Code of Conduct

Charlottesville Fencing Alliance strives to create a family atmosphere.  We welcome all fencers regardless of race, religion, orientation, age or economic status.  Everyone that uses our facility must adhere to our code of conduct, and is expected to hold one another to these standards. By using our facilities, you agree to abide by this code and be subject to its disciplinary provisions. We expect you to show respect for our fencers, coaches, visitors, staff, facility and the rules of fencing. We expect you to be of good will with one another when differences arise and be generous and flexible as we strive to meet the needs of all our fencers.

1. Fencers and spectators (including parents) must behave in a sportsmanlike manner at all times. This includes but is not limited to the following specific prohibitions:

Swearing
Name calling or negative talk
Throwing equipment
Hitting or kicking the floor or walls
Misuse of equipment
Fencers who continue to violate these guidelines after being warned may be required to discontinue fencing for a period of time.

2. Extreme unsportsmanlike conduct comparable to that which might result in a black card at a tournament will not be tolerated. SUCH BEHAVIOR WILL RESULT IN YOUR BEING REQUIRED TO LEAVE THE FACILITY IMMEDIATELY. Examples include, but are not limited to:

Dangerously throwing equipment
Willful damage to club property
Dangerous or vindictive fencing
Shouting matches
Fighting
Threats
Extreme unsportsmanlike conduct
Failure to follow the directives of the manager, coach or board member on duty.

3. Fencers whose behavior results in expulsion (2 above), receive a black card in a CFA tournament, or whose behavior is particularly egregious are subject to temporary or permanent suspension from the club and will be prohibited from the use of the facilities. The CFA Board of Directors will review all occurances at their next meeting and fencers may appeal suspensions to the Board of Directors. The Board’s decision will be final.

4. In addition to developing fencers, CFA also endeavors to develop respect and sportsmanship in all walks of life.  Athletes should understand that membership in the club does not stop at the door, and the respect, tolerance and sportsmanship required of club members extends into day to day life. 

5. When differences of opinions arise, fencers are expected to resolve such differences quickly, quietly and with an eye towards finding a solution that satisfies both parties. Be of good will.

6. CFA members will not strip coach or offer advice against other members of the club to those not members of CFA.  In tournaments when two CFA fencers are competing, CFA fencers or coaches will not offer advice to either athlete.

7. CFA members understand that there are many different goals amongst our fencers.  Our members respect and encourage fencing of all kinds and at all levels, be they competitive, recreational, historic or casual.

8. Mentoring and peer level support is an important part of what makes CFA the family organization.  As such our athletes will strive to assist other members in developing their skills as fencers.

9. While we are a family group, our primary goal is to train towards becoming the best fencers that we can.  Members understand that they should strive to use their training time wisely and to its greatest advantage.

10. As part of membership acceptance all fencers, both adult and youth will read this Code of Conduct sign an agreement to abide by these rules.

Please help promote the sport and the club in the best manner possible.  Spread the word and grow the sport we love!

Acknowledgement – Adapted in part from the Boston Fencing Club website, with appreciation.

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