Oregon Lightsaber Combat

BOO-Yah!

Hey Don, bring your Clone helmet! I'll bring both of mine!

-Kyle

 

Youth and ambition is no substitute for age, wisdom and a complete lack of restraint for whacking children with bamboo.

 

I always liked this one, "Age and treachery will ALWAYS out-do youth and speed..." Or this one, "Your over-confidence is your weakness..." No, sorry Brooke, just rippin' on ya little bit...all in good fun...however, it is always best to let a sleeping dog lie...just a bit of advice...

Keyan

 

Well, it sounds like a fun time planned for Sunday. Unfortunately, I?m not sure I can attend, but I will see how things work out.

Don and I have been in discussions about making this saber/shinai thing an official OFF sanctioned event. Don believes that it would be great for the OFF to have such regular events. I have contacted our RSA, and she has said that it?s fine. We are hoping to eventually have an OFF banner that we can display during events (anyone want to lead this effort? We can always pass around a hat to collect money). Being an OFF event will also help us not get kicked out of parks, etc.

As Don is aware, I am concerned about possible injuries. The OFF and The FanForce is not setup with insurance, and when you wave long sticks at each other anything can happen. So it is very important that everyone who participates is aware that they are responsible for their own actions, and must take care of their own injuries (this is how the Release of Liability Form will play in). I have already observed that when in combat adrenaline is high, and aggression can follow. If this will be an OFF sanctioned event there must be clear rules that everyone follows. It is also important to maintain separation from the public. Having OFF members, and friends and family, involved is one thing, but having passers-by join in, willie-nillie, is not a good idea. If the public is interested they should get connected with the OFF and plan to attend a future event.

For members who can make it this Sunday, perhaps you can start to develop rules for participation, here are some of my ideas:

1. During every event, there shall be one OFF member who is responsible for the event. This member has the responsibility to communicate and maintain rules, and to maintain order and discipline. This member also has the power to end the event if things get carried away.

2. Participants must be at least 16 years old. Participants under the age of 18 year old must have parents written permission to participate.

3. Each bout must have three participants, two contestants and one referee. The referee is responsible for keeping score, and to maintain discipline. If contestants get too aggressive, or do not follow the rules, the referee can stop the bout.

4. I think having some kind of hand guards (gloves) would be a good idea. Goggles, and possibly head gear (hats) would be a good idea as well. Perhaps we could have Star Wars related gear?

5. Only those individuals recognized as participants before the event begins may participate. Individuals from the public (passers-by) can not participate. They must contact the OFF to request participation in FUTURE events.

6. There should be some minimum distance contestants must be from spectators. Any ideas?

7. No participants shall be rude, aggressive, etc. to the public. Bad language is not allowed (although I understand that words can slip during battle). If individuals from the public are rude or aggressive to participants, participants shall not be aggressive back, they should contact the proper authorities, move to a different location, or just end the event and leave the area peacefully.

8. No alcohol or drugs are allowed during saber/shinai events.

Well, these are my thoughts.
If I can?t make it this Sunday I hope everyone has fun.

 

Here's a few thoughts from me on this one. Crash is PRECISELY CORRECT. There MUST be a "referee" for EVERY pair/group of engaged combatants...these referees are generally referred to as "Marshals", and their authority is ABSOLUTE...
There is a common word that ANYONE can say/yell at ANY time to signify that they have noticed some form of safety concern, and that the fighters are to *IMMEDIATELY* halt and await further instructions from the referee. This term is "HOLD". There should also be what is commonly referred to as a knight marshal, or Combat Coordinator. My nomination for this person is Don. He appears to be best suited for this role, and is, at present, the only one properly equipped. I volunteer to assist you with anything that I can, Don, should you take on this role. (if it comes to fruition...)
Crash, you are absolutely right, no "bystanders" AT ALL, they MUST be a part of the group, have SIGNED the waiver, and demonstrated good character. There are those in this world of litigation-happy law lovers that seek out groups to sue for "personal injury", and so long as their "John Hancock" is on our waiver...we are safe.
I believe that those who wish to participate should take a few steps...
1. Make an effort to procure their own equipment where possible. Don is VERY generously letting others use his gear right now. Shinai are NOT expensive, and if someone needs one, lemme know, there is a store here in the Albany Mall that sells them. As I have said previously, fencing masks make EXCELLENT face/head/neck protection. Even though our form of martial art does not allow such blows, accidents DO happen. I would also advise the use of a rigid athletic cup....you need only learn this lesson ONCE. TRUST ME! *ALL* martial societies (SCA,ECS, etc..) DEMAND that fighters adhere to basic "armor standards" for their own protection.
2. I think we should develop an "Authorization" process, if you will, to teach fighters the basics, and ensure that they are safe to proceed. This enables us to gauge speed, torque, and technique. It also looks good on paper where legals are concerned.
3. Possibly look into developing a program of Master-Apprentice/Jedi-Padawan type thing. This encourages people to inter-connect, grow and develop as fighters, and just makes the overall experience a more solid and rewarding one.
The BIGGEST thing to remember is this. This is supposed to be FUN, FIRST.
Crash is also correct, again. Tensions/tempers/emotions can run very high during these types of activities. That is what makes them SO ideally suited for our corner of the world. A major part of swordsmanship for the Jedi and the Sith was CONTROL of your emotions, in one way, or the other. The DISCIPLINE of the art is what made them strong.
So, that's all I have on this one, for now. This sounds like a lot to do, but it really isn't. I am gladly volunteering to assist in any way I can. I still think that if he is willing, Don should be the first Combat Marshal, if he so desires...I happily volunteer to accept anyone interested in training *(although I think we should stick to the one apprentice per teacher rule, until we hammer out better details)*...I think I would like to work on the apprenticeship thing, unless I am the only one interested. It works well in so many other areas, under different titles, that I think it would work phenominally here...anyway...that's just my two cents, for what they are worth...

Keyan

 

Hahaha, you go ahead and make your jokes but I stick by my words.

 

WHAT?! You're not the boss of space, Frylock... so stop actin like ya are.
[image=http://www.aquateencentral.com/images/characters/err.jpg]

 

THE NEXT FEW COMMENTS ARE ONLY MY OPINION, NOTHING MORE....please regard them as such, and afterward, I'll go back to normal!

OK, OK....it appears that there are some emotions already riding a little high...on this whole "whupping people's butts" thing...enough is enough. I will offer only this bit of very serious council and clarification. What I said above about sleeping dogs...what I meant was: Placing yourself in the line of fire for a predatory attack seemed somewhat reckless to me...There is NO reason for worrying about whether or not you are able to "whup someone's butt", or not, nor is there any good reason(IMHO)to publicly declare such. As one of my MOST trusted teachers/sparring partners once told me..."Your blade is only as sharp as the stone that sharpened it..."
Loosely translated, in our own minds, we may THINK that we are completely invincible, and by our own standards, we may be, but to openly invite someone to cut us off at the knees by making a rash statement only OPENLY invites retaliation, as you can plainly see. In this new world in which we live, there are sure to be many opportunities to "put your money where your mouth is", so to speak. Unfortunately, the ones saying that are generally sharks that already have done their research, and are SURE of their victory, NO ONE needs to learn this the hard way...
I apologize to you, Brook, if my ribbing you offended you in some way, or if you felt the need to defend yourself in some way, I meant your pride no harm, as I indicated in my post by saying: "all in good fun", so let's all just drop the whole "butt-whupping" smack-talk, and get back down to par. This is a GAME, after all, and NOTHING is worth anyone getting their dander up...NOTHING...(or was this whole silly thing just TOTALLY misunderstood from the get go, and you were just kidding? If that was the case, I apologize for misunderstanding you...Jeez, what a BIZARRE little world we live in!)

Keyan

 

To make it totally clear so that there are no other conflicts, I didn't mean for anything I posted to be taken seriously. You guys who've been here for a while know that I am a light-hearted poster and am not looking for any trouble and am not trying to challenge anyone or appear to be greater than any of you. MasterKeyan and I have PM'd each other, and if anyone else thinks that I was serious or looking to cause trouble, I apologize. That was never my intent. I still consider myself to be a good swordsman. I am self-trained so your methods or rules of swordplay are different to me, but I'm not looking to clash with any of you guys and gals. Peace to all and I'm going to sleep.

 

I think I better take a sec here and back Brook up a bit, and then I'll be done...I think that perhaps there was a A WHOLE BUNCH of miscommunication, and a portion of it may have been on my part...NO feelings were ever meant to be hurt here. I think that I took Brook's remark a little too seriously...sorry, dude...I sometimes forget that boards do not relay emotions, but mere messages. So, my apologies to Brook if I was out of line...

Keyan

 

Hey Don,

So sorry that this didn't work out today. But all of us (AramyStrael, Xeco, Chris from DST and myself) actually did show up (albeit an hour late) and practiced for a couple of hours. It was fun, be we did miss not having you there, too.

One suggestion that came out was the possibility of an OFF Phone list that would only be accessible to the members.

-Kyle

 

I think my feelings can be best expressed in the following way:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7W7o-q-1DZE

 

mmmmm k....interesting...

 

HA HA HA!! Nice reaction

 

Hey to all those interested. Maybe we can schedule another outing to a park before the September meeting?

-Kyle

 

Say the word, Boss.... I'll fit it into my schedule. That was a lot of fun!

 

Sorry for the lack of reply. I finally got my internet back up and running. I was there from just before one to one thirty. I am bummed I missed out, but hey communication being what it is, things happen. I am moved for the most part so if we want to do this again before the meeting that would be great. I haven't read all the posts yet, but of what I saw skimming, I would like to have a designated MARSHALL (with a yellow and black striped staff) and a good freeze word is "hold." Just say it if something happens and all combat stops until the problem is properly dealt with.

Anytime other than before 3:00 on saturday is cool with me... Let me know.

Oh by the way, nice park huh?

 

Hey Don,

PM me your number and hopefully I can start a contact list (at least for the Lightsaber Combat if not for the whole OFF).

Yes, the park was great. I hope I can remember the moves we did practice . Looking forward to bringing it - I bought gloves, too!

-Kyle

 

For #1 If I attend I will volunteer for the charge position, but I would like to have the Marshall (referee) be rotating.

#2 I like the 16 year old cut. For those UNDER 18 I MUST ASK FOR YOUR PARENTS TO PERSONALLY SIGN THE RELEASE FORM. I would like to keep the cut off @ 16 any younger can have too many repercussions. We can however do a younglings class or something.

#3 I think that at first the Marshall will be decided before a single blow is exchanged. As far as the power of the Marshall, that should go without saying.

#4 I would like to require gloves and comfortable work out clothing, I leave the headgear and extra armor up to personal choice.

#5 I agree completely!!

#6 This can be established baesd upon where we are at.

#7 Dito

#8 There will be ZERO tolerance for anyone who is inebriated and attempting to participate. Bottom Line. I won't stand for that. Alcohol, drugs, and swords are not good bed fellows.

 

Hey Don,
This seems to be a near mirror reflection of SCA combat rules, almost down to the letter. Here is my suggestion. Since the SCA has a 40 year history of safe combat, where the only injuries that I am aware of are SELF INDUCED, I would suggest that we take a VERY close look a their combat standards, and see if some of them are adaptable to our cause. I think that so long as we keep things in perspective, that their should be no issues. If there is a WRITTEN combatants' log, that contains not only the waivers, but a paper copy of the rules, there will never be any reason for confusion. I have obtained the SCA Marshallate Handbook, and can get that project rolling and submit it to you for review, if you like...I think it would completely minimize any confusion there may be...and protect the group legally, etc. Your call, thought I would make the offer...

http://www.sca.org/officers/marshal/combat/armored/marshal_handbook.pdf

Thought this might be useful, and though much of it does not apply, there is enough of it that does, and retrofitting this should not be a difficult task. I would be glad to help in any way I can!

Keyan

 

I just got a copy of the waiver from the Orange County Star Wars Society, so hopefully I can start putting one together.

Don

 

I finished the Liability waiver, I am just waiting on RSA approval and we can get this thing seriously rolling.

 

I read the copy you sent me and it sounds good. We just wait for the RSA approval, and any changes/additions they may have.

 

Without further adieu (french spelling?)... the RSA's have approved the liability waiver and we are just about set to get the ball rolling on this once we can nail down times to meet when the weather agrees.

Here is the form...hopefully I will bring some copies to the meeting on the 4th of Feb.


Acknowledgement of Oregon Fan Force Member, Express
Assumption of Risk, and Release of Liability


I understand that during my participation in the Oregon Fan Force (OFF), I may be exposed to a variety of hazards and risks, both foreseen and unforeseen, which are inherent with the participation in club events and outings and cannot be eliminated without destroying the unique character of the club. These inherent risks include, but are not limited to, the dangers of serious personal injury, property damage, and death from exposure to the hazards of travel and the OFF has not tried to contradict or minimize my understanding of these risks. I know that injuries and damages can occur by natural causes or activities or otherpersons, animals, club members, club officers, and assistants and third parties, either as a result of negligence or because of other reasons. I understand that risks of such injuries and damages are involved with participating in the OFF and I appreciate that I may have to exercise extra care for my own person and for others around me in the face of such hazards. I further understand that there may not be rescue or medical facilities or expertise necessary to deal with the injuries and damages to which I may be exposed to while participating in the OFF.

In consideration for my acceptance in OFF, and the services and amenities to be provided by OFF in connection with being a member of the club, I confirm my understanding that:

- I have read the club charter, rules and conditions applicables to the club made available to me,

- I am personally responsible for all risks associated with travel and from club events,

- This agreement is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by law. If any provision or any part of any provision of the Agreement is held invalid or legally unenforceable for any reason, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby and shall remain valid and fully enforceable.

- To the fullest extent allowed by law, I agree to waive, discharge claims, and release from liability the Oregon Fan Force, it's officers, directors, agents, and leasders from any and all liability on account of, or in any way resulting from injuries and damages, even if caused by negligence of the Oregon Fan Force, it's officers, directors, agents, or leaders, in any way connected with participation in the club. I further agree to hold harmless the Oregon Fan Force, it's officers, directors, agents, and leaders from any claims, damages, injuries, or losses caused by my own negligence while a participant in the club. I understand and intend that this assumption of risk and release is binding upon my hears, executors, administrators, and assigns, and includes any minors accompanying me as a member of the club.

- I have read this document in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such injuries and damages and not withstanding such risks, I agree to participate in the Oregon Fan Force and it's events.

 

Tossing in a few things, guys.

Gloves = must. We do our classes without gloves, and let me tell you.... use gloves. Your knuckles will thank you in the long run.


Be safe and have fun!