Longsword
Long Sword Tournament Objectives and Guidelines
The primary objectives of this tournament are to offer a competitive platform that caters to participants of diverse skill levels. The fundamental intent is to foster methodical engagement among competitors, focusing on genuine combat rather than strategizing around rule nuances.
Promotion of Skillful Combat: The essence of this tournament lies in encouraging participants to engage in skillful combat that embraces strategic thinking over rule manipulation.
Keep in mind that matches are timed, and progressing in the tournament depends not just on winning a single bout, but on accumulating points across all your matches. The key to advancement is maximizing your score throughout the tournament, and not simply defeating an individual opponent, but consistently performing at a high level.
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Tournaments prioritize targets over right-of-way fencing
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Rules sets subject to change, if there are any major issues discovered. Tournament rules could be updated until a month before the event.
SCORING ACTIONS AND TARGET SPECIFICATIONS
In order to make judging easier, all legal targets are considered "DEEP" or "SHALLOW." Target classification is defined below. Rules favor “DEEP” targets
Target Definitions
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DEEP
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The head, neck, and torso
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SHALLOW
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Shoulder to hand, hips to shins
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Points - The following table shows how points are calculated based on the type of strike.
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Target
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Cut
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Thrust
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Pommel
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DEEP
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4
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4
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4
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SHALLOW
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2
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2
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0
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Point Details
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Understanding Targets
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Recognize "SHALLOW" areas, including regions below the waist and arms (shoulder to hand). Everything else is a "DEEP" target
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Disarm
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A disarm will count as a “DEEP” strike
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Strike Standards
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Ensure strikes meet specific criteria for points. Thrusts require weapon flex and must extend beyond accidental touch. Cuts should be purposeful with proper edge alignment
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Effective Striking
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While there are no strict power or rotation rules, focus on martial intent and effectiveness. Strikes lacking these elements may not count toward your score
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Improper Contact
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Prevent uncontrolled movements leading to accidental blade contact, like flailing or "draw cuts," as these won't score points
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Pommel Strikes
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Use pommel strikes exclusively on the mask's front mesh. Avoid hitting the target's arm or sword, as this won't earn points. Hitting other mask parts is not allowed
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One-Handed
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(Long Sword) - Showcase one-handed cuts and thrusts with control and quality for points. Maintain the required level of proficiency
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THE GRAPPLE
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2 Tempo
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Upon a grapple there is 2 tempos to complete a scoring action
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Clock continues
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Regardless of the outcome the clock doesn't stop
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Stop grapple
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If no score within 2 tempos judge will call no-exchange
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