Ranking Systems

[DesertFencer]

I'd like some input on ranking systems. I met some coaches at the 06 CC that used them in their clubs, but we didn't have time to discuss it in detail.

Some clubs have a system of bands, patches etc. that show the fencer's level of skill.

I'd be interested in knowing how the system is organized, tested, etc.

[RITFencing]

There should be links to the canadian system around here... I can definitely see a use for something similar for younger kids who aren't competing yet, and haven't really developed fully to have something to give them a sense of accomplishment and progress, but personally I'd feel a bit odd if my coach started giving people around my age (mid 20s) and older who have been fencing nationally for a while special rank patches.

I don't really like to think of it as a ranking thing, really. More like a merit badge thing. You can do this stuff, you get the badge. It doesn't mean that the people without it have to defer to you or that you get increased status or whatever... it's just a form of recognition that you learned something, and it can also help provide a clear progression of skills, which is very important and can be very hard for coaches to set up.

[darius]

http://www.fencing.ca/coaching_manua...ach_manual.pdf

The armband stuff is at the end, but the whole thing is a good read.

darius

[DesertFencer]

I think this is just the armband link:

http://www.fencing.ca/downloads/armband_program_eng.pdf

I appreciate the input. We're considering this to help motivate the younger fencers.

[RITFencing]

I think this is just the armband link:

http://www.fencing.ca/downloads/armband_program_eng.pdf

I appreciate the input. We're considering this to help motivate the younger fencers.

I think it or something like it can definitely be a great motivator for pre competition fencers to help them stay focussed and motivated while learning skills without going off to Y-10 and Y-12 events and learning all the crap the kids use to succeed there and then plateau.

Note: I am not saying all Y-10 and -12 fencers suffer from this, but, from what I have reffed, many do.

[Durando]

It is pretty hard to underestimate the positive effect a badge or armband system has on younger fencers. You even see cadets still wearing them. I don't know how the Canadian system works but the French give an exam at the end of the year. It isn't hard but it is a little stressful. The end result is that your younger fencers have a common list of terms and a general understanding of the sport adapted to their level which makes teaching them all the more easy. (The F.F.E. has put together a very nice four-color study guide for all badge levels.) Were I teaching in the States, I would try to get the USFA to adopt a similar system and, in the mean time, rip off the Canadians for my own club.

[ysbadadden]

(The F.F.E. has put together a very nice four-color study guide for all badge levels.) Were I teaching in the States, I would try to get the USFA to adopt a similar system and, in the mean time, rip off the Canadians for my own club.

Do you have a link to the FFE materials?