March NAC Guide

March NAC Schedule

The Cleveland North American Cup is almost upon us! As a result, the club will be closed on Saturday, March 2nd. Over 20 HoF members will be competing in events that include Y10, Y12, Y14, and Division 3! I would encourage any of our newer fencers to check out the tournament, which will be at the Cleveland Convention Center from March 1-4. You can find the schedule and details about the event here . For more information, you can also view the athlete packet and US Fencing's guide for parents . First-time competitors, you should plan to be at the venue at the beginning of your start time--for example, if your check-in is listed as 7am-8am, you should be at the venue by 7am.

Spectator Tickets

As of the 2018/19 season, spectators to national events (including parents, siblings, etc.) must purchase tickets to the event. The cost is $5 per day, or $15 for a weekend pass. It seems that US Fencing is using a new system at this NAC, where tickets must be purchased online . If you are a competitive or supporting member of USFA, you do not need to purchase tickets. Parents, you do have the option to become a supporting member for $25 per year. This can be a savings if you attend multiple national events a year. However, be aware that the fencing year ends on August 1, so any membership purchased at this time will expire on that date. That said, Summer Nationals will be in Columbus in June/July, so it could be worth it if you plan to attend both events.

Equipment Check

As with all tournaments, fencers are required to have their mask, glove, and body cords inspected prior to competing. This can often involve a very long line, which can cut into time better spent stretching and warming up. I typically advise all fencers to have their equipment checked the day before they compete. It's also a good idea to see the venue before showing up to fence. For fencers competing on Friday morning--equipment check will be open from 3-6pm on Thursday, February 29. Get your stuff checked in advance and skip the line! Equipment only needs to be inspected once for the weekend.

Names on Jackets

At all national events, competing fencers are required to have their name on the back of the fencing jacket. If you do not, there are vendors on site who provide this service. If you are fencing only on Saturday, Sunday, or Monday, you should plan to come to the venue a day early and have your name printed. If you are fencing on Friday morning, you have a couple options. It may be possible to have your name printed on Thursday during the equipment check window (3pm-6pm). It may also be possible to have it done early Friday morning before the event. If neither of these pan out, Johnny and I will be there Friday morning and we can discuss a last-minute fix.

Competition Weapons

Fencers are required to have a minimum of 2 weapons and 2 bodycords. If you are fencing this weekend and do not own the required equipment, be sure to rent weapons and bodycords from HoF this week! The cost to rent equipment is $15 per set of weapon and bodycord.

Good luck to all our fencers!

-Nick