May 2021 Latest Club update

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It’s definitely adult time!!

We have it confirmed that we can now have adults and under 18’s* back at fencing as of the 23rd May. Also we are starting to think about the summer social as we expect booking will be in demand this year, please see below for details.

Key important points and things that have changed for fencing.

  • We will be open for those who have been fencing with us since April and everyone over the age of 18.
  • *We can still only accept those 18’s and under who were in the intermediate groups (Della and Gordon coaching) and above, we are working with the BFA to get this changed asap so we can welcome more fencers back and start beginner courses again.
  • You will need a valid BFA membership to fence.  Please check that status of your membership and renew where necessary.  Please email the club with details if you have had to renew since you signed up last year.
  • Everyone 16 and over will need to sign in at reception or use the NHS Covid app! This is a new requirement from the Government that the leisure center has implemented. To prevent parents/carers having to do this we will make sure some one is in reception at drop off and at the exit for pick up.
  • If you are someone who fenced with us last year we are assuming all the contact details you signed up with are still current, get in contact if they are not.
  • Our initial plan is to have a warm up and then a short group lesson for adults that want it, all under 18’s will be expected to be in the group.  One to ones are then available but strictly on a request basis, club members will get first request.
  • We have risk assessed for 28 fencers, so booking is essential.
  • If you have not fenced since April last year then you will need to sign up here , this can be done at any time.
  • Then you will need to book in here (no earlier than 5 days in advance) and pay here 

Whilst most of the rules governing fencing have stayed the same, please read the FAQ’s below.

Frequently Asked Questions as we know as of 23rd May

  • Who is classed as 18 and under: This rule laid down by the government is slightly peculiar, the criteria is anyone who is under 18 or turns 18 in this school year (Sept 2020 – Aug 2021).
  • Will the groups setup be the same as before: It has been confirmed that organised sport will not have to use bubbles as previously, this means that everyone can fence everyone else but must keep socially distanced when not fencing.
  • Will we need to wear face coverings:  Whilst you are not fencing a definite yes, however a face covering whilst fencing is recommended but not required.  For gentle warm up we expect a covering to be warn, if we are running etc. the coach may make it optional or ask that a full fencing face mask is worn instead. If you have a medical reason as to why you cannot wear a face covering please let us know.
  • Do we need to socially distance whilst not fencing: A definite yes. The BFA said this is as important as ever.  Please do not congregate in a group whilst at the club even if you are allowed to elsewhere.
  • Is close quarters work now allowed: The BFA has stressed this must be assessed, Lewis is planning on covering fleching in warm up next week and will assess those that need assessing. We then ask you to agree with each other before each match whether you will allow fleching.  NB. Some people may feel uncomfortable so please respect their wishes if they do not want you to fleche.
  • Is 1 to 1 coaching allowed: Yes, we will go back to a mixture of group classes and 1 to 1’s.
  • Should we shake hands at the end of the bout: This is still not required but please acknowledge your opponent with a salute.
  • Sanitizing: Continue as before at the end of each bout.  Glove off, sanitize your hands, sanitize the equipment and then sanitize your hands again.
  • Do we still keep the club equipment we have already: Whilst the rules have got a little simpler we are going to continue with allowing you to borrow the white kit and a mask.  Please try your kit on before attending your first session, if you need to replace something because you have grown please let us know BEFORE Sunday so we can bring it with us.  We will NOT have any white kit with us, if you do not have anything suitable you will not be able to fence.
  • Spectators: To allow us to have as many people fencing as possible, spectators will not be allowed unless there is a specific medical/child safety requirement.  Please contact us before the session if that is the case.  We will have at least two coaches at every session.
  • Personal lending of your own kit: Whilst we all like to lend out kit, at this time please do not.
  • Can we mix between groups: There will be no groups as before, so we can all fence everybody.
  • How much can we fence one person:  As before 2 * 15 bouts or 5 * 5 bouts.  A maximum of 20 mins fencing time.  We suggest you stick to the 5 points per bout to allow variety of opposition. The actual session time will be more of the limiting factor.
  • Will session times change: No, officially under 18’s is still 10-11am however for those who fence on piste by themselves can stay until 12pm.
  • Payment: As per previous sessions, this can be done before hand or via contactless payment on the day.  Cost is still just £5/£6 per session.
  • I have had both Vaccines do I still need to socially distance: Unfortunately, guidelines are that having a vaccine does not make you exempt from the rules.  You will need to continue to follow all the rules laid down by the Government, the BFA, the Center and the Club.
  • Remind me how do I sign up?

Summer Social
Even if you can’t make it to a fencing session all are welcome to the Lewes Fencing Club Summer Social Lunch for members, friends and family. It will be great to see as many of you as possible after such a difficult year.

Here are a few questions LINK HERE to help us gage the numbers for our social lunch currently planned for Sunday 18th July 1pm (Lewes venue TBC)
As with previous years we will aim to keep the costs reasonable and subsidise members.

We really are looking forward to seeing you this weekend or soon.
And if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

Best wishes

Claire, Della, Gordon, Lewis and Simon.