Global:Introduction to SCA martial activities - For newcomers

For newcomers - ("How do I participate in martial activities at an SCA event?")

1. When you arrive on site, you will need to find the "Gate". This is where you complete sign-in requirements to attend the event or practice, and sometimes also register for specific competitions. This typically includes:
   1. Paying for attending the event (if applicable)
   2. Signing any required waivers, or showing proof that you have one on file.
      1. • For events in the United States:
      • • your proof of current membership means that you have an active SCA general waiver on file.
        • you will also need to sign an equestrian waiver for events or practices with horses and other equines.
      • For events in kingdoms outside of the United States, waiver requirements vary.
   3. Complete any additional required documents, such as a medical authorization, for people under the legal age of majority.
2. If you have questions about martial activities, including the format of the practice or competition, the marshal-in-charge is the person to contact.
3. For most tournaments, you will need to register to compete. This is commonly referred to as "signing in at the Lists table".
4. Before engaging in any martial activity, your weapons, equipment and protective gear must be inspected and approved by a marshal warranted for this purpose and activity. This is commonly referred to "armor and weapons inspection".
5. Many martial activities require an authorization to compete or participate at events. You will need to show proof of your authorization before being allowed to compete or participate in that activity. This proof could be a physical authorization card, or provided electronically, depending on your kingdom's process. Note: authorizations are not needed to participate at official practices or in classes.
6. For all activities, follow the marshals' instructions. They will direct the combat or martial activities. For competitions, heralds will often announce the order of competition and introduce people on the tournament field. Lists officers are people who record and track the results.
7. Interkingdom events can have specific equipment, protective gear, inspection, or competition rules that you must follow. These should be posted on the event webpage and/or found in the event's guide book.
8. If you are visiting another kingdom, you must meet that kingdom's standards for protective gear, weapons, equipment, and conventions set out in their rules in order to participate in that kingdom's activities.