Frequently Asked Questions



Section 1: Newcomers (to fencing, or YJF)


Q: What do I need to buy to participate?

A: Nothing really. You'll need your own athletic shoes (close-toed, no black soles, so as not to mark up the CRC floor). We will provide club equipment (jacket, knickers, glove, mask, weapon; underarm guard) at practices. We also currently have two floor sets for proper electric fencing (with enough foil lamês and body cords for quick rotations).


Q: Do I need any prior experience?

A: No, you do not need prior experience; most new members have none, and we have a large handful of people who are capable and who will be instructing at practice. That said, those who DO have prior experience are very welcome and highly encouraged to join us.


Q: What do you teach?

A: As of mid-Spring 2006, we've begun to teach all three weapons - for now, but emphasis remains on foil. While there can be limited excursion into the worlds of epee and sabre, instruction will be limited to basics of fencing, up through advanced foil work.


Q: To how many decimal places do you know pi off the top of your head?

A: I only know what's necessary to pass the class.


Q: How much will it cost me?

A: Relatively speaking, not so much. As mentioned above, we will provide you with equipment at practices (ie, you can't take it home with you [exception: proper checkout procedure], but we'll have it available and used at practice), so you aren't paying directly for that.
You are free to attend two practices, entirely obligation free ... after that, we'll start asking for $40* per semester dues. (*This figure is accurate for Fall 2007)


Q: What do I need to do to join?

A: First of all, we're glad you're interested, and look forward to having you. In order to join, you can either contact an officer, or preferably, just show up to practice. Before participating at all, we are required by the CRC to have you sign a Waiver form. Additionally, we will ask you for some basic information to be included in our Roster - which is to be turned into the CRC for demographic purposes (we, unfortunately, do not know any more about this, so please direct concerns to the appropriate CRC staff member). Forms should be available off of our homepage, in case you wish to read them ahead of time or fill them out. Dues need not be paid immediately, nor is attending a practice a binding contract.


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https://lists.gatech.edu/sympa/info/fencing

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Section 2: Members


Q: How can I pay dues?

A: One of two ways. One, make out a check for the dues amount; Pay to the order of Yellow Jacket Fencing. Or two, cash to any officer (though preferably Morgan or Johnathan. Or if you want to forfeit your dues to grocery money, give it to Paul).
Make sure we get your name and email, when giving us dues.
Make sure you know I'm joking: Paul is an upstanding citizen and a responsible officer. I can neither affirm nor deny accusations that Paul is some sort of superhero or at least part machine. Nor that he goes Bunburying as 'William,' on occasion.

Q: Where do my dues go?

A: Dues will be put to the purchase of new gear and the maintenance of old gear.
Or..if you give them to Paul....

Q: I'm interested in becoming an officer.

A: That wasn't technically a question, you know. Officer elections are held in the Spring semester. Please see the page on Officer positions, http://cyberbuzz.gatech.edu/fencing/pages/officers.html for more information.

Q: Where can I find out more about Yellow Jacket Fencing?

A: See our History [unlinked] page for more on this.



Section 3: Practices


Q: How do you teach?

A: Our more experienced fencers (primarily the officers and some senior members) demonstrate and guide through drills.
Drills can be done in large or small groups, or one-on-one. Or thereabouts.
Ideally, you learn something, then you practice it as much as possible. Ideally, to the tune of ...like.. 50 lunges a day. Ideally.
Drill. Check. Drill. Check.


Q: When are practices?

A: Practices are held on the 4th floor of the Campus Recreation Center (click here for map). Please refer to our main page or the Practices page for the most current information on scheduled practices. Generally speaking, they are held two times a week, during fall and spring semesters. Summer semesters tend to be much more touch-and-go. As such, please contact an officer to find out about summer practices.


Q: What should I bring to practice?

A: (Work in Progress)

FAQ is written by current and former Secretaries of YJF.


On the legal side of things, it must be pointed out that this information is for your convenience only. Please do not hold any of the officers, former officers, or the CRC accountable for any inaccuracies present on this page, especially but not limited to typographical errors and outdated information. In the event there is a problem, we apologize for any inconvenience. That said, as held by signature of the 'Seven Charges' form provided by the CRC for Sports Clubs, YJF Officers will never intentionally decieve you.
That aside, we hope this information is helpful and that it will encourage you to participate with us.