Fallhoffer Team Tournament September 28, 2024

We at the New Jersey Historical Fencing Association would like to invite you and your club to our team tournament, Fallhoffer 2!  

• Registration link
• The tournament will be at the Vernon PAL in Vernon, NJ on Saturday, 9/28/24 from 10 Am -3 4pm. 
• At this tournament, we will focus solely on the Longsword.  Exchanges will be self-judged by the two fencers engaged in a match.  A ring boss will preside over the matches to ensure things run smoothly, and to communicate scoring as decided by the fencers.
• This will be a team event.  Participants must register with a team of 3-5 individuals.  Fencing will be done between two individuals, as is typical, but scoring will be tracked as a team.  There is no scoring benefit for larger or smaller teams- scoring will be scaled.
• There will be prizes!

Our video explaining the structure and focus of the tournament can be found here.

Our goal in hosting this event is twofold.

 First, tournament play is a vital component in the study of HEMA for several reasons:

• Pressure Testing: Tournaments provide a unique crucible compared to regular sparring. The pressure of competition exposes weaknesses in technique, strategy, and mental fortitude that might not be apparent in a more cooperative environment. This pressure serves as a valuable "litmus test" for a fencer's true understanding of the Art.
• Engaging with Historical Context: Historical fencing manuals often discuss techniques and strategies applicable to various scenarios, some of which are directly mirrored in tournament rules and regulations. Tournaments provide a platform to not only practice these historical concepts but also grapple with the limitations and adaptations they might require in a competitive setting.
• Upsetting Comfort Zones: Just as historical fencers had to adapt their skills to different contexts, tournaments push us outside our comfort zones. This constant challenge fosters a deeper understanding of the Art and its adaptability to various situations.
• Learning from Others: Tournaments offer a chance to observe the strengths and weaknesses of other fencers, both teammates and opponents. Analyzing these encounters provides valuable insights into different approaches and expands your own fencing knowledge.  

In essence, tournaments are not just about winning, but about using the competitive environment to learn, grow, and refine your understanding of HEMA.

Second, it's great approach to encourage participation in HEMA tournaments! Here's why it works:

• Teamwork: By fencing as a team, newcomers benefit from the experience and support of veterans. This can make the entire competition experience less intimidating.  
• Shared Training: Having a team goal (doing well in Fallhoffer) incentivizes fencers to train together. This not only improves their skills but also fosters camaraderie.  
• Support Network: During the competition, teammates can offer encouragement, analyze tactics, and generally create a more positive and supportive environment for everyone.

This team format is a fantastic way to break down barriers for newer fencers and create a more welcoming atmosphere in HEMA events.
 

Overall, we want this event to be one that everyone looks back on fondly (and hopefully, looks forward to again).  Even in the face of competition, we want to build a culture of good-natured, humble students of the Art who join together to challenge, support, and encourage one another, wherever they are in their journey.  We would love for you to join us in this venture.