due to me by 10 p.m. this Sunday, September 9. Items should be available for pick-up at IWFC Thursday night.

Then we have a long break coming up. There will be no fencing at either location from Sunday, September 16, through Thursday, September 27. The regular schedule will resume Sunday, September 30. So if you order equipment this month and need it before the end of the month, be sure to pick it up Thursday!

Although it's not on the Poquoson Parks and Rec website yet, the next set of Poquoson fencing classes will begin on Sunday, September 30. Registration is not open yet, however. Keep an eye on PPR's website and as soon as you see they've posted the fall schedule, you can contact them to register.

You can begin registering now for the October IWFC classes! The next IWFC beginner class will begin on Monday, October 1 and the next intermediate class (saber!) will begin on Tuesday, October 2. Details on both classes, including fees, can be seen here. To register, send an email to coach@iwfc.net with the name and age of the fencers you're signing up. Payment can be made in advance here or at the first class. We'll take care of equipment sizing and ordering as part of the first class.

Labor Day holiday schedule - 30 Aug 12

There is no fencing at either IWFC or PFC from Sunday through Tuesday due to the Labor Day holiday. The regular schedule will resume on Wednesday, September 5. See you then!

Weekend tournament results - 27 Aug 12

We had a couple of fencers in Charlottesville last weekend for the annual 'Back to School Brawl' tournament. Stephen fenced in the C and under epee on Sunday, a solid C2 event, and finished in the middle of the pack. Now onward and upward to the next tournament!

Rhiannon fenced in both the unrated foil event on Saturday and the C and under foil on Sunday. A month ago she had a beautiful run at the win in the unrated foil event up in Manassas but finished in second, just missing earning her rating. This weekend? Not a problem. Not only did she win Saturday's unrated foil event, earning her E12, she also finished 7th in the C and under foil, which also merits an E rating! And these two events were much tougher, making the E that much swEEter, I'm thinking.

Want to get out there and hit up a tournament or six yourself? The 2012-13 Virginia Division tournament schedule has been posted and will be added to the clubs' calendars soon. Start making notes of which events you'd like to hit and we'll get you ready to go!

Fencing on WAVY - 9 Aug 12

Here's the WAVY story and video on IWFC! A big thank you goes out to Reagan, Erin, Shane, Keith, Keith, Ed, and Tim for coming out this morning and giving them such great material to work with. And thanks also to everyone who said they wanted to but couldn't. This is the sort of enthusiasm and interest that makes IWFC such a great group!

Show 'em some love! - 9 Aug 12

Just saw WAVY's piece on the club and it's great! Everyone looked and sounded so good! Feel free to boogie on over to WAVY's Facebook page and let them know what you think. (I added a note there already.) As soon as the piece is up on their website, I'll post the link. Well, after I'm home from tonight's fencing, that is!

Awesome job! - 9 Aug 12

Many thanks to Stephanie Harris and Kenny from WAVY for coming out to IWFC this morning. And many, many thanks to all the fencers who came out and did such a great job representing the club and fencing! We'll be on tonight's WAVY newscast some time between 5:00 and 6:15 so set those DVRs! The piece will also be available on wavy.com after tonight so you can watch it there as well.

Thanks a million, you guys rock!

IWFC on TV with WAVY! - 6 Aug 12

Hey! Want to see more fencing on TV? Want to see local fencing on TV? Better yet, want to be seen fencing on TV? WAVY is interested in doing a story and would love to get video of people fencing at the club! Schedule constraints won't let them come out during our regular practices in the evening so we're going to hold a special practice/play session this Thursday morning (August 8) from 9:00 to 10:00. (And hey, if there are enough bodies there and people are still having fun, we might go until 11:00!)

If you can be there, please let me know at your earliest convenience either at tonight's practice or via phone (238.3111) or email (coach@iwfc.net), just so the reporter and I can get a general idea of how many to expect.

Classes and order info for August (plus foil mask change reminder) - 31 Jul 12

The next IWFC beginner class starts Monday, August 6! Classes are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 and the last class is on the 26th. The class fee is $60 and equipment can be either rented ($30 per month plus $10 to purchase a glove) or purchased (starting at around $110). Payments, equipment sizing, and paperwork are taken care of as part of the first class.

August equipment orders are due by 10:00 Wednesday, August 8. Visit Absolute Fencing or look through a catalog at club. Then fill out the order form and turn it in at club or email it back to me. Payment is due at the time you place your order. IMPORTANT NOTE TO FOIL COMPETITORS: Remember, effective August 1, 2012, part of the bib is now target area. Conversions are available for most masks so you do not have to buy a whole new mask (unless, of course, you want to). If you are planning on competing in both foil and epee, however, you will want to consider having one mask for each weapon or getting a mask with a changeable bib.

I hope everyone's been having fun watching the Olympics! If you haven't been able to watch events as they happen or want to watch them again, NBC has videos available here.

IWFC is on regular schedule - 30 Jul 12

We're back on regular schedule now so I'll see you at IWFC's open practice tonight!

Poquoson classes, club cancelled - 29 Jul 12

Sorry for the late notice but there will be no fencing classes or practice in Poquoson today! I've just come down very sick and cannot make the drive from the tournament in Manassas back to Poquoson. My apologies and we'll make up for the missed classes later!

Let the Games begin! - 27 Jul 12

You might have heard a rumor that there's some big sporting even or other going on in London (and other UK locales) over the next several days and that fencing is involved. It's true! Tonight is the opening ceremony for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games. And saberist Mariel Zagunis will carry the flag for the U.S. athletes.

The fencing schedule and results can be tracked here. You can set up alerts to remind you when an event is about to start as well as preview upcoming events. They also have the TV listings so you can start setting up your DVR to record your favorites.

Heat heads-up!!

July is always a tough month at IWFC due to the lack of air conditioning but tonight it feels worse in here than usual.  According to the little temperature readout on my desk, it's 93 in here right now.  It will start cooling down a bit very soon but it's going to be worse than usual tonight regardless.  Make a smart decision for yourself about fencing tonight, friends!  If you come out, plenty of breaks and lots of water will be mandatory!

Tournaments! - 26 Jul 12

Congrats to Stephen for taking second in the Commonwealth Games mixed epee last weekend! Scott took ninth in the foil and Stephen was also part of the fourth-place epee team. Great job, guys!

For those going to the Ronin Fencing Foundation Ratings Rally in Manassas this weekend, remember that they will be checking bodycords and lamés before the event. This will begin at 8:15 on both days. Make sure you plan to arrive with enough time to both check in and get your gear checked! Don't forget to pre-register if you haven't already done so!

Event - registration closing time - number of entrants as of 4:00 p.m. today (Thursday):

Saturday:

Unrated mixed foil - 9:30 - 24
D & under mixed epee - 12:00 - 2
Unrated mixed saber - 1:30 - 9

Sunday:

D & under mixed foil - 9:30 - 22
Unrated mixed epee - 12:00 - 4
D & under mixed saber - 1:30 - 15

I will be there all day Saturday and until noon or so on Sunday (have to leave then to make it back for Poquoson's classes and club session).

Up next, CFA's Annual Back to School Brawl in Charlottesville August 25-26. The entry fee is $25 if you preregister, $50 if you don't so don't forget! Prizes are awesome swords and knives (podium finishers may choose a Division medal in lieu of a pointy object).

Poquoson 4th of July schedule - 30 Jun 12

Hey Poquoson students and fencers!  I had my holiday weekends backwards. There is NO fencing or class this Sunday, July 1 and there IS class and club next Sunday, July 8.  Sorry for the confusion!

Weekend plans, upcoming classes - 6 Jun 12

Hey Poquoson fencers! Remember, there's no fencing this Sunday, June 10. But we'll be back to the regular schedule the following Sunday.

At a loss for weekend plans? This is the last weekend of the Virginia Renaissance Faire so come on out to the Lake Anna Winery, just west of Fredericksburg (take exit 118 off of I-95 and follow the signs). A huge 'Thank you!' to everyone who has come out and played with us so far this season. I hope to see a lot of familiar faces again this weekend!

Feel like a little competition? The CFA Summer Sizzler is this weekend in Charlottesville. They're offering C and under events in all three weapons plus an additional E and under foil event. And they give out pointy objects as prizes! Click on the above link to register.

What to do after this weekend? If you've just completed the Poquoson beginner fencing class, come practice those new skills at the club practices held on Sundays from 6:00 to 8:00. (No fencing this Sunday, see above.) The more you use those talents, the more fun you'll have! Did you miss some of the final classes? Not a problem, we'll get you caught up at practice.

Want to learn how to become a fencer yourself? The next Poquoson beginner class starts Sunday, June 17. Classes are from 5:00 to 6:00 and will run through August 26. (Note, the first class is from 4:00 to 6:00 and there is no class on July 1.) Visit Poquoson Parks and Rec's website for more details, including registration information. And although they only have the class listed in the youth section, it IS open to adults as well!

Have you taken the beginner class and are ready to learn more? The next Poquoson intermediate class starts Sunday June 17. Classes are from 6:00 to 7:00 and run through August 12 (no class on July 1). Contact Poquoson Parks and Rec to register. (Big, important note: In addition to completing the beginner class, fencers should have attended at least four club sessions before registering for the intermediate class!)

If those class dates and times don't fly for you, no worries. The next IWFC beginner class starts Monday, June 18. IWFC classes are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 with the last one on July 13. (No classes July 4 or 6.) The class fee is $60 and equipment can be either rented or purchased. Email coach@iwfc.net or call 238-3111 to register.

IWFC's next foil intermediate class begins Friday, June 22. Classes are Tuesday and Friday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30 (no class July 6) and the last one will be on July 20. The class fee is $60 and all electric equipment is provided. Email coach@iwfc.net or call 238-3111 to register.

Date changes for the upcoming week - 3 Jun 12

My apologies for the short notice on this. It seems like either all of the dominoes fall at once or they all fall except for the one big one that everything else hinges on. And this was one of those 'the big domino isn't falling' kind of things.

Anyhow, there will be no fencing at IWFC this week, Monday the 4th through Friday the 8th. (The Tuesday YMCA class and Sunday fencing in Poquoson are on as usual.) We'll resume our regular schedule next Monday, June 11.

To go along with this, the June equipment order is being moved back one week. Orders and payment are due by 10 p.m. Wednesday, June 13. As always the vendor is Absolute. If you have any questions, just let me know!

May play dates, new fencers - 24 May 12

This weekend is Memorial Day weekend so no fencing Sunday or Monday. Regular schedule picks up on Tuesday.

Speaking of Memorial Day, this weekend is Military History weekend at the Virginia Renaissance Faire so active and reserve service members get in free. (Admission for everyone else is just $9 and parking is free.) I've been remiss in getting word out online this year but we have three great weekends left. Come play with us at the Lake Anna Winery just west of Fredericksburg! It's a beautiful drive and a great way to spend a weekend!

And speaking of playing, a big 'welcome!' goes out to all of our new fencers. Two beginner classes just wrapped up so they're now ready to start joining us at practices to, well, practice their new skills! New fencers are encouraged to attend Poquoson's fencing practice on Sunday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 (directions) and/or IWFC's Level A (novice) practices on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 and Thursday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 (directions). Monthly dues are $20 for one person, $5 for each additional family member, and they entitle you to practices at both locations. You've worked hard on learning how to fence, now come out and fence!

Reminder: If you want to be automatically notified when a new update is posted and don't use Twitter or Facebook (I don't use them personally either!), click here and select your favorite reader or the 'Get IWFC - PFC delivered by email' option. Ta da!

Weekend way-to-go! - 7 May 12

This past Saturday was the Battle of Spotsylvania Veteran's Tournament and Dean and David made the trek up north to represent IWFC in epee. (I want a full report on the food, guys!) They got to fence with some of the best veteran fencers in the state and David turned it into an opportunity to earn his C rating. Way to go!

Pics and videos, including early electric saber! - 30 Apr 12

Men's epee team teaser photos

Amazing touch #1:



Amazing touch #2 & #3 - jump to 3:25 and 5:32:



My how the game has changed!  In 1988, electric saber was fenced for the first time in the US at the Saber World Cup:



* You could cross your feet going forward.
* If you retreated across the two meter warning line, halt was called, you moved back up to the 2m line, your opponent took distance, and action was resumed.
* There were no reffing hand signals.
* The short run-off space at the end of the strip is a little terrifying (3:24)
(Incidentally, 1988 is also the year in which I started fencing!)

For comparison, how about the Saber World Cup from 1996 or 2011?  Just a few changes in the game and technology!

May class and order dates - 27 Apr 12

The May equipment orders are due by 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 2 .  As usual, the order will be done via Absolute so check out their site and make your list.  Payment is due when you turn in your order.

The next beginner class starts Wednesday, May 2.  Class meets Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. for a total of ten sessions.  The class fee is $60 and equipment can be either rented or purchased.  Payment, sizing for equipment, etc. will be taken care of as part of the first class.  To those who have already registered, thanks!  If you want to join them, let me know by Tuesday evening.

Been thinking about learning epee?  May's intermediate class will be for epee with sessions on Tuesday and Friday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30.  The class fee is $60 and epee equipment is provided.   Email coach@iwfc.net to register.

May classes - 17 Apr 12

May class dates have been set!

The beginner class begins Wednesday, May 2, and meets Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00.  The intermediate class will be epee and will start Monday, May 1, meeting Tuesday and Friday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30.  General information about both classes, including fees and equipment information, can be seen here.  To register for either class, email coach@iwfc.net.  See you there!

Tournaments past, (almost) present, and future - 12 Apr 12

Past: Last weekend's Conomikes-Gutenberg Memorial Open was as much fun as ever, despite a smaller turnout than usual.  On Saturday, Shane and Rhiannon showed the club colors in fine style, both winning their first DEs.  The second round put them up against the eventual second- and third-place finishers, which made for some tough fencing, but they both took away some good lessons for their next outings!  A couple of ODU fencers were there as well, Charles fencing and Tim taking pictures (which you can see by following Tim's comment on IWFC's Facebook page).  Good to see ODU back out on the strip again!

Sunday's epee field was small but strong -- 21 fencers but 3 As and 2 Bs kept everyone on their toes.  Tim flew solo and handled himself well for his first tournament outing.  Hopefully it was just the first of many more to come!  And congratulations to frequent vistor Seth who took second and updated his C.

(Almost) present: Remember, the April NAC starts tomorrow in Virginia Beach and runs through Monday.  This is the National Championship for top-rated (Div I) fencers and wheelchair fencers.  (Top wheelie fencing is amazing, I highly recommend trying to catch at least a few bouts.)  And immediately following the Div I women's foil final Sunday afternoon, they'll announce the fencers who will represent USA in the London Olympics!  Per the USFA, 'After the announcement there will be a meet and greet with the Olympic and Paralympic athletes and autograph cards will be available for anyone in attendance.' How cool is that?

And in case that's not enough for you, there will also be youth fencing (Y10, Y12, and Y14).  The full schedule of events is here.  Admission is free plus just about every equipment vendor will be there so you can try out and try on equipment to your heart's content!  Need a new bag? Want to try on shoes?  See what that weird grip feels like?  This is your chance!  And don't forget to bring your cameras.  Photos and videos are always encouraged.  (Just be sure to turn off the flash!)

Bonus:  If you're a student needing some community service work (or just want to help out and earn a few dozen 'good noodle' points), the USFA is looking for volunteers to do simple but highly necessary tasks, such as posting information around the venue so the bout committee can stay focused on the complex job of keeping things running smoothly.  You don't have to know anything about fencing to help, you just need to be willing and there!  Email volunteer@usfencing.org to let them know if you can help.  Thanks!

Future:  Effective August 1, 2012, the lower portion of the bib will become target area in foil.  You may have seen some of the new masks already in use and you'll definitely see them around this weekend.  Does this mean you have to buy a whole new mask?  No, most vendors have conversions available for their masks (I have some on hand at IWFC for Absolute masks) and they seem easy to put in place.  You'll also need a mask cord like the ones used for saber; this connects the bib to the lamé so touches will register correctly.  Note: Masks with foil bibs cannot be used for epee fencing as they can cause touches to fail to register.  If you only want to have one mask for both weapons, the lamé fabric on the bib must be covered with tape or similar when fencing epee.

Quick tournament notes - 6 Apr 12

This weekend is the Conomikes-Gutenberg Memorial Open in Williamsburg. Although I've spoken to many of you in person about it over the past few weeks, I've been remiss in putting the reminders online.  It's at William and Mary's Student Rec Center (directions) -- it's a spectator-friendly venue so come on out and watch the fun!

The following weekend, April 13-16, is the April NAC, a national-level event.  It will be at the Virginia Beach Convention Center and features a great variety of fencing in all three weapons: Y10, Y12 and Y14 youth events, the wheelchair national championships, and the Div I championships.  Folks, we're talking being within arm's reach of past, present, and future Olympians!  And if that's not enough of an enticement, how about getting to check out and/or try on just about kind of fencing equipment imaginable? It's a four-day event so find a bit of time to go and watch some fantastic fencing.  Click here for the full event schedule.

Basic armory/troubleshooting class tonight - 23 Mar 12

Don't forget, tonight's the basic armory class at IWFC.  It's from 7:00 to around 8:30 and is only $5.  Shoot me a note if you're planning on going so I know how many to expect, please!  (If you don't and just show up, that's all right too but it sure would make my life easier if...)

Schedule updates - 13 Mar 12

As noted at class and club the past couple of days, there are some schedule changes over the next week:

Thursday - No fencing practice (level A or open)
Sunday - No class or practice
Monday - No youth fencing, OPEN fencing is ON
Tuesday - No level A
Wednesday - Regular schedule resumes

Also, Poquoson's spring break falls a bit differently this year so instead of missing just Easter weekend as usual, we'll be off for both April 1 and April 8.

Quick March notes - 6 Mar 12

First Wednesday of the month is tomorrow, the 7th, so equipment orders are due by 10 p.m. that night.  As always, Absolute is the vendor.  Orders and payment can be turned in at club or via email.  To those who have already turned in their orders, thanks!

There are no beginner or intermediate classes running this month at IWFC.  Instead, the evening times that are normally for classes will be available for private lessons.  Lessons can be for one person, two people, or even small groups.  Email me or call 238-3111 to schedule.

There will be a basic armory/troubleshooting class on Friday, March 23.  We'll start with basic hooking up questions ('Why did THAT light come on?') and work our way up from there.  We'll also cover basic weapon maintenance and repair, short of rewiring.  Class is from 7:00 to 8:30 or so and the fee is $5.   Bonus: You're welcome to bring an adult beverage or two (if you're legal to do so) and enjoy during/after class.  Email me or call 238-3111 to register.

Poquoson last-second change!

So here I sit at the Primary school watching people work on the gym floor again.  But we didn't get a heads-up this time. So sorry kids, no fencing - class or club - today.  I'll stay here for a while to catch people who don't see this note so if you want to brave the sleet and pick up your new equipment anyway, come on out. 

Classes, order, and tournaments - 7 Feb 12

New classes start at both Poquoson and IWFC this week!  Poquoson classes (beginner and intermediate) start this Sunday, February 12.  The beginner class is Sunday evenings from 5:00 to 6:00 (first class is 4:00 to 6:00) and the intermediate class is from 6:00 to 7:00.  Registration is done via Poquoson Parks and Rec.

The IWFC beginner class starts this Wednesday, February 8.  The class is from 6:00 to 7:00 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings.  Email coach@iwfc.net or call 238-3111 to register.

The February equipment order goes in this week.  IWFC orders are due by 10 p.m. Wednesday, February 8.  PFC fencers can turn in their order during club on Sunday, February 12.

Tournament schedule tweak: Due to a conflict with a large event outside our Division, the William & Mary Conomikes-Gutenberg Memorial Open has been moved to April 7-8. That gives you an extra week to prepare so I want to see a whooooole bunch of you enter!

Don't want to wait that long?  George Mason is holding a ratings rally and youth tournament in Manassas March 24-25. They'll have unrated and D and under events in all three weapons as well as Y12 and Y10 foil.

Our fencers had a great outing in Richmond at the River City Rumble the other weekend.  On Saturday, Shane took 8th in the foil event and Brandon T. competed in both foil and saber, pulling in a solid 10th place finish in foil despite the distraction of fencing his saber pool and foil DEs at the same time.  Sunday saw David, Stephen, Meredith, and yes, Brandon T. again, all fencing in epee.  David was on fire in the DEs, eliminating Meredith in the first round and very nearly upsetting the first place seed in the second round, ending with a 14-15 score and a very relieved opponent.  (Who, I'll add, went on to win the tournament.)  Brandon made it through the first round but saw his day end in the second, alas.  And Stephen took home a shiny for 5th when all was said and done.  All and all, a really darned good weekend!

Poquoson reminder, February classes - 29 Jan 12

Quick reminder for Poquoson fencers: No fencing tonight as they're fixing up something on the floor this weekend.

February classes are coming up!  The Poquoson beginner and intermediate classes start February 12.  Contact Parks and Rec to sign up.  Intermediate fencers must have completed the beginner course (or shown comparable skill) and attended sufficient club practices to show comfort and control in the skills they've learned so far.  Just finished the beginner class?  Join us for the club practices each Sunday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 and work on those skills you've been learning.  (Club membership and dues are taken care of through me, not PPR.)

The IWFC beginner class starts Wednesday, February 8.  Classes are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 and are a total of ten sessions.  The class fee is $60 and equipment can be rented or purchased.  Sizing, payment, etc. are taken care of as part of the first class.  Email or call 238-3111 to register.

The February IWFC intermediate class (foil) begins Friday, the 3rd.  Classes are Tuesday and Friday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30 and we meet a total of eight times.  The class fee is $60.  As above, intermediate fencers must have completed the beginner course (or shown comparable skill) and attended sufficient club practices to show comfort and control in the skills they've learned so far. Email or call 238-3111 to register.

Poquoson schedule notes - 22 Jan 12

Hey Poquoson fencers!  Just heard from Parks and Rec this afternoon that a bit of work needs be done on the new floor and they've scheduled it for next weekend, January 29.  So that means no fencing for us, alas!  We're off the following Sunday as well -- something about a big football game and historically only one or two people showing up that day and all that.  So I'll see you all on February 12!

Speaking of February 12, the next beginner and intermediate classes start that day as well.  Contact Poquoson Parks and Rec to register!

Informal saber event - 20 Jan 12

Looking for a fun saber scrimmage?  Mechanicsville Fencing Academy is hosting a saber event this Saturday.  Visit their website for more information!

Poquoson, game on! - 15 Jan 12

Poquoson starts back up again today!  So...

The beginner class has its last two sessions today and next week. Both are at the regular 5:00 to 6:00 time.

The intermediate class wrapped up before the break so now instead of having class for an hour then fencing for the last hour of club, you get to fence at club for the whole two hours, from 6:00 to 8:00!

And of course club practice will be the usual 6:00 to 8:00 two hour block.

Hangover Classic recap - 14 Jan 12

The Hangover Classic is one of Virginia's major fencing tournaments, offering all three weapons in both women's and mixed format.  It's always a pretty darned good weekend but this year it was just amazing.  I've actually started this entry several times but it kept dissolving into excited 'zomgyay!' keyboard gibberishjdfkwfsjher!!!!!

For starters, how about some numbers?  (Click for the full-size version.)

In other words, it was huge!  But the tournament committee and the refs did a fantastic job of keeping things moving along both days.  They even promoted everyone out of the pools - no cuts! - which meant everyone got to fence at least one direct elimination match.  So a huge 'thank you' goes out to all of them for making the event the huge success it was.

We had five people fencing on Saturday.  Scott, Liz, and Shane did mixed foil, Meredith entered women's epee, and Scott  and Brandon T. were in the monster saber event.  Sunday saw Scott and Meredith fencing again, this time in mixed epee, along with David, Stephen, and Ed.  Morgan came out as well, fencing in the women's saber event.

On Saturday, all three of our foilists had byes in the first elimination round, then Shane and Liz each went up against two of the three fencers who were tied for eighth at the time.  Their day ended there, alas, and they finished side-by-side in the final placing.  Scott made it into the round of 16 before he was finally bumped out by a fencer who continued into the final four.  He placed 9th overall, narrowly missing updating his C rating.

Meredith also had a tough match-up in the women's epee DEs, facing the 9th place seed in her first elimination round.  But it was a great warm-up for Sunday's mixed epee!

Saturday's mixed saber event was Brandon T.'s first competition and he picked a great one to start off with!  Although he was knocked out in his first DE, he made a great impression on a lot of people.  Can't wait to see him go out and do it again!  Scott fenced into the round of 16 before having to call it a day.

Sunday was another full day of fencing.  Although Morgan had to miss Saturday's huge saber melee, she was there for Sunday's women's saber event.  She won her first DE round but then found herself matched up against the number one seed and eventual tournament winner.  Still, not a bad way to spend a Sunday!

In epee, Scott, Meredith, and Ed are familiar faces at Virginia tournaments but David and Stephen were new to the division, although not new to competition.  David and Meredith fenced solid games and laid some good groundwork for their next outings.  Stephen had a bye in the first DE round and very nearly won the next round's match.  It was a heck of a bout!  And while his day ended there, it was enough to update his E rating to 2012.  Ed made it into the third round before being knocked out but he got to take home a C12 rating for his efforts.  And Scott made it two more rounds beyond that, finally being eliminated in the round of 8.  His 7th place finish earned him a shiny A12.  'Way to go!' just doesn't come close to how tickled I am with everyone's performances last weekend!

Although I was a bit busy with other things during our fencers' bouts, I was able to record one of the mixed epee semi-final matches and the final.  The videos are on our YouTube channel so wander on over and take a look when you have a chance.  There's some pretty sweet fencing there!

Order reminder, lost item - 11 Jan 12

Equipment orders are due tonight by 10 p.m.  Visit Absolute Fencing to make your list then either bring it to club or email it to me tonight.

Did you happen to find a black Bluetooth earpiece in your stuff after Monday night's practice?  If you do come across it, please bring it to practice tonight or email me if you can't make it. 

Next update: A recap of the most exciting Hangover Classic ever!

Poquoson notes - 7 Jan 12

Remember, one more week of no Poquoson fencing.  This time it's due to the Hangover Open, a major tournament in Richmond this weekend.  The regular schedule resumes next Sunday, January 15.  As noted earlier, the remaining two beginner classes will be held January 15 and 22 at the regular times.  After completing the class, beginning fencers are welcome to start utilizing their new skills in our open practices from 6:00 to 8:00 each Sunday evening!

The next Poquoson beginner class starts Sunday, February 12!  You can contact Poquoson Parks and Rec to register effective immediately, even though the class isn't showing up on the website yet.  The first class is from 4:00 to 6:00 to give us time to get paperwork and sizing taken care of, the remaining classes are from 5:00 to 6:00.

And if it's time for a new beginner class in Poquoson, it's also time for an intermediate class.  Yep, the next Poquoson intermediate class also starts Sunday, February 12. Again, contact Parks and Rec to register. NOTE: In order to take the class, you must have successfully completed the beginner class and you should attend as many club practices as you can before taking the intermediate.  If you are comfortable using the skills you learned in the beginner class without having to think through every action step by step any more, you'll get much more out of the intermediate class than if you don't attend any club practices beforehand!  If you have any questions, just let me know.

Thursday - game on!

Regular schedule resumes tonight.  Game on!

Wednesday status

The good news is I'm feeling a little better.  The bad news is I'm still pretty sick.  But with the Hangover this weekend, I know folks want to get in some practice so tonight's club session is on.  (I can sit in the corner and not breathe on anyone!)  Tonight's class, however, is off.   We'll aim for Friday for our first day, darn it!

Speaking of which, I know I've been spreading the word about the January beginner class both in person and in individual emails but it looks like I never got it up on the site itself.  Happily, January gives us some slip time so while the class's first day will be this Friday, the 6th, new fencers will be accepted through the following Wednesday.  So if you've been thinking about it, this is a great time to jump on in!  Remember, it's not exercise, it's fun!

The January equipment order is being pushed back a week due to this week's irregularities.  So visit Absolute's website and make your shopping list.  Orders and payments are due by 10 p.m. next Wednesday, January 11.

Tuesday - cancelled

Sorry friends, but Tuesday fencing is cancelled too.

Monday night - cancelled!

Well, Monday night fencing is cancelled. I'm sorry for the late notice but I'm not feeling my best today.  I'm hoping it's just travel fatigue, not an actual bug, but just in case it is 'plane plague' I'm staying home tonight so I don't spread it around. Hopefully we'll be back on track tomorrow!