Thanks to the FIE, the international fencing federation, we have some new rules to contend with this season:

One Foot off the side of the strip: Any fencer who systematically crosses the lateral boundary of the strip with one foot, whether intentionally or unintentionally, will be penalized under the rules for delay of bout.

Coaching: The giving of advice or other verbal instruction to fencers during the bout is prohibited only if, in the opinion of the referee, it causes a disturbance of order. Spectators (that means everyone but the referee, the two fencers, and the timer/ scorekeeper) must stay behind the end lines.

Salute: Both fencers are required to salute before and at the end of each bout. A handshake will satisfy this requirement at the end of the bout.

Undressing on strip: It is prohibited for fencers to remove any article of clothing on the strip, even to change the body cord.

Signing the Score Sheet: Immediately after the end of a pool or a direct elimination bout, the fencers must sign the pool or bout score sheet, under the observation of the Referee.

In saber, the armed hand, from the wrist bone to the tips of the fingers is no longer target (in other words, the metallic overglove is no longer used).

At all National Competitions (NAC’s, JO’s, National Championships) and any qualifying competitions, all saber blades must be marked with the Year 2000 logo and must conform to the new FIE standards for stiffer blades. Except for qualifying competitions, the new blades are not required at local events.

These stiffer saber blades will be required for all USFA competitions, including local events, effective next season.