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During
the demonstration, Truvey Fielder explained the history
of swordplay and explained what the members were doing. |
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Sydney
began by demonstrating a flouryshe, an exhibition of a
warrior's repertoire of offensive and defensive techniques.
Performed without an opponent, it looks similar to the
Asian kata. However, it is more akin to shadow boxing,
as it has no set sequence of moves. |
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Kyle
and Mike demonstrated some of the various drills and exercises
we use for training. The kids were taught that no matter
what sport or skill you were trying to learn, it all worked
the same. Learn the basics until you have mastered them,
then practice, practice, practice! |
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Here
Erich and Sydney demonstrate the touch drill, another
of our basic exercises. Each pretends that his hand
and upper arm is a sword, and tries to touch his opponent.
Properly
done, the touch drill improves the warrior's speed,
reflexes, and general skill with a weapon.
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Our
club is all about combat and fighting, so what would a
demonstration been without a couple of "knock-down-drag-outs?" |
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Variations
in combat were demonstrated as well. Here Kyle and Mike
square off against each other in a historically common
bout; sword and buckler against sword and dagger. |
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Members
explained the different swords and showed them close-up
to the kids.
Virtually
all the kids got a chance to handle either a wooden
waster or a blunted steel sword. Most were amazed at
how light and maneuverable they were.
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It
was a very enjoyable and satisfying day for all of us. |
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