All Fencers Please Note!
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en
All Fencers Please Note!
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March 1938
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3
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3
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7
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7
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ALL FENCERS PLEASE NOTE!
By John R. Huffman
Editor's Note: Any one who has followed fencing does not need an introduction to John Huffman. But it is not as a great fencer that we here present him... we wish to introduce you to his non-competitive success, which only those who have the good fortune to cross blades with him or watch him fence can appreciate. Huffman has achieved the enviable reputation of being a model sportsman both on and off the strip, as well as being one of the neatest fencers in the game.
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As Chairman of the A.F.L.A. Bout Committee, I have received from time to time several comments from spectators and fencers which I feel should be brought to the attention of all competitors and officials. Since our sport is growing rapidly, and our spectators becoming more and more fencing conscious, I feel the time has come to heed some of their suggestions.
First, let me mention equipment. The Rules Book sets forth the regulations regarding the uniform and other equipment. I want only to enlarge on these rules in connection with the condition of your outfit. In passing, however, I should remind you that black trousers are taboo in all weapons. My main interest is the delicate question of soiled and/or tattered uniforms, delapidated gloves, antiquated masks, and shoes long past their usefulness. Believe me, when I say that recently several spectators have commented unfavorably upon the sloppy appearance of a regrettably large number of competitors. Let us heed this request of our public before it become a demand. I am sure none of us wish to bring adverse criticism to our sport. There are, in addition, invisible assets to clean well-fitting uniforms which aid very markedly one's fencing ability—if only the satisfaction of a good personal appearance on the strip.
Again, from the view point of our guests, there is the code of courtesy to one's opponent while on the strip which enhances materially the glorious spectacle of a well fought match. No matter how much we may hate our opponent in actual combat, there still remains this courtesy due him in moments of non-combat while on the strip, be he friend or mortal enemy. Let me assure you this is a vital factor which must continue to make our sport the aristocratic one it has been for centuries. First, there is the salute at the start of the bout which should never be omitted, and which should include the officials and the audience. During the actual bout, regardless of cause, a competitor should never turn his back on his opponent intentionally. If your opponent is disarmed and his blade drops to the floor, you should attempt to assist him in reclaiming it and not appear to have no interest in whether he gets it back or not. At the completion of a bout, a salute is in order again, although custom has gradually eliminated this. But, a warm handclasp, a smile and a pleasant word of consolation or praise should never be forgotten. If one is the loser, a smile helps to throw off the effect of defeat in preparation for combats yet to come. There are other courtesies inherent to the sport. I am only mentioning those called particularly to my attention.
Turning now to the long-suffering little-liked gentry, the officials, who have offered their services so nobly this year, I hesitate to make their lot harder. Again, I merely offer criticism which has reached me and one which affects my own reactions. A judge or director should never be seated during the exercise of his duties. To remain seated creates an impression of laxness not only in the minds of the contestants but also in the minds of the spectators. The question of smoking while judging or directing has also been criticized, particularly in meets where a substantial audience is in attendance. I think we could easily refrain from smoking until a prearranged intermission is declared, say at the completion of half the bouts on a strip.
I should like to include a few announcements. Please get the entries in a week in advance to permit your committee to start the meets on time. This rule can be and may still be enforced. The Board of Governors has ruled that all senior Epee competitions except the Three-Weapon Team Championship shall be with the electrical epee. This will not apply to the Outdoor Championships.
Finally, may I remind you that I represent your committee in your sport and any suggestions or criticisms on the conduction of the meets will always be most welcome.
