Class Schedule
The How of Long Sword
Saturday 11:00am-12:30pm, FSV Kew
Sunday 11:00am-12:30pm, FSV Footscray
In the How of Long Sword class, students will receive instruction on how to perform the actions described in Liechtenauer's zedel and the glosses.
This class focuses on correct mechanics, body structure and technique implementation; providing a how to instruction of Long Sword fencing. Students can expect this class to consist of choreographed drills; both solo and paired with set roles and focused instruction and correction of how they are performing specific actions.
New fencers to Long Sword are advised to start with this class, but all students will benefit from it.
This class provides sufficient standalone instruction for students seeking to learn fencing with the Long Sword, but with less interest in sparring with the long sword.
The Why of Long Sword
Saturday 12:30pm-2:00pm, FSV Kew
Sunday 12:30pm-2:00pm, FSV Footscray
In the Why of Long Sword class, students will be provided with explanations about the underlying reasoning for why we use and perform certain actions or concepts in Liechtenauer's zedel.
Students will then be encouraged to participate in guided experimentation of the given topic/s so that they can explore the topic individually, with other students, or one-on-one or in small groups with the participating instructor/s.
Considerable freedom will be provided to participating students, so long as they engage with the class' topic. This should not be seen as a "free sparring" class, although students may use sparring as a method of exploration should they so choose.
This class is generally better suited to more experienced fencers, as it moves through the various moves more quickly than the How of Long Sword class. Newer fencers should be aware that this class moves faster with less guidance than the How of Long Sword class.
FSVW: Women's Longsword
FSVW is FSV's women's longsword class, designed and run by women training at FSV to address the specific needs of women learning longsword.
To provide continuity of learning for those attending multiple classes, each week the FSVW class will follow the same topic area as the Mechanics of Longsword classes.
FSVW classes are open to female identifying students of any experience level. Beginner fencers are paired with more experience fencers to provide coaching throughout the class. Classes have been designed so that fencers can participate at their own pace and comfort level. Attendees are encouraged to participate in other FSV classes.
German Duelling Swords -
These classes explore the use of single handed swords used in gentlemanly duels in the 18th and 19th centuries. Lessons are delivered as two consecutive classes, each focusing on a different weapon.
Each of the two classes will conclude with time for free play, when students can further explore concepts or engage in sparring with either weapon system.
Classes are designed to be welcoming and accommodating to aspiring duellists of all experience levels.
Hiebfechten (Sabre)
Thursday 7:00pm-8:30pm, FSV Footscray
Explores the use of the sabre, a favourite weapon of cavalrymen. We teach from the tradition of the German Berliner Turnschule, a style focused on a dynamic flow of attacking cuts and parries.
Stossefechten (Smallsword)
Thursday 8:30pm-10:00pm, FSV Footscray
Explores the use of the smallsword, a precise and refined weapon for settling affairs of honour. We work from the German Kreussler tradition, a system designed with safety and control of the duel in mind.