Fencing
Fencing is a fast and athletic sport, very much different from the films you see at the cinema or on television. The action is so fast that it is judged electronically rather than by eye. The sword is one of the oldest of weapons and, as Egyptian frescoes circa 1200BC show, fencing is one of the oldest of sports. Fencing is one of the safest of sports and, provided the correct equipment is used, even minor injuries are uncommon. Fencing should never be tried unless supervised by a qualified teacher and the correct clothing is worn and the correct equipment is used. It is not expensive to start fencing. Most clubs charge a membership fee which normally includes the cost of tuition and hire of equipment.
Courses
On Sunday 23rd October, British Fencing are running a GO/FENCE leaders' course at Northumbria University in Newcastle. GO/FENCE is British Fencing's introduction to the sport, using plastic and foam equipment. The one-day leaders' course teaches participants, who do not need any prior experience in fencing, how to lead fencing sessions using the "soft" kit. The course is appropriate for leaders (14+), teachers, multi-sports coaches, etc. The application form can be found at http://www.britishfencing.com/academy/academy-courses/.
Please view this VIDEO LINK to see Go Fencing in action in a project led by Whickham and Gateshead School Partnership.
Street Swords Project
The Street Swords project has gained over £10,000 funding from Sport England, Darlington Borough Council, The Co-Operative and England Fencing to enable fencing training, competitions and coaching skills to people aged 11 and over, in the Darlington area, who are disengaged and are at risk of offending. The programme of taster and beginners sessions will develop the basic skills of fencing, progressing to competition and hopefully establish Street Sword clubs. Regional Fencing Development Officer and National Team Manager, Beth Davidson is looking for potential people to become Street Sword coaches for the project, which requires no previous knowledge of fencing, only some experience in coaching sport. They have to be able to communicate with others and enthuse young people to become involved in the activities!
Selected Street Sword coaches will be funded for equipment and training to NGB British Fencing coach standards. Some voluntary work is anticipated during the training period but further funding will be available after the coach is qualified. Street Sword was inspired from other sport schemes such as Midnight Basketball in a number of cities (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/335914.stm) and Midnight Ping Pong in Hungary, which proves opportunity and informality to take part in sport, has very positive affects in reducing crime in the surrounding area. Fundamentally, fencing requires great skill, concentration and discipline to do well. Strength is not important so girls and boys can compete together! For those interested or require further information, contact Beth Davidson, NE Regional Development Officer.
