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  • Welcome to Lewes Fencing Club’s Autumn newsletter 2021

    Hi All A good start to the new term

    Thanks to everyone who came out to fence with us this term, it was great to see new and old faces.  Whilst our numbers are still down, they are growing and we hope to see a number of new and old faces this coming term.

    When are we back fencing?
    Our first session back is from the 31st of October through until the 12th of December (7 weeks).
    As usual, we will be looking to organise a club social on the last Sunday.  Details to come.

    Fees
    7 Week Term
    Adult £42
    Students £35
    Concessions £35
    PAYG Adult £10*
    PAYG Concession £8*
    * 1 to 1 tuition not available

    Payment can be made here 

    Membership Forms
    We require all members to have completed their membership form before fencing, if you have previously completed this form please do not complete another. If you have not completed a form and intend to come please visit our membership form here. nb, you will need an active BFA membership before completing this form.

    Groups
    Just to confirm these are the groups that we will be running next term

    6-10 Year olds: This group will run from 9 am to 10 am on Sunday mornings.  
    11-13 year olds: Will run from 10 am to 11 am on Sunday mornings. This group will do the normal warm-up before being coached in a group session. 
    14-17 year olds*: This group will fence electric on-piste amongst themselves and with adults, from 10 am until 12 pm (or whenever you have to leave). You will warm up as normal, it is then expected you will go into a Group lesson with Lewis.
    18+ year olds:  This group will fence electric on-piste amongst themselves, from 10 am until 12 pm (or whenever you have to leave). You will warm up as normal, it is hoped you will go into a Group lesson with Lewis but it is not a requirement.

    1-2-1’s: These continue as before after group coaching.  Please sign up with Lewis.
    * This group will include some people outside the range who have already been fencing electric.

    **DON’T FORGET THE CLOCKS CHANGE THIS WEEKEND**
    We continue to run Taster Session for anyone 6-13 years old (inclusive) every weekend we are fencing, we are looking to run a course for 14+ in the near future.  If you have any friends or relatives interested please have them complete this form here.

    BFA Membership
    For us to be able to run as a club, we have to be a member of the BFA.  And for that to happen each fencer must be a BFA member in their own right. Being a member helps grow the sport, you also get regular updates, and does include your own third-party insurance. If you have never had a membership before there is a 90-day free trial otherwise you will need at least a Recreational membership.  More details can be found here https://www.britishfencing.com/become-a-member/

    The COVID situation UPDATE
    Whilst the number of infections seems to continue to grow and there is talk of a Plan B we really do not see that this will affect the club, with the exception that we may need to be a bit more strict on the mask situation.  But at present nothing has changed to the way we have fenced for the last couple of months.

    Please consider face masks. Face masks are optional, but we do suggest you wear them when not fencing/cooling down after a match.
    Please consider wiping down the kit after each fight.
    Please consider sanitizing your hands regularly Please consider your distance.
    Please consider other people’s choices.
    Salutes at the end of a match should be used instead of a handshake.
    Parents are now able to stay in the hall, but they should take the same precautions as everyone else, eg wear masks, social distance.
    Doors are to be kept open whenever possible so as to aid ventilation.
    Temperatures will still be taken of everyone in the hall, if your temperature is high (37.8 or above) you will not be able to fence/stay.
    The center may have other precautions in place, please follow their guidelines.
    Your vaccination position does not exclude you from any of these considerations. 

    Welfare
    If you feel something is not safe please tell one of the committee members who will look to rectify it. You can talk to us during the session, or after the session via email,  enquiries@lewesfencingclub.org.uk If the issue is specifically welfare, ie child-related or you do not feel comfortable emailing the main email please use welfare@lewesfencingclub.org.uk  this will go directly to our Welfare officer (Claire Cox). We are looking forward to seeing you soon, and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.


    Best wishes  Claire, Della, Gordon, Lewis and Simon.
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  • August 2021 Latest Club update

    We are back (mostly) from the 12th September

    Hi All

    We are almost ready to go!!
    School holidays are nearly finished, that means its time to get back to fencing. 14+ are back fencing from the 12th, 11+ from the 19th September.  Please see below about the new groups.

    The COVID situation
    The situation is better and we pretty much have no limits on fencing, having said that we will still have to consider things when we get together.

    • Please consider face masks. Face masks are optional, but we do suggest you wear them when not fencing/cooling down after a match.
    • Please consider wiping down the kit after each fight
    • Please consider sanitizing you hands regularly
    • Please consider you distance.
    • Please consider other peoples choices.
    • Salutes at the end of a match should be used in stead of a hand shake.
    • Parents are now able to stay in the hall, but they should take the same precautions as everyone else, eg wear masks, social distance.
    • Doors are to be kept open whenever possible so as to aid ventiflation.
    • Temperatures will still be taken of everyone in the hall, if your temperature is high (37.8 or above) you will not be able to fence/stay.
    • The centre may have other precautions in place, please follow their guidelines.
    • Your vaccination position does no exclude you from any of these considerations. 

    Kit
    Many of our younger fencers have been taking club kit home after each session.  We have now arranged for you to have your ‘own’ bag at the club in which to store equipment.  This means you do not need to take it home after each session.

    Groups
    We are rearranging the groups so that we can attract more members.
    6-10 Year olds: We are investing in Midi Fence kit so that we can attract a younger group, please note this new kit is being funded by a grant from the Chalk Cliff Trust that Claire successfully gained (Thanks Claire).  This group will run from 9am to 10am on Sunday mornings.  We have yet to secure the space, but should be able to do this as of October. 
    11-13 year olds: This group will run from the 19th September and will be a group dedicated to fencing with metal non electric weapons, and will run from 10am to 11am on Sunday mornings. This group will do the normal warm up before being coached in a group session. Exception to this is any one who is in this age group and has fenced with us since September 2020.  These people will fence in the 14-17 year old group.
    14-17 year olds: This group will fence electric on piste amongst themselves and with adults, from 10am until 12pm (or when ever you have to leave). You will warm up as normal, it is then expected you will go into a Group lesson with Lewis.
    18+ year olds:  This group will fence electric on piste amongst themselves, from 10am until 12pm (or when ever you have to leave). You will warm up as normal, it is hoped you will go into a Group lesson with Lewis but it is not a requirement.
    1-2-1’s: These continue as before after group coaching.  Please sign up with Lewis.

    When are we fencing?
    Our first session back is the 12th September (19th for 11-13 year olds) through until the 17th October (6 weeks) and then the 31st October through to the 12th December (7 weeks)

    Fees
    Whilst our finances are tight, we have decided to keep our membership fees the same £6 a session for adults and £5 for Students and Concessions.  Members fees will be paid for by the term.  PAYG fees will go up to £10 per session for Adults and £8 for Students and Concessions.  NB Anyone below the age of 14 cannot be PAYG and if you want 1 to 1 lessons you must be a member.  This means the fees for the first term will be £36 for adults and £30 for students and concessions (£25 for 11 to 13 yos who start a week later). 

    BFA Membership
    For us to be able to run as a club, we have to be a member of the BFA.  And for that to happen each fencer must be a BFA member in their own right. Being a member helps grow the sport, you also get regular updates and does include your own third party insurance. If you have never had a membership before there is a 90 day free trial otherwise you will need at least a Recreational membership.  More details can be found here https://www.britishfencing.com/become-a-member/

    Membership Forms and Checking In
    We require all members to have completed their membership form before fencing, if you have previously completed this form please do not complete another, you will receive an email very shortly allowing you to update your existing form.  If you have not completed a form and intend to come please visit our membership form here. NB. you will need an active BFA membership before completing this form.
    There will be no need to check in prior to fencing on a Sunday, although you should make sure we check you in on the day.

    Welfare
    If you feel something is not safe please tell one of the committee members who will look to rectify it. You can talk to us during the session, or after the session via email, enquiries@lewesfencingclub.org.uk If the issue is specifically welfare, ie child-related or you do not feel comfortable emailing the main email please use welfare@lewesfencingclub.org.uk , this will go directly to our Welfare officer (Claire Cox).

    We are looking forward to seeing you soon, and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

    Best wishes

    Claire, Della, Gordon, Lewis and Simon.

  • The new term starts 12th September 2021

  • May 2021 Latest Club update


    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.

  • April 2021 Latest Club update Covid -19

    We are reopening on the 18th of April for 18’s and under

    Over 18’s watch this space, May 23rd looks promising.

    Its time (almost)! Are you as excited as we are!!, its almost time to reopen.  We look forward to seeing you.

    This is an update on where Lewes Fencing Club currently stands on restarting the club at the 18th April and the advice currently being given by British Fencing and Lewes Leisure centre.

    Here is an outline of what we have put in place:

    Booking will be open from Tuesday

    Key important points and things that have changed.

    • We are only open for 18’s and under.
    • At present we can only accept those 18’s and under who were in the intermediate groups (Della and Gordon coaching) and above
    • Over 18’s watch this space, May 23rd looks promising.
    • 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.
    • Everyone 16 and over will need to sign in at reception or use the NHS 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.  Could you please make sure you are on time.
    • If you are someone who fenced with us last year we are assuming all the contact details you signed up with last year are still current, get in contact if they are not.

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

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • 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).
    • Are you definitely re-opening: Yes the BFA has give us the go ahead for 18’s and under, the other part of the puzzle was the leisure center and they have agreed to our risk assessment, rules and regulations today.
    • Can only a certain number fence?: We are still limited by the size of the hall and the space (approx. 3m x 3m) that each person is required.  We are allowed up to 15 members per group and we can have more than one group in the hall.
    • Will the groups setup be the same as before: This is number dependent, but basically yes. You will need to book on to a session before each Friday and we will put you into groups before the Sunday.
    • Will we need to wear face coverings: There has been a slight change here.  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 mask to be warn, if we are running etc. the coach may make it optional or ask that a full fencing face mask is worn.
    • 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: Strictly speaking yes, but this is down to the skill level of those fighting.  To make this easy we will continue with no.  We ask those fighting and refereeing to keep this is mind halting and warning those that get too close.
    • Is 1 to 1 coaching allowed: Yes, we will continue with the procedure we did last term where a coach allocated to a group will pull out people for 1 to 1 coaching, coaching will still be done at arms length.
    • 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 had last term: 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 a 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 is no definitive answer on this.  Our groups can now be up to 15 in size, it is likely we will work with 6. But it will probably be unmanageable for us to then allow mixing of these 6 unless our total number is under 15.  We will work this out as we go, but for now assume No.
    • Will I fence everyone in my group: This is down to your group to sort out, but ideally yes.
    • 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 per session.
    • I have had both Vaccines can I fence properly and mix: 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?

    * If you have a medical reason as to why you cannot wear a face covering please let us know.

    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

    Anita, Claire, Della, Gordon, Lewis and Simon.