[Ansteorra] Martial reopening recap

[Earl Marshal]

Greetings unto the kingdom,

  On Monday I had an open session to discuss the current state of Ansteorra’s martial activities. There was good attendance and discussions on various topics.

The website will always have the latest information:
      https://ansteorra.org/martial-kingdom/ansteorra-martial-practices-reopen-plan/

Key reopening items:
	• Face masks covering the mouth and nose are required at all times. 
		• Solid barriers are not considered equivalent. 
	• Outdoor martial activities only. 
	• SCA branches can only provide commercially prepackaged water.  (See branch Seneschal for any other clarifications)
	• SCA loaner equipment may only be used by a single person at an event or practice. Afterwards it must be properly disinfected per CDC guidance. 
	• A roster of attendees with name and phone and/or email must be gathered and sent to branch Seneschal. (New information)

General discussion occurred.
	• Combatants who haven’t been training in masks need to.
	• Not all masks work inside fencing masks or helms. 
	• Chin straps can cause a lot of frustration getting the helm and mask right. 
	• The 3D printed spacers and some masks can extend too far causing issues. 
	• Recommend a mask that stands off the face a little as simple cloth masks can be inhaled into the mouth triggering a fear of choking sensation. 
	• Coming off the field after an intense bout can take longer to recover because of the psychological side-effects some have.
	• It is unknown when the SCA will align with the new CDC guidance, but likely not soon given we’re not checking vaccinations for participants. 

Combatants and marshals need to be aware that for most, it’s been more than a year and the skill and expectations need to be relearned. 
	• Calibration may be too hard or too light, so talk more and error on the side of caution. 
	• Your gear needs to have some love and care, clean it up and check it over for safety. 
	• Check to see if your fighting clothes and armor still fit, look for holes and rotted fabric or leather. 
	• Take time to practice on a list field instead of infinite field. 
	• Practice calling hold, especially if you have list markers. Many people may not call it soon enough. That said, don’t call it early as this may be a strategic advantage the combatants are trying for.

Ask your event stewards to make time available in the morning for authorization sessions. While practices are generally resumed, not everyone has been able to arrange with an Authorizing Marshal. 

Youth Combat and Youth Rapier are still on hold, but may open as vaccination groups are approved. At this time there are less than 12 across both fields, but due to age groups some are likely to have expired. No Youth Marshal is required for adult targeted activities including armored combat, rapier combat, target archery nor thrown weapons. 

Minors eligible to age up to adult rapier (14) or armored (16) can train at practices with the adults assuming a parent or guardian is present and aware of the martial activity. When a minor is prepared to be authorized, work through the Kingdom Armored Marshal, Sir Absolon, or Kingdom Rapier Marshal, Master Ettiene. 

Phelim Gervase call Pug | Marshal at Ansteorra.org | Kingdom at Marshal.Ansteorra.org
Earl Marshal - Kingdom of Ansteorra