KdF Fencing fosters a safe, respectful environment for learning. Our Code of Conduct ensures a positive training atmosphere and strong community.

I. Safety 

• Paramount Concern: The safety of all members is the highest priority in all KdF Fencing activities. Reckless or dangerous behavior will not be tolerated.
• Equipment Standards: All members must utilize appropriate safety equipment as mandated by the instructors and adhere to the equipment guidelines set forth by the school. Equipment must be in good working order and inspected regularly.
• Control and Awareness: Maintain control of your weapon and body at all times. Be aware of your surroundings and the proximity of other members during drills and sparring.
• Right of Refusal: Any member has the right to refuse a drill or bout if they feel unsafe for any reason, without fear of judgment or reprisal.
• Reporting: Immediately report any injuries, unsafe conditions, or safety violations to an instructor.

II. Respect 

• For Instructors: Treat instructors with respect and follow their instructions diligently.
• For Fellow Members: Treat all members with courtesy, respect, and consideration, regardless of skill level, experience, or background. Encourage and support each other's growth.
• For the Art: Approach the study of HEMA with seriousness and respect for the historical traditions and techniques we practice.
• For Opponents: Engage in sparring and drills with a spirit of honorable competition and mutual respect. Acknowledge good technique and learn from both victories and defeats.
• For Guests: Treat guests and visitors with warmth and hospitality, making them feel welcome at KdF Fencing.

III. Etiquette 

• Punctuality: Arrive on time for classes and events. If you are late, enter quietly and join in as unobtrusively as possible.
• Attire: Maintain appropriate attire and free from any language, symbols, or imagery that may be considered offensive, discriminatory, or harassing to any particular group of people based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, disability, or any other protected characteristic. This includes but is not limited to clothing with profanity, hate speech, sexually suggestive content, or depictions of violence.
• Hygiene: Practice good personal hygiene.
• Communication: Communicate respectfully and constructively with instructors and fellow members. Address concerns directly and honestly, but always with tact.
• Sportsmanship: Demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times, both in victory and defeat. Celebrate successes humbly and learn from setbacks with grace.

IV. Integrity

• Honesty: Be honest and truthful in your interactions with instructors and fellow members.
• Humility: Recognize that there is always more to learn. Approach your training with humility and a willingness to accept instruction and feedback.
• Responsibility: Take responsibility for your actions, both on and off the training floor. Represent KdF Fencing with honor and integrity at all times.
• Call Your Hits: In all sparring, it is each fencer's responsibility to acknowledge and call when they believe they have been hit. This is of the utmost importance to fair play and trust.
• Academic Honesty: When engaging in research or discussion of historical sources, practice academic honesty and give proper credit to sources.

V. Conduct Beyond the School

• Representation: Remember that you represent KdF Fencing even when you are not in class or at events. Conduct yourself in a manner that reflects positively on the school and the HEMA community.
• Discretion: Be mindful of how you discuss your training outside of the school. Avoid boasting or exaggerating your skills.
• Responsibility: Use your training responsibly and ethically. HEMA skills are intended for self-improvement and historical study, not for aggression or violence outside of a training context.

VI. Addressing Violations

• Reporting: If you witness a violation of this Code of Conduct, please report it to an instructor as soon as possible.
• Resolution: The instructors of KdF Fencing will address violations of this code with fairness and impartiality. Consequences may range from verbal warnings to expulsion from the school, depending on the severity of the violation.
• Open Communication: We encourage open communication and will take seriously any concerns regarding inappropriate behavior.

This Code of Conduct is a living document and may be amended as needed. All members of KdF Fencing are expected to be familiar with and adhere to these guidelines. By upholding these principles, we ensure that KdF Fencing remains a safe, respectful, and rewarding environment for all who share a passion for Historical European Martial Arts.

Acknowledgment of the KdF Fencing Code of Conduct

I , have read and understood the KdF Fencing Code of Conduct. I acknowledge that it is my responsibility to uphold the principles outlined in this code and to conduct myself in a manner that reflects positively on the school and the HEMA community.

By signing below, I agree to abide by the KdF Fencing Code of Conduct and to report any violations that I witness.