Fencing:Authorization

Appendix - Authorization

These guidelines outline the basic items to check for in an authorization. Please refer to your kingdom's rules for any additional specific instructions.

1. Authorization is an assessment of a combatant; if they pass and become authorized, they are allowed to participate in tournaments and melees.
2. Each kingdom sets their own rules regarding what authorizations are necessary. Some kingdoms, for example, have a single authorization for many weapons forms (not including spear, which requires a separate authorization), while others have separate authorizations for each weapons form. The number and level of marshals performing the authorizations differs between kingdoms. Refer to your kingdom's rules for these details.
3. Authorizing a candidate revolves around safety - can the combatant comport themselves in such a manner that they are unlikely to injure themselves or others. Additional requirements may be placed by each kingdom. Assessing a candidate for safety includes the following:
   1. Does the candidate know and understand the rules for what armor they should wear, and what makes it allowed / disallowed under our rules?
   2. Does the candidate understand what weapon(s) they may wield, and what weapons they may face in combat?
   3. Can the candidate move without tripping on uneven ground, or slipping on a smooth surface? While it is not usually possible or practical to test the candidate on multiple ground types, the marshals should rely on their experience to assess the candidate based on what they see during the authorization.
   4. Can the candidate execute the allowed blows (thrusts, cuts, percussive blows, as appropriate for the weapon and category they are authorizing for) without harming themselves, their opponents, or others?
   5. Does the candidate remain safe (both their own safety and in terms of not posing a hazard to their opponent or others) in various combat conditions, including an opponent who is retreating, rapidly advancing, or who stops during a retreat?
   6. Does the candidate know where to ask their questions if they should run into any questions regarding an aspect of SCA combat?
4. Please note that special considerations may be made for candidates with unique needs. All candidates must be able to comport themselves with safety for themselves and others, but this may take a different form for different candidates. For example, a candidate in a wheelchair may not be able to move laterally but may demonstrate the ability to curl defensively rather than stepping out of the way when necessary.