What is Fencing?
Fencing is an olympic style sport of using a bladed "weapon" to "stab" or slash your opponent to score points.
There are three weapons in fencing. See below for their differences:
What are the three weapons of fencing?
The three weapons of fencing are Epee, Foil, and Saber.
At their most basic levels, these are the differences:
-Epee: A point thrust weapon with an unrestricted target
-Foil: A point thrust weapon with only the torso as legal target
-Saber: A slashing weapon with the waist and above as legal target
What safety measures are there?
In fencing, the weapons are not sharp. Additionally, everyone wears a padded jacket, and a metal mask to protect their face.
Do I need to know how to fence to join?
Absolutely not. Bowdoin Fencing is open to all, no matter your level of experience.
We will teach everyone the basics, and how to use each weapon.
What does the commitment look like?
Fencing is a club sport that holds three two hour practices a week, along with team dinner in tandem with practice.
Practice attendance is extremely flexible, basically just come when you can.
Do I need my own gear?
No you do not. All necessary gear is provided by the club.
If you do already have your own gear, you are welcome to bring and use it.
What should I bring to practice?
Besides yourself, we ask that you wear athletic clothing, including bottoms that cover your legs (sweatpants, leggings, etc.), and a water bottle.
Do we compete?
We travel as a club to between 5 and 10 competitions a year. These are all out of state, often in Massachusetts. Sometimes we stay in a hotel the night before. All travel expenses are paid for by Bowdoin, including food and hotel costs.
Competition attendance is entirely optional, but highly encouraged as they are extremely fun and allow for a unique chance to learn and grow.
