CCSF Fencing - Foil Class

Beginning Foil Fencing P.E. 513a An Introduction to Foil Fencing
The class starts with an introduction to footwork and balance, and progresses to the practical application of theory such as attacks and parries. By mid-term, the rules of bouting are incorporated to the theory and practice of fencing. The semester comes full circle with the introduction to tactical application of all topics covered during the semester. The foil is actually descendent of the short sword or court sword. It is a thrusting weapon that requires the fencer to touch (hit) a defined target only with the point of the weapon, and as well defend their own target against all other attacks by parrying or other means. The foil was originally was a practice where the tip was buttoned to prevent injury. The word foil suggests, that we are acting to thwart or frustrate another from being successful, or as in Shakespeare, "Laertes is a foil to Hamlet," meaning that one enhances another by contrasting themselves to someone else. This is important because the nature of fencing is competitive and confrontational. But don't misunderstand competitiveness as rivalry, but rather as way to making oneself equal to their opponent or surpassing oneself. The fencing class requires one to be both process and goal oriented. This class is designed to introduce, develop, and apply the skills and knowledge of fencing at the most basic level. No former experience is required. The progression of skills begins with footwork and conditioning. Like any physical activity, muscles that are not used or are less active need to be conditioned for strength and the prevention of injury. Whatever the fascination, be it the romantic, dramatic, or the physical conditioning, the foil class will develop some insight on your own ability to concentrate under a combative situation. It will test your ability to think, intuit, and act.			The college will issue you a jacket for the semester, but there is a sixty-dollar deposit. You will get your deposit back at the end of the semester once you have returned you jacket. Masks and foils will be issued at the beginning of the class. They will be returned at the end of class. The masks and foils are not to be taken home. Take your jackets home and wash them for the next class. Wear a t-shirt underneath the jacket. Cotton gym pants and the non-marking tennis shoe are required. Do not wear jeans to the class. Buy your own glove when we begin to use the foil. Grading Your grade will consist of 25% mid term, 25% final, 25% skills, and 25% attendance. You will be allowed one absence. The class meets once a week; attendance is important for the acquisition of skills and the introduction to new material for each class. Learning foil fencing is both process and goal orientated. The object then, is to achieve a skill and acquire a knowledge that would allow you to understand basic foil. Safety The nature of foil is obvious, so dangerous play is not tolerated. The emphasis is on control, style, and function. Fencing is competitive and confrontational, but don't misunderstand competitiveness as aggression. It is my philosophy, that by control and discipline, one can meet his opponent or at least surpass oneself.