USA Fencing Referee Examination Study Guide PDF

USA Fencing Referees’ Commission National Referee Examination Study Guide Information This packet contains sample test questions and outlines that will enable you to not only pass the...

USA Fencing Referees’ Commission National Referee Examination Study Guide Information This packet contains sample test questions and outlines that will enable you to not only pass the online test, but also give you practical guidance on refereeing in reality. Included are many study questions to prepare for the examination to earn a USA Fencing Referee Rating. The Referees’ Commission strongly recommends that referee candidates study the current USA Fencing Rulebook prior to taking the examination and complete this study guide. We recommend printing this document double-sided, (if possible two pages per sheet) as it is 58 pages. The last two pages should be separated for ease of completing the sample test and taking notes on topics you need to study more. Passing Requirement A score of 90% or better is required in the general section and each of the weapons sections examined. The required passing scores on the exam are as follows: General 54/60 questions Foil 27/30 questions Epee 27/30 questions Sabre 27/30 questions NOTE: Those desiring to take the National Referee Exam should be referred to the online test found on the website of USA Fencing in the Referees section: https://member.usafencing.org/store/exams Test Specifications Log in to your profile, pay for the test and click on appropriate links to start it. Referee candidates have 48 hours to pass the general plus weapon sections. IMPORTANT: The test is to be completed without any resources, including this study guide! Check out the USA Fencing website (see screenshot below) to find detailed information: For more information, contact the Referee Development Committee of the Referees’ Commission Email: [email protected]. 1  SafeSport Process for Realize that you want to become a referee. Steps Referees 18 years or Over To Become Log on to USA a Referee Fencing Profile Read Rulebook. Begin to practice refereeing at club Purchase +CheckEd Initiate background screen Sign up for a referee clinic Complete free U.S. Center run by a for SafeSport Training Print out study guide Certified Review study guide Referee Instructor Receive “green light” (CRI) You are now officially eligible to referee! Attend Clinic. Note: Referee candidates are REQUIRED to attend a clinic to become a “P.” Take online test. Candidates have 48 hours to pass the general AND weapon specific tests. Complete clinic and test to become a “P.” Ratings Fundamentals Continue to practice refereeing. A level P: passing score on the written exam. Complete SafeSport if 18yrs or over. A level 10: referee the finals of an E rated competition. A level 9: referee the finals of a D rated competition. A level 8: referee the finals of a C rated competition. A level 7: referee the finals of a B rated competition. Connect with an Observer in your region. A level 6: referee the finals of an A rated competition. Set up a tournament to be observed in A level 5: referee the round of pools in an Open NAC your preferred weapon(s). OR final of an A1-A4 level Regional event. A level 5 rating must be earned before subsequent ratings A level 4: referee the DE round of 64 of an Open NAC. A level 3: referee the DE round of 16 of an Open NAC. Earn a rating at a tournament! A level 2: referee the DE round of 8 of an Open NAC. Congratulations, you are a referee! A level 1: referee any bout at an Open NAC. 2 Rulebook Basics The rulebook for USA Fencing is divided into four main sections. The FIE Rulebook publishes them as separate documents. Many years ago USA Fencing thought it better to have them all in one place. Technical Rules: dealing with technical descriptions of fencing and its equipment. Example: t.170 Organizational Rules: dealing with organization and control of fencing competition. Example: o.14 Material Rules: dealing with weapons, scoring equipment and their specifications. Example: m.25 Publicity Code: dealing with advertisements and sponsorship. (excellent cure for insomnia) Study Guide Basics Have a copy of the most current rulebook, either in print or on a computer. Be prepared to page through the rulebook as you answer the sample questions. You can use these later to study for your test. Remember, when you take the test, it is to be taken WITHOUT resources. Many fencers are very visual. Try drawing out a strip. And draw on it Fencer X and Fencer Y. Fencer X Fencer Y At the end of each section: make notes on the information where you need more studying. Answer the sample questions without accessing the answer pages. Separate the last two pages of this study guide. The last page is an answer sheet. Complete a section and then go over the answers. Be sure to make notes on topics you need to review. Review the answers and if you have any questions consult a Certified Referee Instructor (CRI) Testing Tips After completing the entire study guide, set a date for you to take the test. Dedicate time enough to be able to take and re-take the test several times. Remember you have 48 hours to pass all four sections. It is recommended that you take ALL the sections. You are required to pass the general section and your preferred weapon. However, to make yourself more marketable to be hired, it is highly recommended that you have competency in at least two weapons. Make sure you are in a quiet space so you can concentrate. Draw out your strip with Fencer X and Fencer Y. Read questions carefully and try to break the question down to the foundation of what it is asking. Look for temporal words like “during,” “after,” “then,” “immediately,” – it will help you get down to the essence of the question. Sample Question Fencer X makes an attack, which is parried. Fencer Y had made a sideways sweep with their blade to parry Fencer X’s attack and after the parry, Fencer Y’s blade became tangled in the cloth curtain on the bottom of the score table. Fencer X then starts a remise which lands valid. What should the referee do? A. Allow Fencer X’s touch as Fencer Y had chosen to fence on the side of the strip closest to the score table B. Annul Fencer X’s touch. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD for hitting Fencer Y when they were unable to defend themselves. C. Annul Fencer X’s touch. 3 Sample Question (continued) Tip for figuring the answer: First, picture the action. Next, break it down to its essence. A fencer’s blade was caught up and then an action started, therefore, no touch. Key: Why did I call the halt? Did the action happen after the halt? Sample Question Answer: (C). Fencing cannot continue when a fencer cannot defend themselves. When Fencer Y’s blade becomes tangled in the cloth curtain on the scoring table, the referee should call “Halt!” All hits scored after a call of “Halt!” must be annulled, so Fencer X’s touch should be annulled. Relevant Rule(s): t.23.3, t.23.5. General Questions Study Guide Uniform, Plastron (Under arm protector), Chest Protection, Mask (t.64, t.71, t 75, m.25-m.27) Uniform Basics: No holes and no tears in any of the uniform Jacket has a 10cm overlap over pants (in on guard) Plastron required (in foil over chest protector) Chest protector required for ALL female fencers. In foil, any chest protector must be covered with an FIE/USA SEMI approved soft material AND the plastron must be OVER the chest protection. Name for events that require it must be 8 to 10cm (high) 1 to 1.5cm(wide), navy blue, block letters on the back between shoulders. USA competitions: can also be on fencer’s REAR leg. Fencing pants must be worn- there are no substitutes like: sweat pants, shorts, jeans, etc. Gloves must be free of holes, have an inspection mark and cover the lower half of the forearm. Mask must have a horizontal strap (elastic strap) which fastens low on the back of the head. Mask must be inspected for safety. Absolutely no visor masks allowed. There are three different masks (one for epee, foil and sabre). For example, an epee fencer CANNOT use a foil mask (even if taped) to fence in a competition. Inspection of mask, plastron, lamé, cords, etc. MUST BE verified before every bout (pool, direct elimination, team, etc.) Uniform Sample Questions G1. The requirements for the format of the name on the uniform are that: A. The letters must be legible from sixty meters. B. The letters must be in dark blue, in capitals, between 8 cm and 10 cm high, and between 1 cm and 1.5 cm wide, according to the length of the name. C. The letters may be any color, in capitals, and legible from 30 meters Answer: (____). Notes: ____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G2. The protective plastron must be checked at the beginning of each: A. Tournament. B. Bout. C. Pool, team match and direct elimination bout. Answer: (____). Notes: ____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 4 G3. What action should a Referee take if a fencer reports to the strip with a jacket that has a torn sleeve? A. Fencer receives a YELLOW CARD; confiscate jacket and allow a reasonable amount of time for the replacement. B. Fencer receives a RED CARD; confiscate jacket and allow a reasonable amount of time for the replacement. C. Allow a reasonable amount of time for the replacement or repair; no penalty Answer: (____). Notes: ____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G4. A fencer in a Y-12 women’s sabre competition presents to the strip without chest protection and without a plastron (underarm protector). The rules instruct the Referee to: A. Allow her to fence as sabre is not a point weapon. B. Allow her to fence as this is a youth competition. C. Fencer receives a RED CARD; allow a reasonable amount of time to obtain conforming equipment. Answer: (____). Notes: ____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G5. A fencer at a national event reports to the strip without their last name on the back of their uniform between the shoulders What is the correct outcome? A. The fencer receives a YELLOW CARD unless the name appears on the fencer’s rear leg; allow them to fence. B. The fencer receives a RED CARD unless the name appears on the fencer’s rear leg; allow them to fence. C. No penalty if the fencer is wearing an armband bearing their national colors. Answer: (____). Notes: ____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G6. Fencer comes to the strip and the mask’s tongue/ spring does not touch the back of the fencer’s head and the elastic strap does not lay next to the lower back of the head. What does the referee do? A. Since the mask has the proper inspection mark, it must be safe. The referee should let the fencer fence. B. Require the fencer to fix the tongue of the mask, then proceed with the bout. C. Require the fencer to fix the tongue and the elastic strap, then proceed with the bout. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G7. Before the start of the bout and with no other penalties given, the Referee notices that there is no safety strap on the back of the mask of Fencer X. A. Start the bout since the mask had passed the initial inspection and has been stamped. B. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. Fencer X must affix a horizontal safety strap on the mask or the referee must confiscate the mask. C. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD, and is allowed to fence with the mask as is. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Notes: _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 5 Strip Basics (t.16 through t.19) The proper distance for fencers to come on guard (when not at the on guard lines) is such that when the fences are in point in line position while on guard, their points do not overlap. However, referees do not start bouts (in foil & sabre) with fencers in point in line position. See the below diagram- The fencing strip is 14 meters long -1.5 to 2 meters wide. (Note: this does not include run-off) A fencer with one foot off of the SIDE of the strip is a “halt.” If a fencer has one foot off the side of the strip, that fencer loses ONE meter from the start of the attack. If the fencer is less than one meter from the back end of the strip (meaning they are deep into their two meter warning zone), it can place the fencer off of the back of the strip and award a touch to the opponent. If a fencer has one foot off, that fencer can score provided the action is started before the “halt” Both feet off the side of the strip, has the same applications of losing one meter. Both feet off of the rear limits is a touch for the opponent. If the referees halt is for a fencer leaving the rear limits, that fencer’s touch is annulled, but s/he can be scored upon, provided the action began before the “halt.” Strip Rules Sample Questions G8. Fencer X executes an attack. After scoring a valid touch, Fencer X then leaves the side of the strip with both feet. What should the Referee do? A. Annul the touch; Fencer X retreats one meter. B. Annul the touch; Fencer Y remains in place and Fencer X assumes normal distance. C. Award a touch for Fencer X. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G9. Fencer X makes an attack. Fencer X is off the side of the strip in front of Fencer Y with both feet before Fencer Y parries and starts his riposte. Fencer Y’s riposte lands valid. What should the Referee do? A. Do not award a touch; place the fencers on guard where they were, but in the lateral center of the strip. B. Do not award a touch; have Fencer X return to the position held on strip at the start of the attack and Fencer X then retreats a meter. C. Award a touch for Fencer Y. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 6 G10. During an advance-lunge attack, Fencer Y steps off the side of the strip with one foot during the advance, but recovers the strip and then scores a valid touch on Fencer X. What should the Referee do? A. Do not award a touch; place the fencers on guard where they are. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. C. Do not award a touch; Fencer Y returns to the place in the strip where they started the advance-lunge attack and then retreats an additional meter. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G11. Fencer Y has retreated behind the end line with both feet while parrying Fencer X’s attack. Fencer Y makes an immediate valid riposte. What should the Referee do? A. Award a touch for Fencer X. B. Award a touch for Fencer Y. C. Do not award any touch. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G12. During an action, Fencer Y goes off the side of the strip with one foot between Fencer X and the end line. Y was standing with his front foot one half meter in front of his own end line at the start of the action. What should the Referee do? A. Advance Fencer X one meter B. Award a touch for Fencer X C. Place Fencer Y back on the strip with Fencer Y’s rear foot at the end line Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G13. Fencer X is attacking and steps off the side of the strip with one foot during the attack, but does not hit his opponent. The Rules direct the Referee to: A. Call “Halt!” and have Fencer X retreat one meter from where Fencer X's offensive action started. B. Call “Halt!” and place Fencer X back on guard where Fencer X's foot went off the strip, but return the fencers to the lateral center. C. Allow the action to continue. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Notes for Uniform and Strip Rules: _________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 7 Penalty Chart (t.170) Basics The full penalty chart of t.170 and knowledge of these rules are vital to refereeing. Remember, this chart is an abridgement of the rules. Look up the full rules for more details. Having a reference handy when you referee is helpful. Group 1 Penalties (Cards) Penalty lasts for the bout Yellow plus 2nd offence equals Red Card (touch for the opponent) (in same bout) Group 2 Penalties (Cards) Penalties that are automatic Red Card (touch for opponent) Group 3 Penalties (Cards) Can be Red/Yellow or straight to Black (Red for fencer - Yellow for spectator) Group 4 Penalties (Cards) Behavioral penalties that go immediately to Black Card Key: Referees issue penalties from lesser to greater. Meaning if a fencer has performed a Yellow Card penalty AND a Red Card penalty. The referee issues the yellow one first and then the red. Because if a referee issues the red first, that penalizes the athlete more than the rules allow. Any non-conforming equipment is confiscated only for the bout. Equipment that has a fault (not working) that occurs during a bout is not issued a card. Fencers must be present at the start of a pool, DE bout, or team match. Fencers are allowed three calls before being eliminated: First call (not present) is a Yellow Card. Second call (via public address system) at one minute is a Red Card. If still not present at Third call, fencer is eliminated from the competition. Make special note of the key at the bottom of the chart. An asterisk means that if a fencer scores while creating a penalty, that action (and it’s scoring touch) gets annulled. Always write down the issuing of penalties onto the scoresheet. Penalty Chart Sample Questions G14. During a halt, a fault is found in Fencer Y’s equipment; the equipment appears fraudulent. What should the Referee do? A. Confiscate Fencer Y’s equipment; before deciding on any penalty, consult the technical expert. B. Confiscate Fencer Y’s equipment; Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD. C. Confiscate Fencer Y’s equipment; Fencer Y receives a RED CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G15. Fencer X has a YELLOW CARD. During a halt, Fencer X’s weapon is found not to conform to the Rules with a fault that could have been caused by the fencing. What should the Referee do? A. Confiscate Fencer X’s weapon; Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Confiscate Fencer X’s weapon; no additional penalty is required. C. Confiscate Fencer X’s weapon; Fencer X receives a RED CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 8 G16. No penalties have been given. While retreating, Fencer Y parries Fencer X’s attack and ripostes, touching X on the valid surface, which is registered on the machine. Y retreats then falls; X’s remise arrives on the valid surface, which is registered on the machine. What should the Referee do? A. Award a touch for X; Y receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Annul all touches; Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD. C. Award a touch for Fencer Y. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G17. In a pool bout, Fencer X has received a YELLOW CARD for non-conforming equipment and is losing 3-2. Fencer Y attacks and scores a valid touch while X trips and falls. What is the outcome? A. Fencer X is now losing 4-1. B. Fencer X has lost the bout 5-2. C. Fencer X is now losing 4-2. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G18. Having already received a YELLOW CARD for raising the mask before the Referee called Halt! Fencer Y parries while turning the back to the opponent and then makes a riposte that arrives on the opponent’s valid surface. What should the Referee do? A. Annul Fencer Y’s touch; Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Annul Fencer Y’s touch; Fencer Y receives a RED CARD. C. Award Fencer Y’s touch; Fencer Y receives a RED CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G19. In a pool bout, Fencer X has received a YELLOW CARD for non-conforming equipment and is winning 4-2. X attacks, sees the machine register a valid touch and, in excitement, removes the mask before the Referee calls Halt! What is the outcome? A. Fencer X has won 5-3. B. Fencer X has won 5-2. C. Fencer X is now winning 4-3. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G20. During the bout, Fencer X has received a RED CARD for disturbing order on the strip. X repeats the offense and receives a BLACK CARD. Fencer X protests the issuance of the BLACK CARD because the RED CARD was not noted on the scoresheet. What is the correct outcome? A. Award a penalty touch for Fencer X’s opponent because of Fencer X’s unjustified appeal; the exclusion of Fencer X stands. B. Fencer X’s protest is valid; Fencer X receives a RED CARD (noted on the score sheet) for disturbing order. C. No additional touch for Fencer X’s opponent; the exclusion of Fencer X stands. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Notes: _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 9 G21. Fencer Y is losing. Fencer Y allows Fencer X to score a touch without attempting to defend. What is the correct outcome? A. Fencer Y receives YELLOW CARD. B. Fencer Y receives RED CARD. C. Fencer Y receives a BLACK CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G22. Having already received a Group 1 YELLOW CARD in the current bout, Fencer X commits a different offense from the same group. What is the correct outcome? A. A previous touch scored by Fencer X is removed. B. Fencer X receives a RED CARD. Point awarded to Fencer Y. C. Fencer X receives another YELLOW CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G23. In a previous bout in the same pool, Fencer X committed an offense requiring an immediate Group 2 RED CARD. With no other penalties given in the current bout, Fencer X commits the same offense. What should the Referee do? A. Exclude Fencer X from the competition. B. Fencer X receives a RED CARD. C. Consult the Bout Committee. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G24.No penalties have been given. Fencer X attacks. Fencer Y makes a parry, and scores a riposte to the valid target of Fencer X. During the parry, Fencer Y strikes Fencer X’s mask with the bell guard. What should the Referee do? A. Annul the touch; Fencer Y receives a RED CARD. B. Award a touch for Fencer Y. C. Annul the touch; Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G25. Fencer Y makes an attack and Fencer X makes a counter attack by ducking. Fencer Y’s attack misses and Fencer X touches on valid target as Fencer X falls over backwards. The referee should? A. Award a touch for Fencer X. B. Annul the touch made by fencer X. Resume the bout from that point. C. Annul the touch made by Fencer X. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G26. In a pool bout, Fencer Y unjustifiably complains about an analysis of a phrase after having received a YELLOW CARD penalty for covering target earlier in the same bout. What is the correct outcome? A. Fencer Y receives a RED CARD. B. Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD. C. Fencer Y receives a BLACK CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 10 G27. Having already received a YELLOW CARD for a failed weapon, Fencer X presents another weapon, which passes. Fencer X’s coach asks to take the first failed weapon for repair while Fencer X is in the current bout. What should the Referee do? A. Decline the request to take the weapon for repair as it is confiscated until the bout is complete. B. Allow the coach to take the weapon for repair. C. The request to take the weapon is declined. Fencer X’s coach receives BLACK CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G28. When checking the equipment at the start of a direct elimination bout, the Referee immediately finds that Fencer X’s mask does not have the required inspection mark. Right after that, the referee finds that that Fencer X is not wearing an underarm protector. What should the score be at the start of the bout? A. The bout starts with Fencer X losing by a score of 0-2. B. The bout starts with Fencer X losing by a score of 0-1. C. If Fencer X can quickly correct the problems, the score is 0-0. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G29. Prior to the start of a competition a coach is seen giving a warm up lesson to a student who is wearing only shorts, and a t-shirt. The referee must: A. Allow the lesson to continue. B. Issue a YELLOW CARD to both fencer and coach; the lesson cannot continue until the student is wearing a protective mask. C. Issue a BLACK CARD to both fencer and coach. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Notes for Penalty Chart Questions: ________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Fundamental Actions Notes (t.2 through t.15) A referee knows the basic definitions of fencing terms. Referees know the basic definition of bout, match, competition, tournament, championships. Make sure you can define the following: attack, riposte, counter-riposte, parry, relative to attacks and ripostes- direct/ indirect, disengage, coupé, doublé, fleche, counter-attack, stop hit, remise, redoublement, reprise, circular defense, point in line, corps à corps. Take notes on terms you are unfamiliar with. Corps à corps: the fencers come into body contact (corps à corps) without jostling or attempting to avoid the touch. (Exists in ALL three weapons) Constitutes a halt. ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 11 Fundamental Actions Sample Questions G30. As Fencer X makes a straight attack, the Referee notices that Fencer Y is in danger of tripping over the reel. The Referee calls “Halt!”. At the moment of the command “Halt!” Fencer Y makes a parry and then an immediate riposte that lands valid on Fencer X. What should the Referee do? A. Do not award the touch. B. Award a touch for Fencer Y. C. Do not award the touch; Fencer Y receives RED CARD for continuing to fence after the command “Halt!” Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G31. Fencer X stops for any reason other than the Referee’s command “Halt!” during fencing and is hit valid by Fencer Y. What should the Referee do? A. Annul touch by Fencer Y. B. Award a touch for Fencer Y. C. Annul touch by Fencer Y only if there were loud and confusing noises. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G32. Fencer X drops the weapon after Fencer Y executes a parry. Fencer Y’s immediate riposte scores a valid touch. What should the Referee do? A. Annul the touch. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. C. Award a touch for Fencer Y. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G33. Fencing at close quarters is allowed so long as the competitors can: A. Possibly score a touch, within three actions. B. Maintain a minimum separation of 10 centimeters apart. C. Wield their weapons correctly and the Referee can, in foil and sabre, follow the phrase. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G34. After causing incidental corps à corps with Fencer Y, Fencer X then leaves the side of the strip with both feet. No penalties have been given What should happen? A. For all three weapons, call Halt!; no penalty. B. Call Halt! only for sabre and foil; the fencer(s) who caused the corps corps receive(s) a YELLOW CARD; for epee allow fencing to continue as long as the action is not dangerous. C. For sabre and foil, call Halt!; the fencer(s) who caused the corps corps receive(s) a YELLOW CARD; ie only call Halt! Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Fundamental Action Notes: _______________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 12 Duration of the bout, Injury Break rules (t.37 through t.45), and Etiquette (t.121) Basics Pool bouts: (open, veteran, and youth) 5 touches - maximum of 3 minutes of fencing time. No time kept in sabre pool bouts GENERALLY. Team relay bouts: each bout to intervals of 5, 10, 15 etc. touches - 3 minutes per relay, Maximum of 45 touches for entire match. No time kept in sabre team bouts. The referee is responsible for the ensuring that the time keeping is done correctly. Rest between consecutive bouts 3 minutes - pool bout; 10 minutes - DE bout. All Open-Junior-Youth14-Youth12 Direct Elimination: 15 touches. Three - 3 minute periods with 1 min. rest. Sabre DE gets rest break at 8 touches. Note: Y10-Y8 REQUIRED to use shorter blades for competition. (Blades must be “0” or “2”) Y10- Y8 DE bout (ALL weapons)- 10 touches-TWO-3 minute periods break at 5 touches OR break at 3 minutes whichever comes first. Non-Combativity rules apply in regular, youth and vet DEs. (Also in team relay matches) Veteran DE bouts are 10 touches. Veteran Foil/Epee DE: 10 touches in TWO-3 minute periods. Veteran Sabre DE: break at 5 touches During the breaks ONE person is allowed to speak to the fencer. If at the end of regulation time the scores are equal, the fencers fence for a deciding touch, with a maximum time limit of one minute. o Before the fencing recommences, the referee will determine priority to decide who will be the winner if scores are still equal at the end of the extra minute. o In epee, during this minute, when double touches occur, points will not be awarded, the score will not change, and the fencers will retain their respective positions on the strip. Injury Break A 5 minute injury break (verified by medical) for treatment is allowed per body part. Muscle cramps (medical staff specifying cramp location) are allowed the 5 minute injury break. Injury breaks are ONLY for medical issues that occur during the course of a bout (on that day). Etiquette Begin and end each the bout with fencers behind their on guard lines (4 meters apart). Mandatory salute: (before and after a bout) salute to the opponent, referee, and audience. Fencers must be still before the command “fence” Mask must be on during referee’s decision. End of bout: (via score or time elapsing) fencers must return to their guard line, do the mandatory salute and then shake (non-weapon) hands with their opponent. Duration, Injury and Etiquette Sample Questions G35. Is a touch recorded on the scoring apparatus after time has expired ever awarded? A. If it is an immediate riposte B. If the action began before the “Halt!” C. No. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G36. During a bout the referee notices that the clock has stopped working. If the clock fails, the Referee should: A. Retain the touch score and restart the clock. B. Retain the touch score and restart the clock with one minute remaining. C. Retain the touch score, estimate the time expired, and continue the bout from that point. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 13 G37. Fencer X has already had a verified sprained ankle occur in the current bout and has taken a five minute injury treatment break. During a subsequent action, Fencer X sprains a finger. What should the Referee do? A. If requested and verified by available medical authorities, allow Fencer X another five minute break for treatment of the new injury. B. Award a touch for Fencer X’s opponent. C. Require Fencer X to continue as only one injury time per bout is allowed. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G38. At the end of a pool, the Referee should: A. Immediately total all indicators, announce the results, have all fencers sign the score sheet, and then return the score sheet to the Bout Committee. B. Immediately have the fencers check and sign the score sheet, and return the score sheet to the Bout Committee. C. Return the score sheet to the Bout Committee. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G39. The score in a bout is 4-2 and time expires before the maximum number of touches has been scored. What should the referee do? A. The touches for each fencer are advanced by one simultaneously, until one fencers score reaches the maximum number of touches. V5-3 B. The score is recorded as it was at the expiration of time with a victory for the fencer who scored the most touches. V4-2 C. Record the score as V5-2 Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G40. Fencer X is in a team match and sustains a twisted ankle (verified by medical staff) while fencing and cannot continue. The score in the match at the time of the injury is 20-23 in favor of Fencer Y. What is the outcome? A. This lap is forfeited and the substitute may take the place of Fencer X in subsequent laps. B. Fencer X may be replaced by the substitute, who has not yet been used, for the rest of the match, starting at 20-23 in the current lap. C. This lap and the rest of Fencer X’s laps in this match are forfeited. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G41. When may a Referee’s decision be justifiably appealed? A. When a fencer disagrees with the reconstruction of the phrase. B. When the video of the bout made by the fencer’s coach shows that the Referee incorrectly called one fencer’s beat when it was really the other fencer’s parry. C. When a rule is misapplied. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Notes: _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 14 G42. Fencer X is leading 13-11 over Fencer Y when time expires at the end of the third round in a 15 touch DE bout. What is the correct outcome? A. Fencer X wins with the same score B. As neither fencer reached 15, fencing continues until one fencer scores 15 touches. C. Fencer Y wins. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G43. During a team match in the second lap of the match, Fencer #1 for Team X should have fenced, but Fencer #2 for Team X accidentally fenced instead. The error is caught at the beginning of the third lap. What should the Referee do? A. Go back and fence the second lap over with the proper fencers. The lap with the incorrect fencers is considered to have never happened and the score should be reset to what it was at the end of the first lap. B. Since the error happened early in the match, change the order of the fencers on the score sheet and continue to fence as though Fencer #1 and Fencer #2 were in the changed slots. C. Team X forfeits the match. Team Y wins. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G44. In which situation is non-combativity called during a pool bout? A. Never B. When both fencers show their unwillingness to fence C. When the score is 0-0 after a minute of fencing Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G45. When the referee gives the command “On guard” in foil or sabre, how may a fencer hold his weapon? A. In point in line position. B. Point up at an angle greater than parallel to the strip, with the fencer's elbow bent. C. Point directed at the floor. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G46. When is the bout over? A. When all possible time has expired OR when one fencer reaches the maximum number of touches. B. When all possible time has expired. C. When one fencer reaches the maximum amount of touches. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G47. When is the salute required? A. Only at the start of the bout B. Only after the referee indicates that the final bout result has been determined. C. At the start of each bout and at the end of each bout after the Referee indicates that the result has been determined. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 15 Video Rules Basics (t.60 through t.62) Only replay systems provided by an organizer can be taken under consideration. A spectator’s video can never be used. Rulebook calls the fencer’s request an appeal. This is different than appealing the rules. In 5 touch bouts (pool/team relay) an individual has one video appeal. Meaning that the fencer has one incorrect appeal per bout. In 15 touch direct elimination bouts an individual has two video appeals. Only the fencer on the strip has the right to request a video appeal. The referee can choose to look at the video at any time, without request of the fencer. The video can be looked at a maximum of four times. The video can be consulted at the request of the video referee. If the score is equal at the end of a match, the video must be consulted for the decisive touch. The decision (after consulting the video) is FINAL. Team Basics (t.60 through t.62) A team is composed of three fencers plus one substitute- entire team must be present to begin Allowed in the team area are; captain, one trainer, and four team members. Only the team captain (who may or may not be a fencer), has the right to register protests. Substitutions can be made. Only, in and out of the same spot on the roster. If a medical injury (severe enough for withdraw) occurs and a tactical substitution has already been made for a different spot on the roster, then that team loses the match. Video and Team Sample Questions G48. In a direct elimination bout where video replay is in use, Fencer X previously requested video review two times. In the first review, the referee reversed his call. In the second review, the referee maintained his original call. Fencer X requests a video review for the third time during this bout. The Referee should: A. Fencer X is issued a YELLOW CARD for unjustified appeal because X is out of video appeals. B. Review the action using the video replay system. C. Fencer X is issued a RED CARD for disturbing order because X is out of video appeals. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G49. During the first relay of a team match, the coach of Team Y leaves the team enclosure and approaches the referee to dispute a decision. What penalty should the referee apply? A. Team Y has a YELLOW CARD for the duration of the match. B. The fencer for team Y has a YELLOW CARD for the remainder of the first relay. C. Team Y's coach receives a third group penalty spectator warning; YELLOW CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ G50. During the first bout of a team match, the fencer for Team A presents a weapon that fails inspection. Then during the fifth bout of the same team match, the fencer for Team A makes a touch while falling. The referee should: A. Touch is annulled. The fencer for Team A receives a YELLOW CARD B. Touch is annulled. Team A receives a YELLOW CARD valid for the rest of the team match. C. Touch is annulled. Team A receives a RED CARD valid for the rest of the team match. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 16 Additional General Section Notes: __________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Concepts I need to review: _________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Questions I have for a CRI or CRO: __________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Foil Study Guide Basics Foil Equipment Basics (m.2- m.13) A foil weight 500 ±2 grams. The spring in the tip must be able to push the foil weight up. The blade should be tested perpendicular to the ground. The maximum bend allowed is “less than one centimeter,” located near the center of the blade and in one direction (no s-curves) in the vertical plane. Foil lamé: Must fit in such a way that there is a triangle formed between the two prominences of the hip bones (top edges) and the groin when the fencer is in the on guard position. (m.28) The lamé must cover the top of the hip bones in on guard. Foil mask must have a conductive surface that is a horizontal line 1.5-2cm below the chin (m.27). Note: if the bib is affixed after market, it must not have gaps that can catch a tip. During the preliminary weapon check prior to every bout: o Weight test o Check that there is tape on the foible that is 15 cm in length (length of a dollar bill) o Wire down the blade is not popping out of the blade. o Check the wire under the bell pad does not look altered and does not protrude from the guard. There can be tape in the guard (unlike in epee). o Check that the body cord has a fastening device (bail) that is working. o Check that the alligator/crocodile clip is on the back of the lamé on the weapon-hand side. This is to ensure that it cannot be accidentally displaced by the fencer’s unarmed hand during fencing movements. Foil Penalty Chart Actions Basics (t.170) Scoring a touch while reversing the shoulders is no longer a Yellow Card. The referee must watch to ensure that the fencer is not covering target with his/her back arm. Covering target can only occur when fencers are in a distance that a touch can be scored. Use of the unarmed hand is an immediate Red Card (in all three weapons). A referee can place a fencer on the “open” side if side judges are not available, IF the referee thinks that athlete is covering target. (t.30.3) Equipment must be correctly functioning at the start of a bout, whether or not there was an inspection by the technical committee/ armorer prior. Non-conforming equipment presented to be used in a bout must function. Otherwise it is a Group 1 Yellow Card (or Red Card if the fencer has already been issued a Yellow or Red Card). 17 Side Judges Basics (t.72) Though side judges can be utilized in all three weapons (in epee - for possible floor touches or use of back arm, in sabre - for crossovers), however, they are most often used in foil. Typically, a side judge is given the specific task to look for: examples include covering target with the back arm or mask, utilizing the back arm, turning, corps a corps to avoid, etc. If there are not extra side judges easily available, the referee can change the side of the strip that the athlete is hooked up on in order to be able to see the open target. (t.30.3) A referee may question the judges but the final decision is the referee’s alone. Foil Equipment and Penalty Chart Sample Questions F1. There has been no official equipment check. With no other penalties given, Fencer X reports to the strip wearing a lamé with a small patch sewn on it. During the check it is found that the patch registers non-valid. What is the correct outcome? A. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD; confiscate the lamé; Fencer X gets another lamé. B. No penalty; confiscate the lamé; Fencer X gets another lamé. C. Fencer X receives a RED CARD; confiscate the lamé; Fencer X gets another lamé. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F2. May a fencer hold a non-orthopedic foil (“French”) grip by the pommel? A. No. B. Yes. C. Yes, but only if the entire handle is insulated. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F3. No penalties have been given in this bout. The current bout score is 3-3 when Fencer X parries Fencer Y’s blade with the unarmed hand and then lands a touch on Fencer Y’s valid surface. What should the Referee do? A. Annul Fencer X’s touch, Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Exclude Fencer X from the competition. C. Annul Fencer X’s touch; Fencer X receives a RED CARD. The score is 4-3 for Fencer Y. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F4. Fencer Y has received a YELLOW CARD for covering target in the current bout. Fencers X and Y come together, both causing corps à corps without jostling or attempting to avoid the touch. The Referee calls “Halt!” What is the correct outcome? A. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD; Y receives a RED CARD. B. There is no penalty. Separate fencers and resume bout. C. No penalty but caution both fencers. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Foil Equipment and Penalty Chart Notes: ___________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 18 F5. Fencer X makes an attack that is parried. Fencer Y makes an immediate riposte, while Fencer X makes an immediate remise while dropping his head so that his mask blocks the frontal target area. Fencer Y’s riposte misses and Fencer X’s remise arrives. What should the Referee do? A. Do not award a touch. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. C. Call “Halt!”. Place fencers on guard. Do not award a touch. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F6. Fencer X makes an attack and Fencer Y makes a counterattack while twisting away from Fencer X. After the action is completed, only Fencer Y’s light has registered on the machine and Fencer Y’s back is turned to Fencer X. The Referee then calls “Halt!”. What is the correct outcome? A. Award a touch for Fencer Y. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. C. Do not award a touch. Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F7. No penalties have been given. The Referee clearly sees Fencer X’s touch arrive on the hand of Fencer Y, which is covering valid target. Fencer X’s white light registers concurrently on the machine. What should the Referee do? A. No touch awarded. Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Do not award a touch or penalty. Resume the bout. C. Award a touch for Fencer X. Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F8. No penalties have been given in this bout. The current bout score is 3-3 when Fencer X covers target while landing a touch on Fencer Y’s valid surface. What should the Referee do? A. Annul Fencer X’s touch; Fencer X receives a RED CARD. The score is 4-3 for Fencer Y. B. Annul Fencer X’s touch, Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. C. Allow Fencer X’s touch to stand, Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F9. Fencer X makes an attack that is parried. As Fencer Y is starting their riposte, Fencer X quickly closes distance and steps on the foot of Fencer Y without attempting to make a fencing action. Fencer Y’s riposte misses and Fencer X’s remise lands valid. The referee should: A. Award touch for Fencer X. B. Annul touch by Fencer X. Fencer X receives YELLOW CARD. C. Call “Halt!”. No touch awarded or penalty given. Resume bout. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F10. No penalties have been given in this bout. The current bout score is 3-3 when Fencer X covers target while landing a touch on Fencer Y’s valid surface. What should the Referee do? A. Annul Fencer X’s touch; Fencer X receives a RED CARD. The score is 4-3 for Fencer Y. B. Allow Fencer X’s touch to stand, Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. C. Annul Fencer X’s touch, Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 19  Foil Priority Basics for Testing (t.76- t.89) The conventions of priority are difficult to bullet point. The following is to help solidify a very visual thing into bullet points that will help you pass the test. Note: this section of the study guide is designed to help you navigate the priority questions. It is critical to visualize the question and ask yourself what is the foundational concept the question is asking. Point in Line o Fencing time and distance both matter for a point in line to be executed correctly. o Must be in the high line AND clearly threatening target (thumb on top). o A line must be established prior to the final attack being initiated (an advance lunge/fleche). o A point in line must be static and cannot deviate from the target while disengaging an attempted blade take. o Disengages that are not necessary (meaning the opponent is not attempting to beat the blade) forfeits the line. o Lines can be advanced, retreated and lunged. o The rules obligate that the opponent deflect (beat) the blade to earn priority against the line. o Referees cannot start a bout with one fencer in point in line. Attacks o Correctly executed simple attacks in foil (for refereeing) are executed with an advance lunge (or fleche) with the tip of the foil threatening the opponent. o If Fencer X attacks with a fluid continuous advance lunge, there is no window to attack in preparation. The rules of priority obligate Fencer Y to make his opponents attack fail by either defending with the blade, making them fall short, or making them miss. o Note: “making them miss” by ducking, squirming, turning the body does not have priority, it is a counter attack. o Attacks can be direct, indirect or compound. Beat Attacks o A foil fencer can tap the blade (called a beat) as a means to earn priority. If s/he beats the blade and then hits with a lunge (or advance lunge, advance fleche) an opponent must earn priority: defend with the blade, open the distance to make the fencer fall short, or by other means (that does not have priority) (like squatting down with their mask facing forward, squirming) to make the attack fail. o If a fencer beats the blade and attacks with a lunge (or advance lunge) the opponent cannot parry at the same time as the beat. If the opponent is trying to defend a beat attack, there must be two distinct sounds otherwise it is right to award the touch to the fencer doing the beat attack with lunge (or advance lunge/fleche). Counter attack o A counter attack point is awarded ONLY if the opponent’s initial attack has failed. o It is an action into an already established or developing attack. o The speed of a counter attack does not matter. A fast counter attack is not awarded against a slow attack even if it hits before the attack does. o Counter attacks fulfilled with group 1 violations are annulled. Examples: mask covering, turning the back, falling, covering target, etc. Remember use of unarmed hand (automatic Red Card) also annuls the touch. Parry and Riposte o A parry is a simple defensive action designed to deflect an attack. Once taking a parry a fencer must immediately riposte. A riposte is the offensive action after the defense. o Note: A riposte does not have to be fast- it must (however) be immediate. 20  Parry and Riposte (continued) o If after a parry a fencer makes a momentary pause, then the opponent has the right to renew the attack (remise - immediate direct renewal, reprise - a new attack after a return to on guard, redoublement - additional offensive action after previous attack has failed) o A fencer can parry a riposte (often referred to as counter parry riposte) the last fencer to parry AND successfully riposte and get a light on earns the point. o A riposte (like attacks) can be direct, indirect or compound. Covering target o If a fencer covers target with the back arm or the mask when in fencing distance (meaning the distance that a touch could occur); they earn a Group 1 Yellow Card. o If the referee sees the fencer get hit on the arm that is covering, that touch can be awarded as if valid. IF the referee clearly sees that target was substituted. You cannot ask the fencer or spectators for that information. o Covering with the mask is challenging to see. A tip to help see and understand covering with the mask is to ask yourself if you think the two fencers could make eye contact. (ie.the offending fencer’s chin is down, or the top of the head is toward the other fencer) then that fencer is probably covering with the mask. o For covering with the arm or the mask, put yourself into the shoes of the fencers. If fencer X attacks and Fencer Y dives his head down and forward, does Fencer X have a target to reasonably riposte to? Remember the job of the referee is to make the bout fair for both fencers. It is your job to even the playing field. Additional Priority Notes: __________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ After testing, how do I get better at understanding priority? Observing the best referees is an excellent way to improve your priority concepts. USA Fencing posts on its Facebook page the final bouts of our national events. Make a habit of watching those bouts and actively trying to make the call prior to the referee’s decision. Check out the FIE channel on YouTube. And actually practice refereeing those bouts using your hand signals. Refereeing priority is difficult, if you practice and get comfortable with the hand signals then, you will be able to referee your first few tournaments feeling less stressed and anxious. After testing, how do I prepare for refereeing my first tournament? Practice at your local club. Ask someone to video your refereeing, so you can review it with the best referees locally. This will help you feel more comfortable with your hand signals and also help reinforce the importance of positioning yourself to best see the bout and lights. Relevant rule: t.47.2 f Foil Priority Sample Questions Key: Visualize the actions that are described in the questions. Draw out the strip (as suggested earlier in this study guide) and break down the questions to the essence of what it is asking. F11. Fencer X makes a simple attack with advance-lunge while Fencer Y, who has been waiting to time X’s action, responds with an offensive action before the start of Fencer X’s lunge. Both fencers hit valid. What should the Referee do? A. Do not award any touch. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. C. Award a touch for Fencer Y. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 21 F12. Fencer X parries Fencer Y’s attack and makes an immediate compound riposte (with the arm extending during the feint), while Fencer Y makes a simple, direct remise. Both touches arrive on the valid surface within the same tempo. What should the Referee do? A. Award a touch for Fencer X. B. Award a touch for Fencer Y. C. Do not award a touch. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F13. No penalties have been given. Fencer Y executes an attack which results in an off target light on the scoring machine. The side judge observing Fencer X announces the touch made by Fencer Y occurred on Fencer X’s hand because he was covering valid target surface. The Referee believes that covering did not occur. What is the correct outcome? A. Only the Referee’s opinion is counted. There is no touch and no penalty in this case. B. Only the side judge’s opinion is counted. Award a touch for Fencer Y; Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. C. Due to disagreement, the side judge is replaced. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F14. Fencer X executes a beat attack that registers valid on the scoring machine. On the beat, Fencer Y’s foil registers an off target light on the scoring machine. What should the Referee do? A. Annul Fencer X’s touch. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD. C. Award a touch for Fencer X. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F15. Fencer X scores on Fencer Y with a direct attack. During the “halt” it is found that touches scored on Fencer X by Fencer Y do not register on the machine. What should the Referee do? A. Award a touch for Fencer X. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD. C. Annul Fencer X’s touch and call for the technician. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F16. Fencer X scores on Fencer Y with a direct attack and only a colored light for Fencer X registers on the scoring machine. During the “halt” it is found that valid touches scored on Fencer X by Fencer Y are registered as non-valid. What should the Referee do? A. Annul Fencer X’s touch. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. C. Annul Fencer X’s touch only if some fencing action occurred prior to the direct attack. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Priority Notes: __________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 22 F17. Fencer X attacks with a beat attack and a valid touch for Fencer X registers on the scoring machine. The beat attack breaks Fencer Y's blade and it registers off target on the scoring machine. What should the Referee do? A. Award a touch for Fencer X. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. Fencer Y receives a YELLOW CARD C. Do not award a touch. Fencer Y’s broken blade stops action. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F18. Fencer X begins an attack with a feint. Fencer Y momentarily follows the feint and then counter attacks and hits valid into Fencer X’s attack, which also lands valid. What should the Referee do? A. Award a touch for Fencer X. B. Award a touch for Fencer Y. C. Do not award a touch as it was a simultaneous action. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F19. Fencer X makes an attack that is parried. Fencer X then starts an immediate remise that lands valid before Fencer Y’s immediate riposte lands valid. What should the Referee do? A. Award a touch for Fencer X. B. Do not award a touch as it was a simultaneous action. C. Award a touch for Fencer Y. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F20. Fencer X starts a multiple feint attack. Fencer Y follows the feints. After Fencer X’s first feint, Fencer X’s arm is pulled back so that Fencer X’s elbow is touching Fencer X’s side. Fencer X finishes the action with the arm extending and Fencer Y counter attacks into the extension. Both land valid. What should the Referee do? A. Do not award a touch as it was a simultaneous action. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. C. Award a touch for Fencer Y. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F21. Fencer X makes an attack that is parried. Fencer Y makes an immediate riposte, while Fencer X makes an immediate remise while dropping his head so that his mask blocks the frontal target area. Fencer Y’s riposte misses and Fencer X’s remise arrives. What should the Referee do? A. Do not award a touch. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. C. Call “Halt!” place fencers on guard. Do not award a touch. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Priority Notes: __________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 23 F22. Fencer X makes an attack that is parried and Fencer Y makes an immediate riposte. Fencer X makes an immediate remise while leaning forward but with mask upright and facing forward. Fencer X’s remise arrives and Fencer Y’s riposte fails sliding down the front of Fencer X’s lamé. What should the Referee do? A. Call “Halt!”; Place fencers on guard. Do not award a touch. B. Do not award a touch. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. C. Award a touch for Fencer X. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F23. Fencer X makes an attack that fails. Fencer Y immediately attacks. With no pause, Fencer X immediately makes a redoublement. Both actions land on valid target. What should the referee do? A. Award a touch for Fencer Y. B. Do not award a touch. C. Award a touch for Fencer X. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F24. Fencer Y establishes point in line and Fencer X makes an attack against Fencer Y’s point in line without finding Fencer Y’s blade. At the final moment of Fencer X’s attack, Fencer Y advances. Both fencers hit valid target. What should the Referee do? A. Do not award a touch. B. Award a touch for Fencer X. C. Award a touch for Fencer Y. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ F25. Fencer X’s attack is short and fencer X recovers with a point in line position. After Fencer X has established the point in line, Fencer Y starts a double advance-lunge attack. Both register valid touches. What should the Referee do? A. Award a touch for Fencer X. B. Award a touch for Fencer Y. C. Award no touch. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Notes for Foil: __________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Concepts I need to review: _________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Questions I have for a CRI or CRO: __________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 24  Epee Study Guide Basics Key concepts: Though epee does not have the convention of priority, there are many important issues to ensure a well refereed bout. Knowing the rules is essential. Strip placement, passing rules, annulment rules, weapon testing, corps a corps, jostling, and fencer-requested test rules are all critical. Epee Halts: Early halts do a disservice to the athletes. It is essential to let them fence. Close distance fencing is allowed so long as the fencers can yield their weapons properly and are not body to body (corps a corps). The rules specify that “the Referee should not call “Halt” too soon, in order not to annul a possible riposte” (t.26.2). Important difference from foil and sabre: Not being able to follow the action is NOT a reason to call halt in epee. When an action happens: ALWAYS ask yourself, why did I call the halt? This will help you understand what your call is. It will help you tease out whether to allow or annul a touch. Cardinal Rule: ALWAYS WATCH THE FENCER WHO GOT HIT. You must watch that athlete until you resume the bout and it has effectively recommenced. If while you are watching that fencer, s/he does something that can alter their weapon or body cord, they are forfeiting the right to ask for a test. Examples: bending the blade excessively, pulling on their cord with force, twisting the barrel of the epee. You MUST watch the fencer who got hit, so you can either test and annul, or not test and re- start the bout. If they do something to alter the weapon; They can self-test as you will not be annulling the touch. This is one of the most important aspects of refereeing epee. Watch the fencer who got hit! Epee Equipment Basics (m.25, m30-31) An epee weight 750 ±3 grams. The spring in the tip must be able to push the epee weight up. The blade should be perpendicular to the ground, during the test. The maximum bend allowed is Less than one centimeter, located near the center of the blade and in one direction (no s-curves). Fencers must present themselves with an epee only mask (inspected if the tournament has control marks). No tape on a foil bib is acceptable. Each weapon has its own mask. Reminder: The jacket must overlap the pants by 10cm. Epee jacket must have a groin strap. Make sure there is nothing that can catch a tip. Examples: holes in uniform, gloves (not repaired properly or at all), no knee braces or ankle braces outside of uniform or socks, long hair (hair can’t cover a name, be a distraction, or catch a tip). Pre-bout tests for Epee Equipment During the preliminary weapon check prior to every bout: Count two tip screws AND ensure the barrel is tightly fastened to the blade. Place thin shim (.5mm) to test the travel depress tip NO LIGHT (on two angles). Important: do not keep the tip depressed when you change the angle because that wears the shim. Make sure the thick shim fits (1.5mm). Epee Weight onto tip (holding blade perpendicular to ground) depress tip, spring presses/ lifts the tip back up and light does not come back on. Look in guard and under guard pad. Each wire has its own insulation. There is NO TAPING wires to the guard (clear tape is ok- you need to be able to see the wire), NO taping or insulating the wires together. Referee must inspect the entirety of the wires down to the bell guard. Epee bell pad (i.e. fully covers wires) cannot be a foil bell pad. 25 Pre-bout checks (Continued) Ensure the fencer cannot create a contact with the wires or break them. Ensure that fencer can’t mess with (disconnect/ connect) the wires! Body cord securing device (fastener/ bail) is present and works. If ANY of these things are wrong, the fencer receives a Group 1 Yellow Card AND confiscate the weapon for the bout. Check the strip is grounded and free from holes. At local events make sure no one is in your referee space and that there are no tripping hazards for the fencers or referee. Fencer’s test the guards: each depressing the tip onto the guard of their opponent. There should be NO light on this test. After all these things you are ready to start the bout. If you have a grounded strip, check that the strip does not register a touch (ask one off the fencers to gently depress the tip to the strip). Best practices - do this: for your first bout of a pool (midway through the pool is a good idea), prior to a direct elimination about, and after the minute break. Check the cord retaining clip behind the fencer for the reel, to make sure it is working and in place. If a fencer asks for a test of the weapon and retaining clip is working and in place, you do not annul. If the retaining clip is broken, the touch is annulled. Epee Equipment and Basics Sample Questions E1. How are the shim gauges used to test the epee point? A. Insert the 1.5mm gauge, making sure it will fit; insert the 0.5mm gauge and depress the point, making sure it registers a touch. B. Insert the 1.5mm gauge, making sure it will fit; insert the 0.5mm gauge and depress the point, making sure it will not allow the registering of a touch. C. Make sure the 1.5mm gauge does not fit; insert the 0.5mm gauge and depress the point, making sure it will not allow the registering of a touch. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E2. May an epee be held by the pommel? A. Yes, always. B. Yes, but only if it is a French grip and not an orthopedic grip C. No. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E3. What should the referee check about the inside of an epee bell guard? A. The two epee wires must be soldered to the socket; there must be a security device for the body cord. B. The two epee wires must be contained in a single piece of insulated sheath and covered by a cushion (padding); there must be a security device for the body cord. C. The two epee wires must be individually covered with insulated sheaths and covered by a cushion (padding) sufficiently wide to protect the electric wires from the fencer’s fingers; there may be no covering (e.g., tape) on an orthopedic handle that could hide wires or switches; there must be a security device for the body cord; the connections must be so arranged so that it is impossible for the fencer to break or make contact with the wires while fencing. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 26 E3. May an epee be held by the pommel? D. Yes, always. E. Yes, but only if it is a French grip and not an orthopedic grip F. No. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E4. What is the maximum bend allowed in the epee blade? A. None, the blade must be perfectly straight. B. Less than 4 centimeters, located near the center of the blade. C. Less than 1 centimeter, located near the center of the blade. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E5. How may the epee blade be bent? A. Up or down. B. No bend is allowed. C. Down only. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E6. The spring in an epee point must push back a test weight of how many grams? A. 500 ±2 grams B. 750 ±3 grams C. 1000 ±4 grams Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E7. The Referee observes a small hole in the conductive strip while the bout is in progress. What should the Referee do? A. Wait until a normal halt and then have the hole repaired. B. Wait until the bout is complete and then have the hole repaired. C. Call “Halt!” and have the hole repaired. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E8. Both fencers attack simultaneously, but the light on the scoring machine shows that only Fencer X has been hit. Fencer X immediately presents their weapon for testing to the referee. While performing the tests, the referee notes that Fencer X’s body cord is unplugged in the back where it connects to the reel cord, and the retention device has broken off. What should the Referee do? A. Award Fencer Y’s touch. B. Annul Fencer Y’s touch. Have the retention device repaired or replaced before commencing. C. Plug the body cord back into the reel and continue the test. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Additional Epee Equipment Notes: __________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ 27 E9. Fencer X presents a weapon for inspection that has both wires inside the bell twisted together, and insulated in a single sheath of spaghetti tubing. The Referee should: A. Confiscate the weapon. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Allow the fencer to use the weapon if it passes shim, weight, and bell guard tests. C. Allow the fencer time to pull the wires out so they may be inspected properly. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E10. No preliminary weapons checks have been performed at the competition. In the first bout in a pool, Fencer X presents a weapon with a French grip that is bent at such an angle so that the end of the handle protrudes 3 cm beyond the bell guard. What should the Referee do? A. Confiscate the weapon, and have it checked by the experts. If the experts determine the weapon is illegal, Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Confiscate the weapon, and have it checked by the experts. If the experts determine the weapon is illegal, Fencer X receives a RED CARD. C. Give a visual inspection of the weapon on the strip. If the bend appears to be legal, allow Fencer X to use weapon. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ Epee Penalty Chart Basics (t.170) Use of the unarmed hand/arm is an immediate Red Card. (in all three weapons) There is NO covering target in epee. Equipment must be correctly functioning at the start of a bout, whether or not there was an inspection by the technical committee/ armorer prior. Non-conforming equipment presented to be used in a bout must function. Otherwise it is a Group 1 Yellow Card (or red if the fencer has already been issued a Group 1 card). Touching electrical equipment happens more frequently in epee. Epee fencers sometimes adjust their body cord after the referee says fence. Tip: During a pool roll call, the referee can remind the fencers that this is a Yellow Card. Hair must not be able to catch a tip, be a distraction, or cover the name on the back. In all three weapons, it is forbidden to cause body contact (corps a corps) to avoid being hit, which is a group 1 penalty. Key: watch for who moves last, that is likely to be the fencer that has caused the body contact. In foil and epee, a fencer is not allowed to touch outside the strip (creating a light) to cause a halt. Doing so is a group 2 penalty. If a fencer completes a fleche that results in a shock or jostling- s/he is issued a group 1 card. Epee Penalty Chart Sample Questions E11. No penalties have been given. Fencer X comes on the strip with their hair loose so that it conceals the fencer’s name on the back of their jacket. The fencer’s last name is only on the back of the jacket and not on the leg. What should the referee do? A. Allow Fencer X to fence with their hair down as their name is printed on the side of their mask B. Give Fencer X a YELLOW CARD and require them to tie their hair so that it will not conceal the name on the back of the jacket. C. Allow Fencer X time to acquire a hair tie, and tie their hair so that it does not conceal the name on the back. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 28 E12. Fencer X just received a YELLOW CARD and had his weapon confiscated for failing the weight test. Fencer X’s second weapon at the strip is missing one of the screws to hold the point in. What should the Referee do? A. Allow Fencer X to fence with the weapon, but advise Fencer X that a touch by their opponent cannot be annulled if Fencer X’s point comes out during the bout. B. Allow Fencer X to fence with the weapon if Fencer X’s opponent agrees; Fencer X receives another YELLOW CARD. C. Fencer X receives a RED CARD; confiscate the second weapon; Fencer X must get another weapon. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E13. With no penalties given, Fencer X appears at the strip with a weapon that has no retainer to secure the body cord to the weapon. What should the Referee do? A. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD; confiscate the equipment. Fencer X must get another weapon B. Allow Fencer X to fence with the weapon, but advise Fencer X that a touch made by their opponent cannot be annulled if Fencer X’s body cord becomes unplugged. C. Allow Fencer X to fence with the weapon if Fencer X’s opponent agrees. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E14. No penalties have been given. A fencer presents to strip with a mask that has a conductive bib for foil. The fencer had carefully taped over most of the lamé material with plastic tape. What should the Referee do? A. Confiscate the mask for non-conformance. The fencer must get another mask without a conductive bib. The fencer receives a YELLOW CARD. B. Allow the fencer to wear the foil mask as long as the tape stays in place. C. Perform a test before each bout to see to make sure the opponents tip will not create a localized ground. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E15. No penalties have been given. Fencer X drags the point of the epee along the strip while retreating. What should the Referee do? A. Call “Halt!”; Fencer X receives a RED CARD. B. Allow fencing to continue because the point is being dragged, not pushed C. Call “Halt!”; Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E16. No penalties have been given, Fencer X intentionally touches the ground outside the conductive strip to cause a halt. What should the referee do? A. Fencer X receives a RED CARD. B. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD or, if the touch occurred during the last minute of the bout, a RED CARD. C. Fencer X receives a RED CARD. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ 29 Additional Notes for Epee Penalty Chart: _____________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Epee Actions Basics Reminder: A fencer with one foot off of the SIDE of the strip is a “halt.” Reminder: If a fencer has one foot off the side of the strip, that fencer loses ONE meter from the start of the attack. If the fencer is less than one meter from the back end of the strip (meaning they are deep into their two-meter warning), it can place the fencer off of the back of the strip and award a touch to the opponent. If a fencer has one foot off the lateral (side) boundary of the strip, that fencer can score provided the action is started before the “halt.” Both feet off the side of the strip, has the same applications of losing one meter. Both feet off of the rear limits is a touch for the opponent. If the referees halt is for a fencer leaving the rear limits, that fencer’s touch is annulled, but s/he can be scored upon, provided the action began before the “halt.” In all three weapons, it is forbidden to cause body contact (corps a corps) to avoid being hit, which is a group 1 penalty. Epee Annulments If a fencer completes a fleche that results in a shock or jostling- s/he is issued a group 1 card. Corps a corps, even systematically but without jostling or without avoiding a touch is allowed. If both tips of the epee meet and create a light or lights, the touch(es) are annulled. Fencer requested test of weapon: When a fencer requests a test of his/her weapon the referee must check that the body cord behind the fencer is properly connected, the body cord at the weapon is properly connected. Check that the fencer has not obviously disconnected the wires in the guard with his/her fingers. Lastly check that the barrel is tight. If all of these checks, are correct, then the referee controls the weapon and depresses the tip once. If the epee does not work, then the referee should annul the test. If the fencer alters anything before presenting to the referee, the referee does not annul the touch. (t.56) If a fencer asks for a test of the weapon and retaining clip is working and in place, you do not annul. If the retaining clip is broken, the touch is annulled. The failure must be established by tests made immediately after the bout was stopped, under the supervision of the Referee and without changing anything whatever of the equipment in use. (t.56.2) Doubtful touch: If a double touch is registered by an established touch and a doubtful touch (failure of the electrical apparatus, cf. t.93) the fencer who has made the established touch may choose to accept the double touch or ask to have it annulled. If a double touch is registered and one touch is valid and the other is not valid (such as a touch made on the floor or a touch made off the strip, only the valid touch is scored. If time elapses and the score is tied. The referee must determine priority (flip a coin or use the “dice” button on the remote). If at the end of that minute there is no decisive touch, the fencer who got priority wins. During the extra minute of time double touches are annulled. Halts for a blade breaking stop everything. Nothing begun after a blade break can count as a touch. Unless the breaking of the blade has occurred clearly after the touch has been registered. Safety is one of the referee’s highest responsibility. (t.56.7) 30 Epee Actions and Annulments Sample Questions E17. No penalties have been given. Fencer X has systematically caused corps à corps, but without jostling, and without avoiding a touch. What is the correct outcome? A. Fencer X receives a YELLOW CARD B. There is no penalty, but call “Halt!” only if both fencers cease offensive action. C. There is no penalty, but call “Halt!” when body contact occurs; any touch scored with an action which started after the corps à corps will not be awarded Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E18. Fencer X attacks with a flèche and lands with both feet off the strip just before his point hits Fencer Y. Fencer Y had started a counter attack that hits Fencer X before Fencer X left the strip. The machine indicates a double touch. What should the Referee do? A. No touch awarded. B. Award a touch for Fencer Y. C. Award a double touch. Answer: (____). Notes: ______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________Relevant Rule(s): ____________ E19. The bout score is 0-0. Fencer Y m