This FAQ is a work in progress.  Items will be modified as questions come in.

Welcome to the Lincoln Fencing Club.  Our mission is to provide a safe, family-centered, personally-challenging fencing program which develops people as well as fencers.  

LFC believes in:

	Safety - First and foremost
	Respect - Ourselves and those around us
	Responsibility - For our own actions, on and off the fencing strip
	Inclusiveness - Everyone is welcome

Fencing is for everyone.

	Youth - Seven and older, who wish to learn a new sport and compete recreationally
	Adults - Who want to learn a new sport for social, fitness, or recreational purposes
	Experienced Fencers - Who want to reach their maximum potential competitively

We welcome new fencers of all ages.  Anyone interested in joining can attend any of our sessions to observe fencing and ask specific questions.

If you're interested in just trying out fencing, but worry about expensive equipment, relax.  LFC provides all equipment for those who wish it.  While we do encourage fencers to buy their own equipment as they continue the sport, we will provide equipment for as long as a fencer needs it.  

Please feel free to e-mail the webmaster if you'd like more specifics or have questions. You can see some more information in the Class Information, detailing class times and fees.  If the webmaster doesn't have the information, your message will be forwarded to someone who will.  You can also call us at 402-420-7688.

After any observation, if you wish to become a member and participate in the sport, we require several things.  The first is the filling out of a registration form.  This is done yearly, to make sure that all information is current. 

As a new fencer, after you fill out the registration form, you will be contacted by the person in charge of registrations.  You will then be mailed a Waiver of Liability and Consent for Medical Treatment forms, to be filled out, signed, and mailed back.  You will also be provided more information on fees, and payment thereof.

 

Fencing.  That's that thing you see in Zorro, right?

Not really.  That is stage combat.  Every move is carefully choreographed and rehearsed.  It looks wonderful on the screen, but it isn't how people fought in the past, and it isn't how fencing works now.  Though there are days we wish we had a chandelier to swing from, just because it would be cool.

 

So, what IS fencing?

Fencing is a sport.  Born in the days of blood combat, it is now a sport with rules, scoring methods, and special equipment.  

 

Sounds expensive.  Can I afford to try it?

It can be, and yes, you can afford it.  Equipment prices vary depending on what you want, what quality, etc.  Many fencers choose to purchase their own equipment.  However, LFC has equipment for use to its members.  You can show up and suit up.

 

So, how much does this cost?

$50 a month, plus a discount for additional family members, and for choosing direct deposit of fees.  This is more than reasonable compared to most health clubs.

 

Fencing seems to involve poking people with swords.  Is it really safe?

Yes.  We take our safety very seriously.  While the sport originated from honor duels to the death, we have moved very far away from that.  Our weapons are not sharp and the tips are designed to register a score on a machine, not to puncture an opponent.  All fencers must wear a fencing mask, designed to protect the head and face from injury.  Women fencers wear a plastic chest protector beneath their fencing jacket.  The jackets themselves are designed to withstand punctures.

 

So, I won't get hurt at all?

All sports have injuries, but you shouldn't have any serious injuries.  The major ailment of fencers is bruising.  As protected as we are, and as careful as we try to be, we are jabbing at each other with blunt objects.  Most of the bruises are minor.  Other injuries are those associated with any activity.  It is advisable to stretch properly, and to know your body's limits, and abide by them.  Fencing is not that hard on joints, as opposed to the twisting found in basketball and other sports, but care should always be taken, just as in all sports.

 

It's snowing outside.  Do we fence?

The rule of thumb is if the Lincoln Public Schools are closed, there is no fencing.

 

I'm interested, but want to take a look first.  Is this possible?

Yes!  You can stop by any time during open fencing.  7:30 on Mondays and Wednesdays is probably best, as our head coach is usually available.  We'll answer questions and, if you're interested, suit you up and let you try it.

 

Is there fencing in Omaha?

Yes.  You can check out their website, omahafencingclub.org. 

 

I have a question but you don't have it here.

E-mail the webmaster.  Frequently Asked Questions thrive on having questions asked.  The webmaster will do her best to answer the question, or find someone who can.  Questions asked may end up on the FAQ later.