ARMA's International Gathering 2003

Prize Playing Event

Stressing the value of free-play or sparring, ARMA tests its senior students in public using a variety of training tools. Following from the model of 16th century English Company of Masters of Defence and German public Fechtschulen displays, we emphasize our senior members demonstrate their skills and prowess in serious free-play against their fellows. Because historical fencing skill is more than just technical knowledge of principles and concepts, but about adversarial application, every practitioner seeking proficiency must be tested in mock combat. Here two earn their ARMA ranking certification in longsword. In their separate events, both fighters engaged in more than 80 consecutive matches in just over 65 minutes against more than 25 opponents in two single-hit bouts each, helmed and unhelmed with padded contact weapons, wasters, and blunt steel. This was no "tournament" game of scoring points to "win" a contest, but a test and evaluation of ability to execute techniques and apply principles adversarially. In front of their peers they proved their prowess and skill with great respect, control, proficiency, and athleticism.

Major Timothy Sheetz begins his Senior Free Scholar Prize Playing testing for longsword. Tim's strength, intensity, and power proved very effective and challenging for everyone. Tim showed the best of ARMA in his bouts using the fullest range of skills, especially seizures and grappling.

Jacob Norwood of Provo begins his Senior Free Scholar Prize Playing testing for longsword.. Jake's speed, reach, and skillful technique impressed everyone. Jake reflected the highest standard of ARMA teachings in his skillful blows and excellent use of counter-strikes.

 

Additional new photos

Videos


Jake N. makes a clean hit
AVI / MP4

Jake N. plays against Bart W.
AVI / MP4

Jake N. plays against Stacy C.
AVI / MP4

Jake N. against Gene T.
AVI / MP4

In his Prizing, Tim S. makes a quick charge to close against Eric W.
AVI / MP4

Tim S. shows his skill
AVI / MP4

Tim S. & his opponent exchange attacks
AVI / MP4

Tim S. catches Shane S. with a blow
AVI / MP4

Tim S. & Stu F. clash with blunt steel
AVI / MP4
 

In his Prize Playing bouting Jake N. strikes a mean leg blow
AVI / MP4
 
 
 

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