POLICIES OF THE EARL MARSHAL OF ÆTHELMEARC
POLICIES OF THE EARL MARSHAL OF ÆTHELMEARC
.
I.
THESE POLICIES ARE IN ADDITION TO SOCIETY LAW AND POLICY.
IN THE CASE OF ANY DISCERPANCY, SOCIETY POLICY TAKES PRECEDENCE.
II.
DEFINITION:
A.
The Æthelmearc Youth Martial Academy is a program for minors ages 6 through 17
and their parents to provide a safe and supportive environment to participate in
martial activities designed especially for minors.
III.
GOALS:
A.
The goals of the Æthelmearc Youth Martial Academy are:
1.
The primary component of this program is youth martial activities, which include
both combat and rapier formats.
2.
The Academy will also strive to introduce and reinforce the ideals of chivalry,
honor, courtesy, service, and heraldic pageantry both on and off the list field.
IV.
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE:
A.
All warranted positions within the youth combat structure are now subject to the
Society ruling regarding background checks.
The policy (implemented 2/15/08) currently reads: “Officials who are
required to have background checks include, but are not limited to, youth
activities officers at all levels, adults acting as youth marshals for any
martial activity, persons organizing/in charge of youth activities for
events.”
B.
Youth martial activities, both youth combat and fencing, within the Kingdom of
Æthelmearc are regulated and monitored by the Chancellor of the Youth Martial
Academy, an appointed Kingdom-level deputy of the Kingdom Seneschal and
the Kingdom Earl Marshal. The Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy is the
head of the Youth Martial Academy.
C.
The Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy will supervise the activities of
officers under him/her who head up the various activities in the program. These
officers include Regional Deputies, Group Youth Marshals, and At-Large Youth
Marshals, specifically warranted in their particular activity, and under them,
the minor participants themselves.
D.
Also under the supervision of the Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy is an
officer called the Warlord for Youth Combat Activities, whose responsibility is
the organization and running of appropriate youth combat classes, practices,
authorizations, and tournaments at Pennsic and other such Inter-Kingdom wars as
are practicable. This positions is optional to be filled as need requires.
V.
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE OFFICE OF CHANCELLOR OF THE YOUTH MARTIAL ACADEMY:
A.
You must be 18 years of age or older.
B.
You must be a member of the Society at any level and have access to the Kingdom
newsletter at your place of residence. Your membership must be maintained,
without lapse, for the duration of your tenure in your office.
C.
You must have a valid mailing address and telephone number. Access to e-mail is
desirable.
D.
You must agree to fulfill the duties of the office and be acceptable to The
Kingdom Seneschal and Earl Marshal.
E.
The Kingdom Seneschal and/or Earl Marshal reserve the right to refuse to appoint
any particular individual to office. Should a request to be appointed be denied,
the Kingdom Officer issuing the refusal shall advise the candidate and the Crown
in writing of the reasons why he/she was refused.
VI.
REQUIREMENTS TO OBTAIN A YOUTH MARSHAL WARRANT:
A.
You must be 18 years of age or older.
B.
You must be a member of the Society at any level and have access to the Kingdom
newsletter at your place of residence. Your membership must be maintained,
without lapse, for the duration of your tenure in your office.
C.
You must have a valid mailing address and telephone number. Access to e-mail is
desirable.
D.
You must have passed any required background checks required by the SCA.
VII.
APPOINTMENT OF REGIONAL DEPUTIES:
A.
The Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy may appoint Regional Deputies to
oversee the youth martial program on a regional level. Candidates must meet the
requirements for office 1-4 as outlined above and be specifically authorized as
a Youth Marshal.
B.
The Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy will forward this information to the
Kingdom Seneschal to begin the background check process. Final marshal warrants
cannot be issued until the background check process is complete.
VIII.
WARRANTING OF GROUP YOUTH MARSHALS:
A.
The selection of a Group Youth Marshal is governed by local customs and/or group
policies for selecting officers. Groups are not required to have a Group Youth
Marshal, but are strongly encouraged to fill the position.
B.
You must meet the requirements for office outlined above 1-3 and be specifically
warranted as a Group Youth Marshal by the Regional Kingdom Deputy for your area.
C.
Your request for Local Group Marshal Positions will forwarded to the Chancellor
of the Youth Martial Academy, providing him/her the following information: SCA
and legal names, full mailing address and telephone number (and e-mail address,
if applicable), proof of membership (e.g., a copy of your membership card or
mailing label from the Kingdom newsletter), and proof of your authorization as a
Group Youth Marshal. Failure to provide any of this information can result in a
delay in your appointment.
D.
The Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy will forward this information to the
Kingdom Seneschal to begin the background check process. Final marshal warrants
cannot be issued until the background check process is complete.
IX.
WARRANTING OF AT-LARGE YOUTH MARSHALS:
A.
You must meet the requirements for office outlined below and be specifically
authorized as an At-Large Youth Marshal (see Marshallate Guidelines).
B.
You must request appointment to the office by notifying the Chancellor of the
Youth Martial Academy and providing him/her the following information: SCA and
legal names, full mailing address and telephone numbers (and e-mail address, if
applicable), proof of membership (e.g., a copy of your membership card or
mailing label from the Kingdom newsletter), and proof of your authorization as
an At-Large Youth Marshal. Failure to provide any of this information can result
in a delay in your appointment.
C.
The Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy will forward this information to the
Kingdom Seneschal to begin the background check process. Final marshal warrants
cannot be issued until the background check process is complete.
X.
MARSHALLATE GUIDELINES
A.
Marshals on the field are expected to take an active role in safety,
sportsmanship and assistance in calibration. It is to be understood that all
youth marshalling is to fall within the 2 deep rules mandated by the background
check policy.
B.
An Adult Youth combat Marshal is a person at least age 18 authorized to:
1.
Marshal on the youth combat field
2.
Inspect weapons and armor of youth combat
3.
Authorize youth combatants in all three youth combat classes
C.
At least one (1) warranted Adult Youth combat Marshal is required to be on the
field for any practice or tournament bout.
D.
Warranted Youth Marshals are responsible for combat safety. This includes, but
is not limited to, checking weapons and armor, specific training in target
areas, calibration and the “die defensively posture”, observing combat, warning
a combatant of inappropriate or dangerous actions, disallowing dangerous
weapons, and, if necessary, removing a combatant from the field.
E.
Any combatant who refuses to obey the commands of the marshals shall be removed
from the field.
F.
Prior to any combat (practice or tournament) all equipment must be inspected by
a warranted youth combat marshal and shall meet all safety and armor
requirements pertaining to the appropriate division.
XI.
YOUTH MARSHAL-IN-TRAINING (YMIT) PROGRAM
A.
Definitions
1.
Youth marshal in training (YMIT) - an authorized participant of the Æthelmearc
Youth Combat Academy, at least 16 years of age but not yet 18, who has been
sponsored by a Warranted Youth Marshal to assist in the lists, with training and
with authorizations.
B.
Program Guidelines
1.
Youth Combat Marshal-In-Training:
a.
A Youth Combat Marshal-In-Training (YMIT) is a resident of the Kingdom of
Æthelmearc and an
authorized youth fighter
16 years of age or older, that has been accepted by the Chancellor of the Youth
Martial Academy, or the Youth Combat Regional Deputy of his/her local region as
a trainee to be taught the skills and techniques required to become a Youth
Combat Marshal (YCM) of the Kingdom.
b.
The potential candidate must obtain a letter of reference from the Seneschal of
their local group.
c.
Upon the acceptance of an individual as an YMIT, the sponsoring Marshal is to
assume the responsibility for the training and education of the individual in
the skills and knowledge required to conduct Youth Combat Program activities in
the Kingdom. Additionally, the sponsoring Marshal must notify the Chancellor of
the Youth Martial Academy of the acceptance of the trainee, the sponsoring
Marshal of the trainee, and to provide copies of the required recommendation and
character reference. It is also the responsibility of an YMIT to keep
himself/herself informed and up to date on all rules, regulations, guidelines
and/or conventions that are currently in effect to govern the conduct of all
Youth Combat Program activities in Æthelmearc.
d.
A YMIT shall remain as a trainee until they reach the age of majority (18) and
have satisfied his/her trainer they have reached the level of skill and
knowledge necessary to be granted a Youth Marshal Warrant as described above.
XII.
TERM OF OFFICE
A.
Youth Marshal warrants are valid for the term of the Chancellor under whom the
warrant was issued. Upon the induction of a new Chancellor, all warrants will
need to be renewed.
XIII.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS:
A.
Regional Deputies and the Warlord for Youth combat Activities will submit a
written report of activity to the Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy
quarterly on March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1.
B.
The Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy shall submit a written report of
activity to the Earl Marshal quarterly on March 15, June 15, September 15, and
December 15. This report shall consist of compiled reports from the Regional
Deputies, and Warlord and a summary report of the Chancellor's own activities
for the quarter.
C.
Other reporting responsibilities for all Academy officers include authorization
reports, as necessary, and injury reports. Any injuries incurred by participants
must be reported by telephone or in person to the Chancellor for the Youth
Martial Academy and the Earl Marshal within 24 hours of the injury. If neither
can be reached, contact the Kingdom Seneschal directly. The verbal report must
be followed up by a written report sent to the Earl Marshal and the Kingdom
Seneschal within 10 days of the incident, with a courtesy copy to the Chancellor
of the Youth Martial Academy. This format should also be followed to report
weapons failure.
XIV.
ENFORCEMENT OF MINOR WAIVER POLICIES:
A.
It is the responsibility of the group seneschal, in cooperation with the youth
marshals that minor policies are adhered to at all events/practices/activities
held within the groups area. These policies must be clearly communicated to
anyone manning troll at any event.
B.
All signed minor waivers executed at the list area are to be collected and given
to the Youth Marshal in charge of that event, practice, or activity. The Youth
Marshal in charge will be responsible for sending minor waivers to the
Æthelmearc Kingdom MOL within 30 days of any event, and monthly in the case of
regular practices.
C.
This differs from minor waivers collected at the troll for entry to the event,
which are collected by the event steward/autocrat and sent to the Æthelmearc
Waiver Officer.
XV.
GENERAL CONVENTIONS FOR PARTICIPATION
A.
These rules and guidelines apply to all Youth combat Divisions, ages 6-17.
Specific differences between the divisions are addressed in "Divisional
Standards".
XVI.
THE RULES OF THE LIST
A.
Although the rules of the list of the SCA do not specifically include youth
combat, all those rules apply unless superseded by a rule in this document.
B.
The conventions of combat of the SCA apply to youth combat unless superseded by
a rule in this document.
C.
The Æthelmearc Armored Combat conventions apply to youth combat unless
superseded by a rule in this document.
XVII.
PARENTS/ LEGAL GUARDIANS RESPONSIBILITIES
A.
Parents/legal guardians are to understand this is a contact sport and that
injuries may occur. Parents/legal guardians are required to read and understand
these rules and standards and are to make sure that their minor follows them.
B.
At least one responsible person, 18 years old or older, must be present at the
event at all times while the minor is engaged in Youth combat activities. For
6-9 year olds this requires a responsible party, 18 years old or older, to be
within visual and vocal range of the list area. For 10+ year olds, the
responsible party, 18 years old or older, must be at the same site as the youth
combat.
YOUTH MARSHALS ARE NOT BABYSITTERS. THEY ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR MINORS
PARTICIPATING IN COMBAT ACTIVITIES.
C. If a parent cannot be at the event and wishes to assign someone as a responsible party in their stead (where it is allowable by the site rules), the parent must provide the Youth Marshal with a minor medical authorization form which can be found on the Youth Combat website and includes the following information; Parent/Guardian name, child’s name, name of responsible party, any allergies or medical conditions the child may have and full contact information. It is suggested that this form be notarized for the safety of all involved. (Youth marshals acting in their capacity as marshals may NOT be designated as responsible parties!)
D.
If the child is ejected from the lists for any reason, the child will be turned
over to the custody of the parent/responsible party. Should the
parent/responsible party need to leave the list area (in the case of Division
1), the child will be required to leave the lists as well.
E.
The Marshallate STRONGLY RECOMMENDS that children in Division 2 or 3 have a FRS
radio or other means of contacting the parent or responsible adult should the
need arise if they need to leave the list area.
F.
The parent/legal guardian present is to have the minor's authorization card in
his/her possession at all times.
G.
Parents/legal guardians are to behave in a courteous and responsible manner at
all times.
H.
Parents/legal guardians are strongly urged to become Warranted Youth Marshals so
that they can work closely with their minor in this activity.
I.
Parents are required to sign a waiver for their child at each individual fight
practice/event/activity in which they participate in youth combat.
XVIII.
AUTHORIZATION GUIDELINES
A.
Authorizations will be conducted in the manner detailed in the appropriate
division.
B.
If a previously authorized combatant fails to pass an authorization for the next
division, the authorizing marshals may allow him to continue to participate in
the previous division for the remainder of the event.
C.
A waiver for full contact competition must be on file with the Authorizations
Clerk before an authorization card will be issued. Authorizations are valid
until the minor moves up to the next division. Authorization Cards must be
presented to the marshal in charge or list official before any combat begins.
D.
For Youth combat neither the parent nor child need be a member of the SCA, Inc.
E.
Parents and youth fighters are responsible for keeping track of the rules and
any changes to the rules either via the Æstel, the web, or personal contact with
the marshals.
F.
Combatants need not be authorized to participate in official youth combat
activities, but the parent/ legal guardian must sign a waiver for full contact
competition.
XIX.
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
A.
The Warranted Youth Marshal is in charge of the field. The Marshallate will deal
with violations of the rules of combat, safety regulations, or other
inappropriate or unsafe action in an appropriate way.
B.
Disciplinary actions may include a simple caution, a warning, and removal from
the field, tournament or practice, or suspension of authorization.
C.
The Marshals may bar anyone who they feel is disruptive from the vicinity of the
list field.
D.
Any action that involves removing a participant or a parent/ legal guardian from
the field or practice must be reported by the marshal in charge and is subject
to review by, the Chancellor of Youth Combat and the Earl Marshal.
E.
Only the Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy, the Crown and the Earl
Marshal, may suspend the authorization of a participant.
F.
All injuries, in addition to being included in regular reporting, must be
reported by telephone or in person to the Chancellor of the Youth Martial
Academy and the Earl Marshal within 24 hours of the injury.
If neither can be reached, contact the Kingdom Seneschal directly.
G.
Marshals who fail to do their job or who create a dangerous situation on the
field will be subject to the same disciplinary actions as participants and
parents/legal guardians.
H.
Those who wish to appeal any Marshallate action must do so within the
established chain of command. That chain is
1.
Marshal in charge of the field/inspecting Marshal
2.
Marshal in charge of the tournament or practice
3.
Regional Deputy for Youth Combat
4.
Chancellor of the Youth Martial Academy
5.
Earl Marshal
6.
The Crown of AEthelmearc
XX.
DIVISIONAL DEFINITIONS
A.
Age Divisions
1.
Division 1 - youth combat participants ages 6 – 9 years
2.
Division 2 - youth combat participants age 10 – 13 years
3.
Division 3 - youth combat participants age 14 – 17 years
4.
Division 4 - rattan combat participants age 16 – 17 years
XXI.
INTERDIVISION COMBAT
A.
Tournament combat
between individuals in different (non-rattan) divisions can be allowed at the
discretion of the marshal and the parents of any combatant(s). Participants may
fight up or down ONE division as necessary but my not cross TWO divisions for
any reason.
B.
Youths of age 17 and below can practice
with any other youth, regardless of division as long as they are able to follow
those rules and have parental consent.
Practice bouts between divisions shall always use the weapon standards and
calibration of the lowest division involved.
C.
Interdivision melee practice
may occur at the discretion of the marshals and the parents of the combatants.
D.
There is to be no interdivision combat allowed between the Rattan Division and
any other division.
XXII.
DIVISION TRANSFER
A.
A division transfer authorization should be run in the same manner as any other
authorization, but the marshals should be focused on the new rules between
divisions.
B.
Should a combatant fail a division transfer authorization, he will be allowed to
participate in his previous division.
C.
The Marshallate recognizes that some minors will be very small or very large for
their age, or that there may be insufficient participants in a given division at
an event. These minors may, at the request of their parents/legal guardians, and
on a case-by-case basis determined by the Chancellor of the Youth Martial
Academy, or designate be moved up or down one division as appropriate.
XXIII.
ADULT TRAINING AT OFFICIAL SCA ACTIVITIES
A.
Adults in a training situation with youth combatants are not required to meet
the armor standards outlined in the "Divisional Standards". It is recommended
that trainers wear armor appropriate to the training.
B.
Parents can actively train their own children.
C.
Other than parents, only Warranted Youth Marshals with the parent’s permission
and supervision may train minors in divisions 1-3. Other conditions will apply
in the 16+ transitional division. See specific outlines in section titled
“AEthelmearc Youth Combat – 16+ Rattan Participation” later in this document.
XXIV.
DIVISIONAL STANDARDS
A.
Children’s Youth Combat Division: Age 6 – 9 Years
1.
Minimum Required Armor
a.
Head — The head must be covered by a helmet. Helms for youth combat include:
street hockey helmets, hockey helmets, baseball catcher’s masks with full head
protection, and fencing masks.
Period looking metal helms are also allowed. All helms must have grills or metal
mesh covering the face. No opening on the face shall be more than 1.5 inches.
The helm must be constructed of rigid material. Helms must have either a
chinstrap or a back strap to hold the helm securely. All helmets must fit.
b.
Neck —Minimum of light leather or ½ inch closed cell foam is required to cover
the neck, larynx and cervical vertebra. The minimum is a flap of medium leather
attached to the back of the helm.
c.
Torso — Must be covered by a minimum of medium weight shirt, tunic, bodice, etc.
Kidney, sternum and xiphoid protection is required, minimum of ½ inch closed
cell foam.
d.
Arms —Minimum of medium weight cloth must cover entire arm. Elbow joint
protection is required. Minimum of soft elbow pads meets this requirement.
Gloves that offer minimal padding are required for hands.
e.
Legs — Long pants, or sweats required. Minimum of medium weight cloth. Sturdy
shoes are required. No open-toed shoes or sandals. Knee joint protection is
required. Minimum of soft kneepads meets this requirement.
f.
Groin — Minimum protection is sports cup for boys, padded skirt or undergarment
for girls, light leather or equivalent.
2.
Weapon Standards
a.
All single-handed weapons
will be made of golf tube covered with ½ in. of closed cell foam extending 1.5
in. past the end of the tube. A second golf tube may be inserted inside the
first to reduce flexibility. Both ends of the weapon must be fiber taped closed.
Lanyards are REQUIRED on
single-handed weapons.
b.
All two handed weapons
will be made of golf tubes taped together with an overlap of up to three inches
covered with .5 in. of closed cell foam extending 1.5 in. past the end of the
tube. The ends of the golf tube must be fiber tape closed. On pole arms, the
blade length will not exceed 1/3 of the total length of the weapon.
c.
All thrusting weapons
must consist of the above listed construction plus a thrusting tip consisting of
closed cell foam and tape, loosely wrapped, a minimum 2.5 inches in diameter and
extending 2.5 inches past the golf tube. Tip should be sturdy enough to not
completely fold over upon impact. Weapon with thrusting tips shall have the
thrusting tips clearly marked with tape the same color as the striking edge.
LOW PROFILE THRUSTING TIPS ARE PROHIBITED!
d.
Weapons must be covered with single layer of loosely wrapped duct tape for
support.
e.
All weapons must have a clearly marked striking edge. The color of the striking
edge must be contrasting from the rest of the weapon.
f.
Weapons in this Division must be clearly recognized as golf tube. This shall be
accomplished by wrapping two strips of tape, the same color as the striking
edge, completely around the diameter of the weapon, 8 inches down from the tip.
g.
All weapons must be proportional to the size of the combatant. Mass weapons
should have no "mass" to them.
h.
Basket hilts are not required but are allowed. Metal basket hilts are prohibited
in this division.
i.
The maximum length of any weapon will be 5 feet.
3.
Shield Standards
a.
Shields may not be used as offensive weapons. No contact between shield and the
opponent’s body is allowed.
b.
Materials allowed are wood, plastic, aluminum or equivalent.
c.
All edges must be covered by tubing, leather, or foam. Pipe foam padding is
highly recommended. Low profile edging is not appropriate for Youth Combat
weapons.
d.
Shields shall be reasonable in size proportional to combatant.
e.
No bolts, wires or other objects may project more than 3/8 inches without
padding or tape.
4.
Blow Calibration
a.
Touch only. Any blows that touch the opponent’s body, unless rolled across a
weapon or shield, will be accepted. Marshals are expected to notify the
combatants if a shot comes off a shield or weapon. Groin shots, while legal, are
to be discouraged.
b.
The marshals shall notify the combatant when the blow force is harder than a
touch.
c.
All combatants are presumed to be wearing only a tunic.
d.
Combatants may call hold to discuss the force of blows, but only the marshal in
charge of the field may discount a blow.
e.
The marshal in charge of the field will discount blows that are harder than
positive force, but not hard enough to injure an opponent. This situation must
be discussed with both youth combatants.
f.
Any combatant using force sufficient to bruise or injure an opponent will, after
one warning, be removed from the field. This situation will be discussed with
the combatant and the parent. It is up to the marshal in charge to determine if
the combatant is to be allowed on the field that day.
5.
Target Area
a.
The body from 1 inch above the knee and up and 1 inch above the wrist and up is
legal target area for cutting and thrusting. Blows to the hand and the knee and
below are not counted.
b.
Thrusting is allowed to the torso, arms and legs only. Face thrusting is NOT
permitted in this division.
6.
Blow Acknowledgement.
a.
Any touch to the torso, or head scores a victory for the combatant striking the
blow. Any touch to the arms or legs causes the opponent to lose use of that
limb.
b.
Combatants can fight from their knees or with the off hand if they so choose.
c.
In melee when touched an opponent should fall down and
die defensively.
7.
Authorization Procedure
a.
There is only one authorization in this division and it will allow the combatant
to use any weapon.
b.
The marshal shall have the combatant strike him with a proper blow. The marshal
shall explain if the blow force is correct. If it is not the marshal shall
attempt to correct it. The authorization will not continue until the marshal is
satisfied with the blow force.
c.
An authorization bout will be fought. Blows will be called verbally. The
preferred opponent is someone in the same age division.
If none are available, then use an older youth combat opponent or a
Warranted Youth Marshal. Use of a
Warranted Youth Marshal as an opponent is a last resort.
d.
The combatant will pass unless he demonstrates willful disregard for the rules.
Neither a lack of ability to attack nor defend is a reason to fail an
authorization. Poor acknowledgement is not a reason to fail an authorization.
8.
Educational Goals
a.
Explanation and practice in use, function, and techniques of Youth combat
Weapons.
B.
Youth Combat Division: Age 10 – 13 Years
1.
Minimum Required Armor:
a.
Head — The head must be covered by a helmet. Helms for youth combat include:
street hockey helmets, lacrosse helmets, hockey helmets, baseball catcher’s
masks with full head protection, and fencing masks.
Period looking metal helms are also allowed and encouraged. All helms
must have grills or metal mesh covering the face. No opening on the face shall
be more than 1.5 inches. The back of the head and top of the neck must also be
covered. The minimum is a flap of heavy leather attached to the base of the
helm. The helm must be constructed or rigid material. Helms must have either a
chinstrap or a back strap to hold the helm securely. All helmets must fit.
b.
Neck —Minimum of Medium (8 to 10 oz.) leather is required to cover the neck,
larynx and cervical vertebra. The minimum is a flap of medium leather attached
to the back of the helm.
c.
Torso — Must be covered by medium weight shirt, tunic, bodice, etc. Kidney,
sternum and xiphoid protection is required, minimum of rigid material. For
females: As a girl matures, she must also have adequate breast protection, e.g.
quilted material tunic, light leather or equivalent. Shoulder protection is
recommended but not required.
d.
Arms - Minimum of medium weight cloth must cover entire arm. Hockey gloves with
rigid thumb or full gauntlets (plastic or metal) are required for hands outside
of basket hilts. Hands in a basket hilt shall use the minimum of a lightweight
glove and half gauntlet. The use of basket hilts is strongly encouraged. Elbow
joint protection is required. A minimum of hard (leather or plastic) over soft
(closed cell foam) elbow pads.
e.
Legs — Long pants of medium weight fabric, or sweats required. Sturdy shoes are
required. No open-toed shoes or sandals. Knee joint protection is required.
Minimum of hard (leather or plastic) over soft (closed cell foam) kneepads.
f.
Groin — Minimum protection is sports cup for boys, padded skirt or undergarment
for girls, light leather or equivalent.
2.
Weapon Standards:
a.
Schedule 40 PVC is considered the standard base material for youth combat
construction. The Marshallate will consider other equivalent materials for
construction (such as CPVC, Schedule 80 PVC, or Siloflex) on a case-by-case
basis. The standard non-thrusting type weapon must consist of:
a.
0.75 inch I.D. PVC (schedule 40) minimum;
1.0 inch I.D. maximum
b.
Both ends of PVC must be capped with PVC caps.
c.
Two layers of fiber-reinforced strapping tape spiral wrapped in opposite
directions.
d.
0.5 inch closed cell foam, minimum, extending the striking length of the youth
combat to 1.5 inches past tip of PVC. The foam must cover all sides of the PVC.
e.
Minimum one layer duct tape wrapped loosely.
b.
All weapons must have a clearly marked striking edge. The color of the striking
edge must be contrasting from the rest of the weapon.
c.
All thrusting weapons must consist of the above listed construction plus a
thrusting tip consisting of closed cell foam and tape, loosely wrapped, a
minimum 2.5 inches in diameter and extending 2.5 inches past PVC. Tip should be
sturdy enough to not completely fold over upon impact. Tips may use soft leather
or cloth to give support to avoid folding over. Weapons with thrusting tips
shall have the thrusting tips clearly marked with tape that is a different color
from the overall color of the weapon
and different from the color of the striking edge. LOW PROFILE
THRUSTING TIPS ARE PROHIBITED!
d.
Lanyards are REQUIRED on single-handed weapons.
e.
Construction of two-handed weapons shall follow single handed weapon guidelines
with the exception of 1 inch PVC (Schedule 40)
to be used as base material
for spears
f.
Size limits on two-handed weapons
a.
Spear - 7.5’
b.
Pole-arms - 6’ -
The striking edge shall not exceed 1/3 of the weapons total length.
c.
Great sword - 6’ - No more than 18" haft.
g.
All weapons must be proportional to the size of the combatant. Mass weapons
should have no real "mass" to them.
h.
Basket hilts are not required but are recommended and encouraged. Metal basket
hilts are prohibited in this division.
3.
Shield Standards
a.
Shields may not be used as offensive weapons. No contact between shield and the
opponent’s body is allowed.
b.
Materials allowed are wood, plastic, aluminum or equivalent.
c.
All edges must be covered by tubing, leather, or foam. Pipe foam padding is
highly recommended. Low profile edging is not appropriate for Youth Combat
weapons.
d.
Shields shall be reasonable in size proportional to combatant.
e.
No bolts, wires or other objects may project more than 3/8 inches without
padding or tape.
4.
Blow Calibration
a.
All cutting blows must have positive
force to count. Positive force is defined as a blow that does not stop at
the surface but need not have any power behind it.
b.
All thrusting blows will require touch only. Any unimpeded blow will be counted.
c.
All combatants are presumed to be wearing a quilted coif and tunic only.
d.
Any combatant using force sufficient to bruise or injure an opponent will, after
one warning, be removed from the field. This situation will be discussed with
the combatant and the parent. It is up to the marshal in charge to determine if
the combatant is to be allowed on the field that day.
e.
Face thrusts require only a touch. Any combatant using more than a touch to the
face will, after one warning, be removed from the field. Face thrusts with
greater than touch force will be discounted by the marshals.
5.
Target Area
a.
The body from 1 inch above the knee and up and 1 inch above the wrist and up is
legal target area for cutting and thrusting. Blows to the hand are not counted.
Face thrusting is permitted in this division.
Face thrusts are a kill. Face is defined
as the area between the chin and the middle of the forehead and between the ear
openings.
6.
Blow Acknowledgement
a.
Any blow striking from the shoulder to
one inch above the wrist
shall cause the loss of the arm.
b.
Any blow striking from 1 inch above the knee to the hips will cause the loss of
the leg. The combatant will then be allowed to fight from his knees.
c.
Any blow from a one handed weapon striking the hip will cause the loss of
movement. The combatant must sit to continue to fight. Any blow from a
two-handed weapon or mass weapon
striking the hip or shoulder is a kill.
d.
Any blow struck to the head or torso is a kill. The combatant is to fall to the
ground in the "die defensively posture"
7.
Authorization Procedure
a.
There are TWO authorization categories: single weapon and two-handed weapon.
Face thrusting is allowable in this division and as such will be included in
regular training and authorization practices. This standard of training is
expected to reflect training in the adult list.
b.
The marshal will quiz the combatant on legal target area, armor standards and
weapon standards.
c.
The marshal shall have the combatant strike him with a proper blow. The marshal
shall explain if the blow force is correct. If it is not the marshal shall
attempt to correct it. The authorization will not continue until the marshal is
satisfied with the blow force.
d.
An authorization bout will be fought. Blows will be called verbally. The
preferred opponent is someone in the same age division.
If none are available, then use an older
youth combat opponent.
e.
To authorize the combatant must demonstrate the ability to deliver and recognize
a proper blow. They must demonstrate a reasonable attempt at defense. Most
importantly, they must exhibit safe and courteous behavior throughout the bout.
8.
Educational Goals
a.
Refinement of techniques in defense, accuracy, and speed.
b.
Continued development in the graces of chivalric combat, honorable conduct, and
etiquette both on the field and off.
C.
Teen Youth Combat Division: Age 14 – 17 Years
1.
Minimum Required Armor
a.
Head — The head must be covered by a helmet. Helms for youth combat include:
street hockey helmets, lacrosse helmets, hockey helmets, baseball catcher’s
masks with full head protection, and fencing masks with padded hoods. Standard
SCA armored helmets are encouraged. All helms must have grills or metal mesh
covering the face. No opening on the face shall be more than 1.5 inches. The
back of the head and top of the neck must also be covered. The minimum is a flap
of heavy leather attached to the base of the helm. The helm must be constructed
or rigid material. Helms must have either a chinstrap or a back strap to hold
the helm securely. All helmets must fit.
b.
Neck —Minimum of Medium (8 to 10 oz.) leather is required to cover the neck,
larynx and cervical vertebra. The minimum is a flap of medium leather attached
to the back of the helm.
c.
Torso — Must be covered by medium weight fabric shirt, tunic, bodice, etc. The
kidneys, sternum and xiphoid must be covered by rigid material. Minimum medium
leather backed with padding or foam. Kydex, metal scale, plate etc. are
acceptable. Females must also have adequate breast protection, e.g. quilted
material tunic, light leather or equivalent.
d.
Arms —Minimum of medium weight cloth on the shoulders and armpits. Elbow joint
protection is required. A minimum of hard (leather or plastic) over soft (closed
cell foam) elbow pads. Roller blade or volleyball style pads with hard plastic
cup are acceptable.
e.
Hands — Hockey gloves with rigid thumb or full gauntlets (plastic or metal) are
required for hands outside of basket hilts. Hands in a basket hilt shall use the
minimum of a lightweight glove and demi-gauntlet. Street hockey and lacrosse
gloves are acceptable for use inside a basket hilt in this division.
Demi-gauntlets may be made of leather or metal.
f.
Legs — Long pants or sweats required. Minimum of medium weight cloth. Sturdy
shoes are required. No open-toed shoes or sandals. Knee joint protection is
required. Minimum of hard (medium leather) over soft kneepads. Roller blade or
volleyball style pads with hard plastic cup are acceptable.
g.
Groin — For boys minimum protection is sports cup or rigid pubic arch
protection. For girls, closed-cell foam or heavy leather or the equivalent is
required to cover the pubic bone area. The wearing of a male style athletic cup
by female fighters is prohibited
2.
Weapon Standards
a.
Schedule 40 PVC is considered the standard base material for youth combat
construction. The marshallate will consider other equivalent materials for
construction (such as CPVC, Schedule 80 PVC, or Siloflex) on a case-by-case
basis. The standard non-thrusting type weapon must consist of:
a.
0.75 inch I.D. PVC (schedule 40) minimum;
1.0 inch I.D. maximum.
b.
Both ends of PVC must be capped with PVC caps.
c.
Two layers of fiber-reinforced strapping tape, spiral wrapped in opposite
directions.
d.
0.5 inch closed cell foam, minimum, extending the striking length of the youth
combat to 1.5 inches past tip of PVC. The foam must cover the striking edge
only.
e.
Minimum one layer duct tape wrapped loosely.
b.
All weapons must have a clearly marked striking edge. The color of the striking
edge must be contrasting from the rest of the weapon.
c.
All thrusting weapons must consist of the above listed construction plus a
thrusting tip consisting of closed cell foam and tape, loosely wrapped, a
minimum 2.5 inches in diameter and extending 2.5 inches past PVC. Tip should be
sturdy enough to not completely fold over upon impact. Tips may use soft leather
or cloth to give support to avoid folding over. Weapon with thrusting tips shall
have the thrusting tips clearly marked with tape that is a distinctly different
from the overall color of the weapon
and distinctly different from the striking edge color.
LOW PROFILE THRUSTING TIPS ARE PROHIBITED!
d.
Lanyards are REQUIRED on single-handed weapons.
e.
Basket hilts are not required but are recommended and encouraged. Solidly
constructed metal basket hilts are permitted at the marshal’s discretion.
f.
Construction of two-handed weapons shall follow single-handed weapon guidelines
with the exception of 1 inch PVC (Schedule 40)
to be used as base material
for spears.
g.
Size limits on two-handed weapons
a.
Spear - 7.5’
b.
Pole-arms - 6’ - The striking edge
shall not exceed 1/3 of the weapons total length.
c.
Great sword — 6’ - No more than 18" haft.
3.
Shield Standards
a.
Shields may not be used as offensive weapons. No contact between shield and the
opponent’s body is allowed.
b.
Materials allowed are wood, plastic, aluminum or equivalent.
c.
All edges must be covered by tubing, leather, or foam. Pipe foam padding is
highly recommended. Low profile edging is not appropriate for Youth Combat
weapons.
d.
No bolts, wires or other objects may project more than 3/8 inches without
padding or tape.
e.
A shield basket, hockey glove or gauntlet is required under the shield.
4.
Blow Calibration
a.
Light force is required for all cutting shots. Light force is best described as
a small bounce of the weapon upon contact. Blows may reach armored combat force
without penalty.
b.
Positive force is required for thrusts to the body, arms or legs.
c.
Face thrusts require only a touch. Any combatant using more than a touch to the
face will, after one warning, be removed from the field. Face thrusts with
greater than touch force will be discounted by the marshals.
Face thrusts are a kill. Face is defined
as the area between the chin and the middle of the forehead and between the ear
openings.
d.
Groin shots, while legal, are to be discouraged.
e.
All combatants are presumed to be wearing mid-thigh leather gambeson and leather
skullcap.
f.
Any combatant using force sufficient to injure an opponent will, after one
warning, be removed from the field.
g.
The target area and blow acknowledgement will be the same as armored combat.
Refer to the current armored combat manual for definition.
5.
Authorization Procedure
a.
There are TWO authorization categories: single weapon and two-handed weapon.
Face thrusting is allowable in this division and as such will be included in
regular training and authorization practices. This standard of training is
expected to reflect training in the adult list.
b.
The marshal shall have the combatant strike him with a proper blow. The marshal
shall explain if the blow force is correct. If it is not the marshal shall
attempt to correct it. The authorization will not continue until the marshal is
satisfied with the blow force.
c.
An authorization bout will be fought. Blows will be called verbally. The
preferred opponent is someone in the same age division.
If none are available, then use an armored authorized youth combatant. If
none of either are available then a properly armored youth marshal should be
used.
d.
To authorize the combatant must demonstrate the ability to deliver and recognize
a proper blow. They must demonstrate a reasonable attempt at defense. They must
react correctly to pressure. They must exhibit safe and courteous behavior
throughout the bout.
6.
Educational Goals
a.
Continued development in the graces of chivalric combat, honorable conduct, and
etiquette both on the field and off.
D.
Melee Conventions
1.
Except as noted below all melee conventions follow armored combat conventions.
2.
Charges are restricted three running steps.
3.
Charges may only be used to gain ground.
4.
There must be a noticeable drop in speed before engaging combat.
5.
Running into your opponent to knock him down is prohibited.
6.
If any combatant loses a piece of required armor, a hold shall be called and
that fighter removed from the field or helped to repair. No holds called for
dropped weapons.
7.
No missile weapons of any type are allowed
8.
When a combatant is defeated in melee combat, he must die in a defensive manner
and safely exit the field with his weapon held above his head when acknowledged
by the marshal.
XXV.
Youth Rattan Combat Division: Age 16 – 17 Years
A.
Minimum Required Armor
1.
Armor standard will reflect current minimum adult conventions for the Kingdom of
AEthelmearc
2.
In all cases in which a youth engages an adult in armored the youth shall wear
on the front of their helm a square of tape or sticker blazoned with a capital
“Y” of a size clearly visible from a distance designating them as a youth.
B.
Weapon Standards
1.
Weapons standard will reflect current minimum adult conventions for the Kingdom
of AEthelmearc
C.
Shield Standards
1.
Shield standard will reflect current minimum adult conventions for the Kingdom
of AEthelmearc
D.
Blow Calibration
1.
Blow Calibration will reflect current minimum adult conventions for the Kingdom
of AEthelmearc
E.
Youth Rattan Marshals
1.
Marshal in Charge
– a fully warranted youth combat marshal with a completed background check must
be present at the list when 16+ rattan training is in progress.
2.
Transitional Marshal
– a warranted adult rattan marshal approved by the Youth Martial Chancellor to
work with the MIC and the Trainer.
3.
Trainer
– an authorized adult rattan fighter who has been approved in writing by the
Youth Martial Chancellor to work with the youths in the transitional 16+ program
a.
The MIC, the Transitional Marshal, and the approved Trainer are expected to work
as one body in the training of the 16+ combatants, always keeping in mind the 2
deep rule. If there are not enough unrelated adults the activity cannot take
place.
b.
NOT EVERY AUTHORIZED FIGHTER IS ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE WITH THE 16+ PROGRAM.
c.
PARENTS MAY ALWAYS TRAIN THEIR OWN CHILDREN.
d.
YOUTHS IN THE TRANSITIONAL RATTAN PROGRAM WILL NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES
PARTICIPATE IN ADULT COMBAT, SINGLE OR MELEE.
F.
Authorization Procedure
1.
There are TWO authorization categories: single weapon and two-handed weapon.
Face thrusting is allowable in this division and as such will be included in
regular training and authorization practices. This standard of training is
expected to reflect training in the adult list.
a.
The marshal shall have the combatant strike him with a proper blow. The marshal
shall explain if the blow force is correct. If it is not the marshal shall
attempt to correct it. The authorization will not continue until the marshal is
satisfied with the blow force.
b.
An authorization bout will be fought. Blows will be called verbally. The
preferred opponent is someone in the youth rattan combat division. If none are
available then a properly armored youth marshal who is authorized in heavy adult
rattan should be used.
c.
To authorize the combatant must demonstrate the ability to deliver and recognize
a proper blow. They must demonstrate a reasonable attempt at defense. They must
react correctly to pressure. They must exhibit safe and courteous behavior
throughout the bout.
G.
Educational Goals
1.
To provide a safe environment in which members 16-17 years of age may practice
with rattan weapons with marshal instruction and supervision.
2.
To provide members 16-17 years of age with a transitional stage between youth
(PVC) combat and adult (rattan) combat.
3.
Continued development in the graces of chivalric combat, honorable conduct, and
etiquette both on the field and off.
H.
Return to Non-Rattan Division
1.
Once a combatant has chosen to be trained in the transitional rattan division,
he/she may not return to the PVC divisions for except in the following
circumstance
a.
The combatant after trying the rattan transitional division for no more that 4
weeks (assuming 1 practice per week) has decided he/she is not yet prepared for
the heavier combat may return to the youth program (PVC) until their next birth
date or until age 18
b.
The YMIC and TRAINER for the local transitional division (in conjunction with
the PARENTS), after no more that 4 weeks (assuming 1 practice per week) feels
the combatant is not yet prepared for the heavier combat. They may return the
YOUTH to the Division 3 (PVC) program until their next birth date or until age
18.