EAST KINGDOM MARSHAL'S HANDBOOK
FOR PERIOD FENCING

I. Introduction

Fencers travelling from one end of the Kingdom to the other should be assured of finding substantially similar methods, calibrations, and practices being used in all areas. It is the purpose of this Handbook to provide a set of guidelines to all Period Fencing marshals of the East Kingdom.

II. Definitions

Authorization:

The process of determining whether a person is safe and competent to enter into tournament bouts.

Bout:

A combat between two fencers.

Double-Wide:

A form of epee that is wider in the blade than the standard epee. There is no consistent manufacturer's definition of a double-wide epee. At the present time, a double-wide is treated like any other epee.

Event:

An official activity of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. ("SCA"), which is covered by the insurance policy of the SCA. All participants at events are required to be in Medieval or Renaissance garb. In order to have fencing activities, an event must have a warranted fencing Marshal-in-Charge, and all of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence must be in effect.

Flexi-Dagger:

The product name of a small flexible blade approximately 18 inches in length, tempered only partway down the blade, and with a rolled head like a sabre tip. Flexi-daggers score touches like regular epees and foils.

Marshallate:

The collective body of warranted fencing marshals.

Mask Punch:

A commercially marketed device for testing the strength of the mesh in a fencing mask. The use of a mask punch by the marshallate is optional. The mask punch test should not be confused with the fabric punch ("four-thrust") test, which is performed with a broken foil blade.

Melee:

A combat which involves more than two combatants on the field. Specific safety rules for melees are set out in the Combat Conventions for Melees, in the Policies of the Earl Marshal, and in Section VI of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

Official Practice:

An official activity of the SCA, which is covered by the insurance policy of the SCA. An official practice must have a warranted fencing marshal present, and all of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence must be in effect. Any practice published in an SCA newsletter should be considered an official practice. Any practice at a site being paid for by the SCA or SCA members should be considered an official practice, and the Policies of the Marshal of Fence must be enforced.

Policies of the Marshal of Fence:

The Period Fencing Rules of the East Kingdom, as set out in the Laws and Policy of the East Kingdom, colloquially, "the Rules."

PVC:

A piping material commonly found at any hardware store. The Policies of the Marshal of Fence allow for thrusting-only daggers to be made out of a combination of PVC and foam.

Punch Test/Four-Thrust Test:

A test conducted on fabric or garb to determine whether it is thrust resistant within the meaning of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. Four thrusts are administered to the fabric or garb with a broken foil blade.

Tight-Weave Material:

A woven material with close stitches (i.e., without visible gaps between the threads of the weave). Examples of tight-weave material include twill, denim, canvas, and some forms of silk, linen and broadcloth. The tightness of the weave generally is not related to the weight of the fabric. Sweatshirt material is a knit, it is not tight-weave.

Thrust Resistant Material:

4 oz. leather; 4 layers of twill/trigger/champion cloth; any material which has successfully passed a punch test.

Warranted Marshal:

A legal representative of the SCA, Inc., responsible for enforcing the Policies of the Marshal of Fence and for ensuring safety in all SCA Period Fencing activities. In order to become a warranted marshal, a fencer must meet the requirements set out in Part V, Section D of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

III. Responsibilities of the Marshallate

A. Safe Fencing:

Safety is the primary goal and responsibility of the marshallate. All Period Fencing activities in the East Kingdom should be as safe as possible. To this end, individual marshals are required to enforce the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

B. Enjoyable Fencing:

Given the first concern for safety, fencing should be enjoyable, less a competition than a pleasurable activity.

C. Period Fencing:

Given the first concern for safety, fencing should bear as close a similarity as practicable to the methods and practice of the art of defense in the Renaissance.

It is the job of the Marshal of Fence to devise rules and methods to further these goals. It is the job of the marshallate to ensure that these rules and methods are followed by all concerned. The Marshal of Fence may conduct a periodic review of the existing rules, conventions and attitudes in order to ensure that the above goals are being fulfilled.

The job of the marshallate necessarily involves the enforcement of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. Since these Policies are written to apply generally, proper implementation and enforcement call for the exercise of personal discretion by each individual marshal. Marshals must understand the Policies of the Marshal of Fence thoroughly and apply them consistently, even though they personally may not agree with them.

IV. Marshallate Offices

A. Marshal of Fence:

The Marshal of Fence is ultimately responsible for all Period Fencing in the East Kingdom and for ensuring the proper growth, training and supervision of the marshallate. As a Lesser Officer of State, his or her further duties are set down in Part V of the East Kingdom Laws, covering Officers of State and in the specific sections therein covering the Marshal of Fence. The Marshal of Fence shall report to the Earl Marshal as provided by Part V, Section B(1)(b) of the East Kingdom Laws.

B. Deputy Marshal of Fence:

In accordance with Part V, Section B(1)(c) of the East Kingdom Laws, the Marshal of Fence shall designate and train a deputy who shall take over his or her duties in the event that the Marshal of Fence resign or become unable to perform them. The Marshal of Fence may assign him or her such additional responsibilities or delegate such additional authority as the Marshal of Fence deems fit.

C. Regional Marshals:

The Regional Marshal for each of the Regions of the East Kingdom is the senior marshal for that Region. He or she is appointed by, and is directly responsible to, the Marshal of Fence. The Regional Marshal is responsible for ensuring the safe practice of Period Fencing and for the training, warranting, and supervision of all Local Marshals and Marshals-at-Large within the Region. The Regional Marshal should not be the Local Marshal for the group in which he or she resides. However, the Regional Marshal may function as a Local Marshal on a temporary basis if there is need, but should attempt to find a qualified replacement as soon as possible.

The Regional Marshal shall submit a written report to the Marshal of Fence on the status of Period Fencing in his or her Region on a quarterly basis, in the months of March, June, September, and December.

D. Local Marshal:

The Local Marshal is responsible for ensuring the safe practice of Period Fencing within the Barony, Shire, or other local group in which he or she resides. The Local Marshal is directly responsible to the Regional Marshal. The Local Marshal shall help train fencers, assist in the authorization of fencers, and shall bring any candidates for the marshallate to the attention of the Regional Marshal. A Local Marshal has no more authority than a Marshal-at-Large, and is equal to a Marshal-at-Large in the chain of command.

The Local Marshal shall submit a written report to the Regional Marshal for his or her Region on a quarterly basis, in the months of February, May, August, and November.

E. Marshal-at-Large:

The majority of marshals in any given area are Marshals-at- Large. They are not responsible for a particular geographic area, although they may operate primarily in one place. A Marshal-at-Large is directly responsible to the Regional Marshal of the Region in which he or she resides. A Marshal-at-Large shall perform general marshallate duties, including the authorization of fencers, and the marshalling of bouts and melees.

F. Marshal-in-Charge:

The Marshal-in-Charge of an event or official practice must be a warranted fencing marshal. His or her primary duty is to ensure that the Period Fencing activities at a particular event or practice are conducted in a safe manner, in accordance with the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

The Marshal-in-Charge of any event with Period Fencing activities shall submit a report, verbal or written, to the autocrat of that event.

Should a fencing-related injury of any kind occur at an event or official practice, the Marshal-in-Charge, in conjunction with the Local Marshal, if any, shall submit a detailed report of the injury to the Marshal of Fence, with a copy to the Kingdom Chirugeon. This report should include:

• the SCA and legal name(s) of the injured and all persons directly involved in the injury;
• the address(es) and phone number(s) of the same;
• the date and place of the injury;
• the nature of the injury;
• detailed circumstances of the injury;
• a description of the action(s) taken by the marshals, the chirugeons, or by any other officer or representative of the SCA;
• the name(s) of the warranted chirugeon(s) in attendance, if any; and
• any other details of the injury which might be relevant.

VI. Warranting of Marshals

A. Qualifications:

In order to become a warranted marshal for Period Fencing, a fencer must meet all of the following criteria:

1. be a current, paid member of the SCA;
2. have current authorizations in at least three weapons forms; and
3. be acceptable to his or her Regional Marshal and the Marshal of Fence.

Only the Regional Marshal or the Marshal of Fence can warrant marshals. When the Regional Marshal or the Marshal of Fence feels that a fencer understands, and will comply with, the duties and responsibilities of the marshallate, the fencer will be given a warrant. There is no standard time period for the granting of a warrant.

B. Training:

1. Fencers who seek to be warranted as marshals for Period Fencing should make themselves known to their Regional Marshal. The Regional Marshal will then provide a training and observation course for the fencer. This course of training should include:
   • line marshalling in bouts and melee;
   • participation as an observer in authorization bouts;
   • weapons and armor inspections;
   • participation in the administrative aspects of tournaments;
   • introduction to other warranted marshals;
   • familiarization with the proper conduct of an authorization; and
   • a thorough understanding of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence and the Policies of the Earl Marshal.

2. A fencer seeking to become a warranted marshal (colloquially a "marshal-in-training") is not a legal representative of the SCA, Inc., and has no greater authority than any other fencer.

3. A fencer seeking to become a warranted marshal should not participate as a combattant in an actual authorization bout, as this practice is unfair to the candidate being authorized. When training in the proper conduct of an authorization becomes necessary, the warranted marshals responsible for teaching the fencer should set up a mock authorization procedure.

C. Issuing the Warrant:

When the Regional Marshal or the Marshal of Fence warrants a fencer as a fencing marshal, three 5 x 8 cards must be completed. These cards must contain the following information:

• SCA and legal names of the marshal;
• address and telephone number of the marshal;
• date of warrant;
• local SCA group of the marshal;
• event or official practice at which the warranting took place;
• SCA signature and office title of the warranting Marshal.

If a standard authorization card is used, "Marshal-at- Large" or "Local Marshal" should be substituted for "weapons form". One card shall be given to the new marshal, one shall be retained by the Regional Marshal, and the third shall be sent to the Kingdom Marshal.

VII. Authorization of Fencers

A. General Information:

1. In order to authorize and participate in any Period Fencing tournaments, all fencers must have executed the current waiver. Current waivers should be available from the Mistress/Minister of Lists. On and off in recent years, current paid membership has been required to authorize in any martial art. Marshals should check with their Regionals or the Kingdom Marshal regarding the current status of this rule.

2. Each fencer, recognizing the possibility of physical injury to him or herself inherent in the practice of Period Fencing, shall assume unto him or herself all risk and liability for any and all harm suffered in the course of Period Fencing.

B. Conducting an Authorization:

1. Each fencer must authorize in Single Rapier before using any other weapons form, as all other forms build upon the skills and techniques of Single Rapier.

2. Authorizations may be conducted only at SCA events or official practices.

3. Authorizations must be performed by two warranted marshals who are themselves authorized in the weapons form being attempted. One marshal will fence the candidate for authorization in the form being attempted. The other marshal will observe. Ideally, at least one of the marshals running the authorization should be unfamiliar with the fencing style of the candidate.

4. "Marshals-in-training" have no official status; while they may observe and comment on the candidate for authorization, they should not fence the candidate as part of the authorization process.

5. If the candidate has been taught primarily by one person, it is recommended that this person should not be one of the marshals running the authorization. The teacher is encouraged, however, to watch the authorization.

C. Criteria for Authorization:

The following criteria are intended to guide individual marshals in their assessment of a candidate. Each particular candidate for authorization should be assessed on his or her own merits, in light of his or her own performance at authorization, and in accordance with both the letter and spirit of the rules set forth in the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. No marshal should authorize a candidate unless the marshal truly believes that the candidate can and will fence safely and within the rules. Due to the nature of Period Fencing, assessment of safety must include an assessment of the basic competence of the candidate with the weapons form being attempted.

In order to authorize in any weapons form, the candidate must demonstrate:

1. knowledge and understanding of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence, especially those rules that apply to the particular weapons form being attempted;
2. the ability to safely execute and properly acknowledge blows;
3. the safe and effective execution of the offensive and defensive techniques appropriate to that weapons form, in the setting of an actual bout; and
4. the degree of competence and skill commensurate with the weapons form being attempted. Mere safety, without basic competence in the weapons form is insufficient for authorization.

a) single rapier:

The candidate should be able to demonstrate the following safely and competently:

• basic footwork (advances, retreats, lunges), while maintaining balance and an awareness of distance;
• simple straight line attacks;
• basic parries;
• complex attacks, such as feints or beat attacks;
• draw cuts;
• reasonable point control;
• reasonable calibration and blow-calling; and
• an understanding of the uses of the off-hand.

b) rapier and rigid parry object:

The candidate should be able to demonstrate the following safely and competently:

• parries (or blocks) of attacks with the rigid parry object;
• preventing the rapier and the parry object from becoming entangled;
• avoiding striking or attacking with the parry object;
• taking blades or making openings with the parry object; and
• use of the parry object in concert with the rapier.

c) rapier and non-rigid parry object:

The candidate should be able to demonstrate the following safely and competently:

• parries (or blocks) of attacks with the non-rigid parry object;
• preventing the rapier and the parry object from becoming entangled;
• avoiding striking or attacking with the parry object;
• taking blades or making openings with the parry object; and
• use of the parry object in concert with the rapier.

d) rapier and dagger:

The candidate should be able to demonstrate the following safely and competently:

• knowledge of the legal target area for dagger attacks;
• attacks with the dagger;
• parries (or blocks) of attacks with the dagger;
• preventing the rapier and the dagger from becoming entangled;
• taking blades or making openings with the dagger;
• use of the dagger alone; and
• use of the dagger in concert with the rapier.

e) case of rapier:

The candidate should be able to demonstrate the following safely and competently:

• attacks with both blades;
• parries (or blocks) of attacks with both blades;
• preventing the two blades from becoming entangled;
• taking blades or making openings with one blade while attacks with the other;
• use of both blades in concert.

D. Recommended Authorization Procedures:

While there is no single correct way to conduct an authorization, there are several elements which should be included in any thorough authorization. The following is a recommended standard procedure for authorizations.

1. The candidate's weapons and armor must be inspected to ensure that they comply with the required armor and weapons standards, as set forth in Parts II and III of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

2. The candidate should respond to several questions about the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. For a first authorization, the candidate should be questioned about the rules and customs of combat in Period Fencing and the East Kingdom. For later authorizations, the candidate should be questioned about rules applicable to the particular weapons form being attempted.

3. The candidate should first spar with one marshal, remaining primarily in a defensive mode. The candidate should concentrate on parries and blocks, but may riposte and stop thrust when openings present themselves. The candidate should verbally acknowledge valid hits.

4. The candidate should next spar with one marshal, taking on a primarily offensive mode. The candidate should perform various attacks in a controlled manner and demonstrate the ability to deliver valid touches with sufficient, but not excessive force. The marshal fencing the candidate must leave openings for the candidate to exploit, and should encourage the candidate to act on those openings.

5. The candidate and the marshal should then engage in several bouts in the usual fashion, each attacking and defending, each properly acknowledging and accepting blows.

E. Outcome of the Authorization:

1. Advice and training may be given to the candidate by the marshals at any time during the authorization.

2. Once the authorization procedure is completed, the two marshals performing the authorization should then hold a short discussion, aside from the candidate, discussing the strengths and weakness demonstrated in the course of the authorization. The marshals may accept suggestions and observations from other marshals or observers, but they must make the final decision as to whether or not the candidate is to be authorized.

3. Options available to the marshals include:

   a) declining to grant authorization:

   It is the responsibility of the marshallate to decline authorization to those persons who are unable to demonstrate safe and competent fencing.

   b) authorization:

   If the candidate is successful, the necessary paperwork must be completed by the marshals.

   c) provisional authorization:

   In certain instances, with the permission of the Marshal-in-Charge, a borderline candidate may be authorized for the purposes of the particular day, event, or tournament only, in order to provide the marshals with additional time to evaluate him or her. This option should be pursued only when the marshals are certain they will have adequate opportunity to observe the candidate throughout the rest of the day, event or tournament.

4. The candidate should be informed of the outcome of the authorization by the marshals. The marshals should discuss the reasons for their decision and the strengths and weaknesses demonstrated by the candidate, as well as provide any suggestions for improvement.

5. A successful candidate for authorization must complete three 5 x 8 cards (four if the candidate resides in a Principality). These cards must contain the following information:
   • SCA and legal names of the fencer;
   • address and telephone number of the fencer;
   • local SCA group of the fencer;
   • event or official practice at which the authorization took place;
   • the date of authorization;
   • the weapons form in which the fencer has authorized; and
   • SCA signature and office title of the authorizing marshals.

6. One white card is retained by the fencer for his or her records, the other two are sent to the Regional Marshal for the Region in which the fencer resides. The Regional Marshal will send one white card to the Kingdom Mistress/Minister of the Lists. In the case of a Principality, three cards are sent to the Principality Marshal.

7. A successful candidate for authorization must also complete a green authorization card. This card must contain the following information:
   • SCA and legal names of the fencer;
   • the date of authorization;
   • the date of expiration (two years after the first authorization);
   • the weapons forms in which the fencer has authorized;
   • the SCA signature of the person who observed the fencer's waiver being signed (Issuing Lists Official, usually the Mistress of Lists); and
   • SCA signature of the authorizing marshals.

8. The fencer keeps this card, and must present it to the Mistress/Minister of Lists at any tournament in which he or she wishes to participate.

F. Visitors to the East Kingdom:

Visitors to the East Kingdom who are authorized in Period Fencing in their home Kingdom may participate in Period Fencing in the East without re-authorizing, provided that:

1. They are familiar with the Policies of the Marshal of Fence and can demonstrate the satisfaction of the Marshal-in-Charge their ability to fence in a safe and honorable manner according to those Policies.

2. The Marshal-in-Charge has closely inspected their weapons and armor to ensure that it conforms as nearly as practicable with the standards set out in Parts II and III of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. Where the visitor's armor and weapons conform with the standards of his or her home Kingdom, the Marshal-in-Charge may extend the visitor the courtesy of passing his or her armor or weapons.

3. Any person who expects to reside in the East Kingdom for more than three months shall authorize in the normal manner as soon as practicable.

VIII. Marshalling Practices and Duties

A. Equipment Inspections:

Prior to beginning to fence at any event or official practice, each fencer must have his or her armor and weapons inspected by a marshal to ensure that they comply with the armor and weapons standards set out in Parts II and III of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. All weapons or items a fencer intends to use must be inspected. In addition, the fencer's armor must be inspected while all parts are being worn on his or her body.

1. The Four-Thrust Test ("Punch Test")

   The four-thrust test (colloquially, the "punch test") is mandated by the rules of the SCA, Inc. For all armor which is required to be 4 oz leather or 4 layers of twill/trigger/champion cloth -- that is, for torso and arm armor to the level of the elbow, for back of the head protection, and for neck protection -- any material other than those specified must be punch tested. The punch test involves striking the material four times with a broken foil, with increasing force. The punch test is performed against a penetrable surface, such as a block of ethyl foam (solid archery targets) or the ground in Texas.

   • The foil should be broken in the foible, and should only be missing about the top six or eight inches. Blades broken further down are too strong for the purposes of this test. Use only dry French foil blades.

   • The foil should be gripped at the tang with one hand, and no more than ten inches below the tang with the other. Gripping the foil too far down the blade will prevent it from bending. The blade should be permitted to bend when it strikes.

   • Ideally, the fencer should have a swatch of the same material as his or her fencing garb for testing purposes. Otherwise, the test should be performed on a non-vital part of the fencer's garb, such as near the hem.

   • Lay the fabric to be tested flat on the testing surface. The fabric should not be stretched or held taut.

   • Begin by striking the fabric with the broken blade at approximately the level of a maximum legal hit (i.e., about the same level of force it would take to put a two inch bend a in a standard foil). Allow the blade to bend as it strikes. Increase the force of the next three hits gradually. A good gauge for the second hit would be the force equivalent to that produced when both opponents lunge at the same time and strike each other. Remember that this test should be tempered by reasonableness -- anyone with a sufficient amount of determination, training or body mass could put a broken foil blade through any material at all.

   • After each hit, examine both sides of the fabric carefully. If the blade has penetrated more than one layer on either side of the fabric, then the fencing garb fails. If the blade causes a damage only to one layer, the garb passes.

   NOTE: The four hits usually drive the fabric (and the blade) into the testing surface. Accordingly, foam testing surfaces have only a limited useful life, and fabric tested on the ground gets rather dirty.

   Practical experience has shown that the four-thrust test is a very good way of discovering bad armor. However, the four-thrust test is not a substitute for marshal discretion. If a marshal has a legitimate fear about the safety of a piece of garb, then the marshal should fail that garb.

2. Armor Inspection Checklist
   Any armor that prevents its wearer from properly calibrating and acknowledging blows must be disallowed.

   a) Fencing Mask:

   The mask must completely cover the front and sides of the head, and be securely fastened. Check whether the mask is constructed as a 12 kilo mask or better. Also check for any significant dents or weaknesses in the mesh. Under the current rules, a marshal may not require the mask be tested with a mask punch if the mask is manufactured as 12 kilo mask, but a marshal may suggest such a test if the mask appears unsafe. A good field test, if a mask punch is not available, is to press the mesh with a thumb. If the mask flexes significantly, it is not strong enough. Armor standards for fencing masks are set out in Part II, Paragraph A of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

   b) Neck Protection:

   No skin shall show at the neck, regardless of the position or stance of the fencer. The bib on a modern fencing mask is not sufficient by itself. The minimum neck protection is 4 oz leather with at least 1/4 inch resilient padding. Any materials about which a marshal is uncertain should be punch tested. Armor standards for neck protection are set out in Part II, Paragraph B of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

   c) Back of the Head Protection:

   Protection for the back of the head must be 4 oz. leather, 4 layers or twill/trigger/champion cloth, or an equivalent material. Any material which is not 4 oz leather or 4 layers of twill/trigger/champion cloth must be punch tested. A fencer's back of the head protection must extend down below the ears and cover the back of the neck. Again, no skin shall show, regardless of the position of the fencer. If the marshal can touch hair or skin above the base of the neck, the back of the head protection is insufficient. Armor standards for back of the head protection are set out in Part II, Paragraph C of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

   d) Torso and Arm Armor:

   This armor should extend from the top of the shoulder to the base of the groin, and down to the elbows on the arms. The standard is 4 oz. leather or 4 layers of trigger/twill/champion cloth. All other materials must be punch tested. An Olympic- style, three-weapon fencing jacket will suffice when covered by one layer of tight weave material, such as twill. This outer layer must also extend from the shoulders to the base of the groin, and down to the elbows on the arms. A tabard of tight weave fabric open on the sides is not sufficient. From the elbow down, the arm must be covered by one layer of tight weave material. Armor standards for torso and arm protection are set out in Part II, Paragraph D of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

   e) Gloves:

   Leather gloves must be worn on both hands, and may not have any uncovered holes. Knitted wool gloves are not the equivalent of leather gloves. Canvas gloves may be passed on a case-by-case basis. Gloves must cover the wrist opening of the sleeves by at least three inches, so that a blade cannot go up a sleeve. Armor standards for gloves are set out in Part II, Paragraph E of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

   f) Groin/Breast Armor:

   Women are not required to wear breast armor, but they are strongly recommended to do so. Armor standards for groin and breast armor are set out in Part II, Paragraph F of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

   g) Lower Extremity Armor:

   Sweat pants or tights are not acceptable. Trousers or skirts must be at least one layer of a tight weave material such as twill, canvas, leather, or denim. Footwear must be warn, and must completely enclose the foot. Again, no skin shall show. Armor standards for lower extremity armor are set out in Part II, Paragraph G of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence.

3. Weapons Inspections

   a) Rapiers:

   Weapons specifications for rapiers are set out in Part III, Paragraph A of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. When inspecting foils and epees, the blades should be straight or have a single gradual bend. Check whether the blades retain a bend, whether they have S-bends or kinks. A good way of checking the bend of the blade is to place the point on a boot and apply light pressure in the direction of the blade's natural bend. Also check blades for rust, burrs, cracks or discolorations, which are signs of flaws or fatigue in the metal. Hilts should be checked to ensure that they will not catch and break blades.

   Tips should be checked to ensure that they are not worn through or split. Make sure that the fencer has not taped over the top of the tip. There should be enough tape on the blade to ensure that it can be seen from a distance.

   b) Daggers:

   Weapons specifications for daggers are set out in Part III, Paragraph B of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. Flexi-daggers should be examined in the same fashion as ordinary epee or foil blades. Daggers made of foam or PVC may not be longer than 20 inches pommel to tip.

   c) Parry Objects:

   A variety of possible parry objects can be used, ranging from cloaks, to bucklers, to mugs, to rubber chickens. Weapons specifications for bucklers are set out in Part III, Paragraph C of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. The marshal on the field must ensure that bucklers edges are covered sufficiently to prevent splintering or jagged edges. There should be no protrusions or "spikes" sticking out of the buckler. There should be no protrusions likely to inadvertently catch and break blades. Weapons specifications for cloaks are set out in Part III, Paragraph D of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence. Rigid hem weights, such as bars, rods, or chains are not permitted. Other non-rigid forms of hem weighing are permitted. The marshal should be sure to examine cloaks to ensure that they do not present an undue risk of catching and breaking blades.

   When inspecting an unconventional parry object, the marshal should assume the worst, namely that the parry object will somehow come into contact with an opponent in the worst possible way at the least opportune moment. If the marshal does not feel comfortable with this possibility, the parry object should not be allowed in the lists. There should be no protrusions likely to advertently catch and break blades.

B. Marshalling a Bout:

There should be at least one warranted marshal for every bout. If possible, there should be one or two extra marshals to observe the boundaries of the list and prevent fencers from running into the ropes. However, too many marshals on the field can be obstructions themselves.

The primary goal of marshalling a bout is ensuring the safety of the fencers, the spectators, and the marshal him or herself. A marshal is only secondarily a referee of the bout, and then only if requested by the fencers or in the event of a serious safety problem or rules violation. While active marshalling usually is discouraged, a marshal observing a serious infraction should not hesitate to step in and deal with the problem.

1. When a marshal first examines a list field, he or she should look for terrain problems such as large rocks, holes, wet areas, soft spots, etc. Fields and floors which are slippery or otherwise lack traction can contribute to injuries. If there are unavoidable problem areas, marshals should try to keep fencers clear of them or otherwise block them off.

2. When the fencers come onto the field, the marshal must make sure that they are fully armored and equipped. If they have not been inspected, the marshal should do so. In addition, the marshal should quickly look over both the equipment and blades to ensure that no problems have developed since inspection.

3. Before the bout starts, the fencers should calibrate. The standard Eastern calibration practice is for fencers to hit each other with the lightest blow they expect each other to feel. Ensure that the fencers understand this policy, and that they thoroughly discuss any problems prior to the bout. Thorough calibration is particularly important when one of the fencers is not from the East Kingdom.

4. Once the bout begins, the marshal should watch the action, just in case he or she is asked to give an opinion on a possible hit. The marshal therefore should be paying attention to the bout in front of them. Generally, however, a marshal should not express an opinion on a touch unless asked by the fencers. If asked for an opinion, the marshal should indicate what he or she saw, and try to help the fencers reach an amicable (or at least acceptable) outcome. It is always an option to arrange a re-fight.

5. After the bout has been completed, the marshal may ask the fencers whether they are both satisfied that the outcome was fair and correct.

C. Marshalling the Melee:

Marshalling melees is a difficult process. With a larger number of fencers on the field, a larger number of marshals are needed to watch for safety problems. The number of marshals necessary depends on the number of fencers, the space in which the melee is taking place, and the relative experience of both the melee fencers and the marshals.

Marshals running a melee must make sure that the applicable safety rules are followed. Both the melee rules for fencing, set out in Part VI of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence, and the general rules applicable to melees, set out in the Policies of the Earl Marshal, must be enforced. Marshals must ensure that no more than four opponents face any one fencer and that the proper rules of engagement are obeyed.

1. Attacking an opponent from the rear is considered both unsafe and unchivalrous. In order to attack an opponent, the fencer must be sure that the opponent is aware of his or her presence. To obtain proper engagement, the attacker must make eye to eye contact (if possible) and ensure that the defender acknowledges his or her presence in some fashion. The defender may acknowledge by counter-attacking. A fencer who deliberately and repeatedly ignores engagement is behaving unsafely and should be reprimanded by the marshals or even removed from the melee.

2. When a marshal calls "Hold" all action must stop. Fencers should drop to their knees and remain in place unless other instructions are given. A hold is "null time", and the marshals must ensure that no one gains an undue advantage as a result of the hold. No one should change position or discuss strategy during the hold. When the melee is recommenced, the marshals should try to ensure that it begins in as nearly the same position as it left off. As always, these guidelines should be adapted to particular safety problems.

D. Handling Disputes:

In the event of a dispute arising out of any bout or other combat, the marshal must play the role of mediator. Tact and firmness are essential to this role. The ultimate goal of the marshal as mediator is to ensure that disputes are not taken off of the field to fester.

The marshal should listen to both sides of the dispute, adding his or her own observations if applicable, and attempt to help the fencers come to an agreement. Impartial opinions may be advisable if the marshal did not see the problem or if the fencers cannot agree. Fencers who lose their tempers or are unwilling to resolve their differences may be asked to step out of the tournament or the melee until they regain their composure. The marshal should be particularly careful not to lose his or her temper, even when the fencers are losing theirs (often at the marshal). If a marshal feels that he or she is unable to impartially mediate the fencer's dispute, another person should be brought in to help.

IX. MARSHALLATE SANCTIONS

A. Sanctions Against Fencers:

1. Reprimand After an incident which a marshal on the field considers to be dishonorable, unsafe or a violation of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence, the marshal should warn or reprimand the fencer against such action. The marshal should discuss the incident with the fencer, preferably in a private setting, and make sure that the fencer understands the relevant rules or conventions which have been violated. The fencer should be made to understand that continuing such behavior can result in more serious sanctions. A marshal who reprimands or warns a fencer has the option to make a written report to his or her immediate superior. In general, the marshal should inform the marshal-in-charge of the event or practice the fact that a warning or reprimand was issued, and briefly explain the reasons for the reprimand or warning.

2. Removal from the Bout If, in the opinion of the marshal on the field, a fencer is unable to continue fencing safely, the marshal may remove the fencer from the bout. The fencer must be told why such action is being taken, with reference to the specific rules or conventions which have been violated. Once removed from the bout, the fencer may, at the option of the marshals involved, continue to fence for the rest of the day. A marshal who removes a fencer from a bout has the option to make a written report to his or her immediate superior. In general, the marshal should inform the marshal-in- charge of the event or practice the fact that the fencer was removed from a bout, and briefly explain the reasons for the removal.

3. Removal from the Field The marshal-in-charge of an event or practice may, upon his or her own discretion or with the advice of other marshals, determine that a fencer should be removed from fencing for the day or event. Removal from the field should be imposed for serious violations of the Policies of the Marshal of Fence, the Policies of the Earl Marshal, or the standards of safe and honorable combat. The fencer must be informed why the action is being taken, with reference to the specific rules or conventions which have been violated. The marshal-in- charge must make a written report documenting this action to his or her immediate superior, including the name of the sanctioned fencer, all the details of the incident, and any other relevant information.

4. Probation If a fencer engages in repeated and extreme violations, such that his or her ability to fence safely and honorably in accordance with the Policies of the Marshal of Fence, the Policies of the Earl Marshal and the conventions of the East Kingdom is called into question, the Regional Marshal of the Region in which the fencer resides may impose a probationary period on that fencer. The duration of the probation is within the discretion of the Regional Marshal, but the common practice is a duration of 6 months to a year. During that time, the fencer will be under close scrutiny to ensure that there is no repetition of the offending behavior.

   The fencer must be notified in writing about the imposition of probation, its duration, and the reasons for the probation. The Regional Marshal must submit a report in writing to the Marshal of Fence, including information on all documented incidents involving the fencer. Copies of the report should be sent to all other Regional Marshals. If, at the end of the probation, the fencer has shown improvement, the probation should be lifted. A written report reflecting the fencer's return to good standing should be sent to the fencer, the Marshal of Fence, and all Regional Marshals. If, however, the fencer has not improved, more serious sanctions may be imposed.

5. Removal of Authorization(s) Only the Marshal of Fence may remove a fencer's authorization in one or more weapons form, upon his own discretion or a written request from a Regional Marshal, Local Marshal, or marshal-at-large. A written statement of removal and the reasons for the removal must be provided to the fencer. In addition, a written report including the name of the fencer, the authorization(s) removed, and the reasons therefor must be sent to the Regional Marshals and to the Earl Marshal.

B. Sanctions Against Marshals:

Only the Marshal of Fence, acting upon his discretion or with the advice of other marshals, may remove a marshal's warrant. Cause for removal of a warrant include, without limitation, actions detrimental to the goals, ideals, and responsibilities of the SCA, Inc., the Kingdom of the East, and/or the marshallate.

C. Appeals of Sanctions:

All sanctions may be appealed to the next highest level in the marshallate chain of command. The chain of command is as follows (ascending order):

• Marshal on the field
• Marshal-in-Charge of the event or practice
• Regional/Principality Marshal
• Marshal of Fence
• Earl Marshal
• Crown of the East

A fencer sanctioned by a marshal on the field may appeal to the marshal in charge of the event or practice, and so on up the chain.