Youth Armoured Combat Draft:Handbook

Introduction/ Overview

1. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Introduction/ Overview
2. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Mission & Goals
3. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:General Conventions
4. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Parent Section
5. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Participants' Section
6. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Authorisation Requirements
7. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Rules of the Lists and Conventions of Combat
8. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Melee Conventions
9. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Individual engagement
10. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:The Use of Weapons and Shields
11. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Acknowledgment of Blows
12. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Armor Requirements
13. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Weapons Standards
14. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Marshall's Section
15. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Authorization of Marshals
16. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Two-Deep Policy:
17. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Adult Training of Youth at Official SCA Activities
18. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Injury Procedures
19. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Youth Armoured Combat Authorizations
20. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Marshal Responsibilities, Chain of Command, and Reporting
21. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Experimentation
22. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Revocation of Authorisations
23. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Procedures for Changes to These Rules

1. Youth_Armoured_Combat_Draft:Glossary

Mission & Goals

The mission of Youth Martial programs is to provide a safe and fun environment where the youth of the SCA can participate in martial activities, mirroring adult Armored Combat at a level appropriate to their age. The goal is to introduce and reinforce the ideals of chivalry, honor, courtesy, service, and heraldic pageantry, both on and off the list field.

The program stresses good sportsmanship and parental participation. It is designed to allow the youth to learn more about all aspects of the Society and above all,

HAVE FUN!

General Conventions

These rules set fundamental standards for minors, ages 6 through 17, participating in youth martial activities in Lochac, procedures for youth combatant authorization, and the warranting of marshals, based on the rules of the SCA. All fighters, parents, and marshals are responsible for knowing these rules to participate in Lochac

These rules are designed to promote safe youth armoured combat in the Kingdom. However, no matter how clear or accurate, rules cannot replace common sense, good judgment, and concern for the participants. If a question arises when applying these standards, choose the answer that promotes the greatest degree of safety for all participants.

These rules and guidelines apply to all Youth Armoured Combat activity age divisions. Specific differences between the divisions are addressed in the appropriate sections.

The basic rules for SCA martial combat are contained in the “###Society Marshal’s Handbook”. Those guidelines apply to Youth Armoured Combat activities unless superseded by this document.

Parent Section

Definitions

 Minors are defined as anyone who has not reached the age of legal majority, this is 18 years throughout Lochac
 The term “Parent”, as used in this document, includes the biological parents, adoptive parents, or any court appointed legal guardian.

Participation

Legal requirements

  * The Society of Creative Anachronism (SCA), being SCA Ltd in Australia and SCA NZ in New Zealand, will act in accordance with all legislation pertaining to working with children that may apply in the relevant jurisdiction. 
  * It is the responsibility of all persons participating in Youth Armoured Combat activities to ensure that all the SCA Ltd policies in Australia and all SCANZ policies in New Zealand as well as Kingdom Law are followed. 
  * SCAAU policies may be found at http://sca.org.au/board/documents/policy; 
  * SCANZ policies maybe found at http://www.sca.org.nz/documents; and 
  * Kingdom Law may be found at http:// lochac.sca.org/laws/
  * Parental involvement and participation is a critical component of the Youth Armoured Combat program.
  * Parents must understand these are contact sports and that injuries may occur.
  * Parents are ultimately responsible for the safety and well-being of their children and assume all risks and liabilities for any harm or medical condition arising from the youth’s participation in these activities. This legal requirement cannot be delegated to the SCA or to the marshals on the list field. The assumption of responsibility shall be signified by completion of all legal documents required by the SCA, Lochac, and owners of event sites.
  * Minors participating in Youth Armoured Combat activities must either have a parent, or in Australia (only) the legal guardian must formalise the appointment of the Nominated Caregiver using the "Appointment of Nominated Caregiver form" which may be found at ###http://lochac.SCA.org/constable/.

Membership

Neither the parent nor the child are required to be members of the SCA to participate in Youth Armoured Combat activities. The parent's permission to participate is required.

Parental Responsibilities

  * Youth Martial activities will NOT be used as a babysitting service.
  * A parent or responsible adult must remain within sight and sound of the Youth Armoured Combat list field when the child is participating if the child is under 10 years old.
  * Parents have the right and responsibility to remove their child from any contest or activity they may deem inappropriate or hazardous.
  * A Parent shall have witnessed Youth Armoured Combat, or be present at the first training session, before their child may participate.
  * Parents are required to read and understand these rules and standards and make sure that their child follows them.
  * Parents are encouraged to become Youth Marshals.
  * Adults watching Youth Armoured Combat activities shall act in a courteous manner toward the combatants, marshals, and other parents. Adults demonstrating inappropriate behavior will be asked to leave the Youth Armoured Combat area. This may result in their child having to withdraw from that day’s activity. 

Participants' Section

Divisional Definitions

Participation in Lochac Youth Armored Combat is three divisions, based on age, armor, and weapons. 
The age ranges are:
  *Division 1 : Ages 6-9
  *Division 2: Ages 10-13
  *Division 3: Ages 14-17
The listed age range for each division is not absolute. The Marshalate recognizes that some youth will be very small or very large for their age, and that some will mature earlier or later than others. Younger combatants may be moved to a higher division or older combatants may be allowed to remain in a lower division, on a case-by-case basis, at the request of the parent and with the approval of the marshals.
Acknowledging that there might be a limited number of youth combatants at an event or practice, combatants may fight others in another division with the following provisions:
 * Permission of the combatant’s parent or responsible adult.
 * Permission of the Youth Armoured Combat Marshal-in-Charge.
 * Older combatants must adhere to the weapon standards, calibration, and rules of the younger combatants being fought (e.g. Division 2 combatants may fight a Division 1 combatant at Division 1 calibration with Division 1 weapons).
 * Society rules allow a minor, aged at least 16, to authorize in adult armored combat. Minors may continue to fully participate in Youth Armoured Combat while training for adult combat. When minors become authorized in adult Heavy Combat, they will be deemed to have graduated from Youth Armoured Combat and are not eligible to participate in Youth Combat tournaments, except as bye fighters (i.e. not eligible for prizes). They may still participate in Youth Armoured Combat training activities and are encouraged to become Youth Armoured Combat Marshals and/or Youth Armoured Combat Sparring Partners. Parents may always spar with their own children. See paragraph ### "Adult Training of Youth at Official SCA Activities" in the Marshal's Section for more information.

Authorisation Requirements

Youth combatants must authorize to fight in tournaments at SCA events. After their initial authorization, they must re-authorize at each division change. 
To authorise, youth combatants must be observed fighting, to verify that that they understand and follow the rules and are safe on the field. 
   =====They must be seen to:====
      * Identify the legal and illegal target areas on the body. 
      * Demonstrate losing an arm or leg. 
      * Demonstrate dying defensively. 
      * Throw a calibration blow at another, more experienced fighter, and verify that the blow used appropriate force. If another youth fighter is not available, have the authorizing fighter strike your marshal’s staff. 
      * Spend several minutes sparring with an experienced youth fighter. 
      * Fight a formal bout against an experienced youth fighter, including dying defensively if they are killed.
====The authorising marshal should look for the following behaviors:==== 
      *       Blows struck with appropriate calibration levels 
      *       Acceptance of received blows of appropriate force 
      *       Adherence to rules 
      *       Confidence in the list; not running away from opponents or ducking in fear at incoming blows 

NB: Youth fighters do not have to be skilled to be authorized, they just need to be safe.

      *   Youth fighters may authorize up a division before they reach the listed age if parents and authorising marshal agree that they are ready, based on their skill and size. 

Rules of the Lists and Conventions of Combat

         Rules of the List and Conventions of Combat as listed in the “SCA Marshal’s Handbook,” apply to Youth Combat unless superseded by a rule in this document.

Conventions may be modified for a specific tournament with the full explanation of the changes given to all of the combatants.

         All combatants shall adhere to the minimum armor and weapons standards for their division
         All youth combatants shall ensure their armor and weapons are inspected by a Youth Combat Marshal prior to combat at each and every SCA – sponsored event or fighting practice.
         A marshal may disallow use of any weapon, or armor, deemed to be unsafe from use upon the field of combat.
         All combatants shall act in a courteous and chivalrous manner at all times.
         No one may be required to participate in combat related Activities.
         No weapons shall be thrown within the Lists of a tournament. The use of approved thrown weapons for melee shall conform to the appropriate Kingdom Conventions of Combat.
     Behavior on the Field
         Striking an opponent with excessive force is forbidden.
         The instructions of the marshals on the field shall be followed at all times.
         Should a safety issue arise the marshal will call “HOLD” and all combat activity in the list will stop until the marshal indicates that it is safe to resume.
         Each fighter shall maintain control over his or her temper at all times.
         Any behavior that takes deliberate advantage of an opponent’s chivalry or safety-consciousness, or that takes deliberate unfair advantage of an opponent, is prohibited.
         A fighter shall not deliberately strike a helpless opponent.
         Any fighter who obtains an unfair advantage by repeatedly becoming “helpless” (for example, by falling down or losing their weapon) may, after being duly warned by the marshals on the field, be forced to yield the fight at the next occurrence of such behavior.
         Grappling, tripping, throwing, punching, kicking, and wrestling are prohibited.
         Deliberately striking an opponent with a shield (shield bashing) is forbidden.
         Grasping an opponent’s person, shield, or weapon is prohibited.
         Target Areas
             Legal target areas are the same as those in adult rattan combat, except face thrusts are not allowed in Division 1. 
             Shots to the groin and throat are legal, but discouraged.
         Acknowledgement of Blows

Calibration

 Division 1 : Intentional Touch. This is a clean, unimpeded blow that is

readily felt through a single layer of medium weight cloth, but is not hard enough to leave a bruise on bare skin. Face thrusts are not allowed.

Division 2: Positive Contact. This is a clean, unimpeded blow that is

readily felt through 6 mm of open cell padding, but is not hard enough to leave a bruise in an area covered by medium weight cloth. Face thrusts have touch calibration.

Division 3: Light Force. This is a clean, unimpeded blow that may be

readily felt through 12 mm of open cell padding, but is not hard enough to leave a bruise through 6 mm of open cell foam padding. Face thrusts have touch calibration.

It is recommended that marshals use open cell foam of the appropriate

thickness to demonstrate levels of calibration.

Excessively hard blows are not permitted in any division. Any combatant

who persists in hitting too hard after appropriate warning shall be removed from the field and may be subject to additional sanctions such as having their authorization suspended.

Youth combatants are encouraged to honorably judge the effectiveness of blows

they receive. The opposing combatant may not judge the effectiveness of his or her own blow. Information unavailable to the combatant being struck may be supplied by the opposing combatant or the marshal, including blade orientation upon impact, apparent force transmitted, or apparent location and angle of the blow’s impact based upon the observer’s angle of observation. When necessary, the marshal on the field shall intervene and call blows.

Special tournaments or combat rules may redefine what areas of the body

are armored, and to what extent, so long as all the participants are made aware of the special conditions prior to the start of combat.

An effective blow will be defined as one that was properly oriented, and struck

with sufficient force.

The minimum effective thrusting blow to the face shall be a touch. A

correctly calibrated face thrust touches the face grill of the helm but does not move the head.

Areas deemed illegal to strike: the hands from 1.0 inch (25.4 mm) above

the wrist and below, the legs from 1.0 inch (25.4 mm) above the knees and below; shall be considered safe from all attack.

An effective blow to the head, neck, or torso shall be judged fatal or

completely disabling, rendering the fighter incapable of further combat.

An effective blow to the arm above the wrist will disable the arm. The arm

shall then be considered useless to the fighter and may not be used for either offense or defense. A second blow to a disabled arm is considered to have struck the torso.

An effective blow to the leg above the knee will disable the leg. The

fighter must then fight kneeling, sitting, or standing on the foot of the uninjured leg.

The minimum effective blow from any THROWN weapon is touch.

Javelins, used as one-handed thrusting weapons, require the same force as any other thrusting weapon appropriate for that division.

When judging the outcome of a delivered blow, all fighters are expected to take

into account the nature of the weapon being used by their opponent and the location of the point of impact of that weapon. A blow that strikes with sufficient force and proper orientation shall be considered effective, regardless of what it hits prior to striking the combatant.

A blow that includes the dropping of the striking weapon, at the moment of

impact, shall not be counted.

Melee Conventions

         Youth fighters may only charge to gain ground. They may not intentionally run into their opponents.
         Thrown weapons may be used in a melee scenario provided that all marshals and combatants are informed of their use before the melee begins.
         Deliberately striking from behind without gaining engagement is forbidden.
         No more than four fighters shall attack a single opponent except in the case of engaged units.
         Rules of Engagement 
             Unit engagement 
                 Unit engagement happens when two or more coherent units of opposing heavy combatants meet in combat. 
                 In unit engagement, all combatants who are part of each unit are considered to be engaged with all combatants who are part of of the other unit(s). 
                 In unit engagement, combatants who are part of a unit may strike at members of opposing units, who are to their front or side, without being considered to be “behind” or on their “blind side”.
                 If a unit loses coherency, combatants from that unit are considered to have left the unit engagement and must be engaged as an individual, as per the “Individual engagement” rules below.  
                 In any circumstance other than that outlined in 4.3.2.4###, striking an opponent from behind is cause for ejection from the field, and may be cause for further disciplinary action. 4.3.2 ###

Individual engagement

                 In tournament melee combat, a combatant shall engage their opponent by moving into the line of sight of the opponent they wish to engage and stating loudly “my lord/lady I am engaging you” or words to that effect. 
                 In war combat, a combatant shall engage their opponent by moving into range in clear sight of the opponent they wish to engage and adopting an attacking posture. If a combatant has reason to believe that their opponent may not have seen them approach, they should verbally engage them as per the procedure above. 
                 It is forbidden to strike at an opponent with whom you are not engaged. 
                 A combatant who turns their back on an opponent with whom they are engaged while remaining within weapons range is subject to being struck by that opponent until they leave weapons range.

     The Use of Weapons and Shields
         Weapons shall be used in accordance with their design. For example, spears may only be used for thrusting, axes for striking along the edge of the blade, maces for striking with the head, etc.
         Only weapons approved for thrusting may be used for that purpose. Before any bout where a thrusting weapon is used, the opponent and marshals shall be informed that such a weapon is on the field, and the thrusting tip shall be shown to the opponent.
         The striking surface of a weapon in motion may not be grasped or blocked by the hands or limbs as a means of impeding a blow.
             If a combatant intentionally places an illegal target area (e.g., an empty hand and or lower leg, including the knee and foot) in the path of a blow, the combatant forfeits that attached limb as if it had been struck in a legal target area.
             Inadvertently bringing the hands in contact with the striking surface of a weapon in motion, as when attempting to block a blow with another weapon shall not be considered to be in violation of this convention.
         Shields must be controlled by the hand. Use of passive shields (not controlled by the hand) will be treated as decorative armor and subject to effective blow acknowledgment.

     Acknowledgment of Blows
Calibration
             Division 1 : Intentional Touch. This is a clean, unimpeded blow that is readily felt through a single layer of medium weight cloth, but is not hard enough to leave a bruise on bare skin. Face thrusts are not allowed.
             Division 2: Positive Contact. This is a clean, unimpeded blow that is

readily felt through 6 mm of open cell padding, but is not hard enough to leave a bruise in an area covered by medium weight cloth. Face thrusts have touch calibration.

             Division 3: Light Force. This is a clean, unimpeded blow that may be readily felt through 12 mm of open cell padding, but is not hard

enough to leave a bruise through 6 mm of open cell foam padding. Face thrusts have touch calibration.

             It is recommended that marshals use open cell foam of the appropriate thickness to demonstrate levels of calibration.
             Excessively hard blows are not permitted in any division. Any combatant who persists in hitting too hard after appropriate warning shall be removed from the field and may be subject to additional sanctions such as having their authorization suspended.
             Youth combatants are encouraged to honorably judge the effectiveness of blows they receive. The opposing combatant may not judge the effectiveness of his or her own blow. Information unavailable to the combatant being struck may be supplied by the opposing combatant or the marshal, including blade orientation upon impact, apparent force transmitted, or apparent location and angle of the blow’s impact based upon the observer’s angle of observation. When necessary, the marshal on the field shall intervene and call blows.
             Special tournaments or combat rules may redefine what areas of the body are armored, and to what extent, so long as all the participants are made aware of the special conditions prior to the start of combat.
         An effective blow will be defined as one that was properly oriented, and struck with sufficient force.
             The minimum effective thrusting blow to the face shall be a touch. A correctly calibrated face thrust touches the face grill of the helm but does not move the head.
             Areas deemed illegal to strike: the hands from 2.5 cm above the wrist and below, the legs from 2.5 cm above the knees and below; shall be considered safe from all attack.
             An effective blow to the head, neck, or torso shall be judged fatal or

completely disabling, rendering the fighter incapable of further combat.

             An effective blow to the arm above the wrist will disable the arm. The arm shall then be considered useless to the fighter and may not be used for either offense or defense. A second blow to a disabled arm is considered to have struck the torso.
             An effective blow to the leg above the knee will disable the leg. The

fighter must then fight kneeling, sitting, or standing on the foot of the uninjured leg.

             The minimum effective blow from any THROWN weapon is touch.

Javelins, used as one-handed thrusting weapons, require the same force as any other thrusting weapon appropriate for that division.

         When judging the outcome of a delivered blow, all fighters are expected to take into account the nature of the weapon being used by their opponent and the location of the point of impact of that weapon. A blow that strikes with sufficient force and proper orientation shall be considered effective, regardless of what it hits prior to striking the combatant.
          A blow that includes the dropping of the striking weapon, at the moment of impact, shall not be counted.

      ==Armor Requirements== 
         These are minimum required armor standards. 
         While it is the goal of the SCA to encourage a medieval appearance for all participants, given the specific nature of Youth Combat visible modern sports equipment may be worn as armor.
         ALL DIVISIONS:
             Head
                 Helmets must completely cover the head. Hockey helmets, lacrosse

helmets, and other sports helmets with facemasks are acceptable. They may need to have additions or alterations to fully enclose the head. Period looking helms are permitted. Bearing in mind the size and development of the youth, the marshal-in-charge may disallow the use of a helm deemed too heavy for the youth to wear safely.

                 The helmet must be constructed of a continuous rigid material.

Helmets with "floating" segments, attached only with straps, are not permitted.

                 All helmets must have grills, rigid mesh, or face plates that prevent a weapon from making contact with the face. No helmet shall have a gap exceeding 5 cm in the area protecting the face.
                 Helmets must have a chinstrap or equivalent means to prevent the helmet from being dislodged or contacting the wearers face during combat. 
                 Helmets in combination with neck protection (such as a gorget or aventail) must be constructed so that a weapon may not touch any exposed area of the head or neck.
                 Helmets must fit properly and be padded inside so that the rigid portions of it do not contact the head. Padding must provide progressively resistant give.
                 The mass of the helmet will not be presumed to provide any additional protection.
                 Helmets may have hanging aventails, camails, or bevors to aid in protecting the neck.
             Neck 
                 An aventail, camail, gorget, or coif may be used with a as long as in conjunction all required areas are protected.
             Groin

Minimum protection is a sports cup or padded skirt until reaching puberty after which a rigid athletic cup or equivalent armor appropriate to the youths physical characteristcs is required.

             Hand and Wrist Protection
                 Gauntlets of heavy leather or rigid material lined with closed cell foam or heavy padding are acceptable. Lighter gloves with a basket hilt and additional wrist protection, such as a half gauntlet, are acceptable. Street Hockey gloves alone are NOT acceptable.
             Feet: 
                 Participants must wear properly fitting, closed-toe shoes that provide safe reliable footing. Open toes, sandals, toe shoes, flip-flops, crocs, etc. are NOT acceptable.

             Shields 
Shields may be made of wood, plastic, foam, aluminum, or an equivalent material. 
                 Shield edges must be covered by plastic tubing, leather, or foam at least 13 mm wide to minimize damage to youth weapons or other fighters.
                 No wires, bolts, screws, or other objects may project more than 6 mm without padding or tape covering them. Rounded shield bosses are not considered to be projections.
                 Shields should be of a shape similar to that used in period.
                 Shields should be of an appropriate weight for the size and strength of the combatant.

         DIVISION 1
             Neck
                 The throat and larynx shall be protected by a minimum of light leather or the equivalent.
             Body
                 All combatants must have the torso, shoulders, and armpits covered with a minimum of cloth. Tunics, shirts, or bodices, and pants, shorts, or skirts are acceptable.
             Elbow and Knee Joints
                 At a minimum, a layer of cloth must cover the elbows and knees. Elbow and knee joint protection is not required. A long sleeve shirt and long pants, or a short sleeve shirt and shorts with elbow and kneepads meet this requirement.
             Hand and Wrist Protection
                 A minimum of light gloves is required.

         DIVISION 2
             Neck
                 An aventail, camail, gorget , or coif may be used with a as long as in conjunction all required areas are protected.
                 A minimum of medium leather with padding is required.
                 The larynx, cervical vertebrae, and first thoracic vertebra must be covered.
             Body
                 All combatants must have the torso, shoulders, and armpits covered with a minimum of cloth. Tunics, shirts, or bodices, and pants, shorts, or skirts are acceptable.
                 Kidneys must be protected by a minimum of a medium leather kidney belt with padding or the equivalent. 
                 It is recommended but not required that youths developing breasts have chest protection.

             Elbow and Knee Joints
                 Elbows and knees must be protected by a minimum of soft pads.
             Hand and Wrist Protection
                  A minimum of gloves with at least 6 mm of foam or padding protecting the fingers, back of the hand, and wrist are required. Street Hockey gloves are acceptable, as is a light glove, with extra wrist protection, in a basket hilt.

         DIVISION 3
             Neck
                An aventail, camail, gorget , or coif may be used with a as long as in conjunction all required areas are protected.
                 A minimum of rigid material or heavy leather, with padding, is required. 
                 The larynx, cervical vertebrae, and first thoracic vertebra must be covered.
             Body
                 All combatants must have the torso, shoulders, and armpits covered with a minimum of cloth. Tunics, shirts, or bodices, and pants, shorts, or skirts are acceptable
                 Kidneys must be protected by a minimum of a medium leather kidney belt with padding or the equivalent. 
                 The xyphoid process must be protected by a minimum of medium leather and padding or the equivalent. 
                 Youths developing breasts are required to have chest protection of medium leather, heavy quilted material, or the equivalent.
             Elbow and Knee Joints
                 Elbows and knees must be protected by rigid material over padding. Hockey, motocross and other similar sports elbow and kneepads are acceptable.
             Hand and Wrist Protection
                 A minimum of a sports glove with at least 13 mm

of foam protecting the fingers, back of the hand, and wrist, and extra thumb protection, such as those for ice hockey or lacrosse goalies, or equivalent.

      Weapons Standards
         General – ALL DIVISIONS
              All weapons must be inspected regularly for deteriorated or compromised foam as well as damaged or broken components
             No metal may be used in any weapons. This includes, but is not limited to: basket hilts, pommel weights, screws or other fasteners, and hose clamps.
             Flails are expressly prohibited.
             No materials that might shatter or splinter on impact may be used for the core or cross hilts of any weapon. PVC is expressly prohibited.
             Approved materials for weapon cores are:
                 Rattan, either shaved or skin-on, with a diameter between 19 mm and 25 mm for most weapons. Two-handed weapons longer than 165 cm, used in Division 3 only, may use rattan up to, but not exceeding 32 mm in diameter.
                   ***? Both ends of the rattan shall be rounded.
                 Common forms of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipe used for irrigation and plumbing. Examples are Sil-o-Flex® and PEX.
                   ***? Any nominal size of HDPE may be used provided the actual outside diameter of the pipe is no less than 19 mm, the youth can securely grip the pipe, and the weapon is within weight limits. 
                   ? HDPE pipe shall have both ends capped, plugged, or otherwise covered to prevent the pipe from cutting through the foam.
                 Other materials may be approved by: the Kingdom Deputy Earl Marshal, in accordance with the procedures in paragraph 

       Experimentation.
            The striking surface of any weapon shall not be less than 38 mm wide.
            Thrusting tips and cutting edges shall be marked in a contrasting color.
            Wrist straps, lanyards, and triggers are recommended but not required.
            Pommels, cross-guards, and the butt ends of weapons without butt spikes must be covered with at least 9 mm closed cell foam and covered with a loose single layer of duct tape or cloth.
            Weapons may not exceed 75 grams in weight per 10 cm of length.
            If a weapon has a head, 
                 it must be constructed solely of lightweight foam.
                 The head shall be firmly and securely attached to the haft. 
                 Striking surfaces shall have compression characteristics similar to those without a defined head.
            Single-Handed Weapons:
                 Striking surfaces must be covered with at least 9 mm of closed cell foam extending 25 mm or more past the end of the core material. The foam must be covered with a single loose layer of duct tape or a cloth sleeve.
                 Thrusting tips shall be constructed of closed cell foam covered with duct tape or cloth. They must extend 5 cm past the end of the core and be at least 6.5 cm in diameter. 
                   ? Thrusting tips should be constructed so that they do not fold over.
                 Basket hilts are permitted on single-handed weapons.
             Two-Handed Weapons: Weapons, - including those which may be used with one or two hands, shall have the following requirements: 
                 Two-handed weapons shall be constructed in the same way as single-handed weapons except as outlined below.
                 Given the excessive flexibility of HDPE in warm temperatures it is recommended that these cores be limited to single-handed weapons except in Division 1.
                 No weapon may have a cutting and/or smashing surface at both ends.
                 Weapons exceeding 180 cm shall not be used for cutting or smashing and shall be used for thrusting only (spears).
                 Thrown Weapons
                   ? These weapons may be used for striking and may also be thrown in melee scenarios where thrown weapons are allowed. Examples are thrust-and-throw javelins and axes.
                   ? Throwing axes may be used in any division and are constructed from only closed cell foam and tape.
                   ? Axes shall not be excessively large or heavy.
                   ? Javelins are constructed from a single diameter of HDPE pipe and  
                       ? may be used in melee combat in Divisions 2 and 3. 
                       ? They may be thrown or be used as a single-handed thrusting weapon
                       ?  The thrusting tip must conform to standard weapon thrusting tips.
                       ? The butt end may not be used offensively. It must be padded with

foam in such a manner that it will not penetrate a 5 cm opening.

                       ? Fins or stabilizers of foam or duct tape may be attached near the back end. 
                       ? must be between 125 and 165 cm long. 

Marshals' Section

     Organization
        Lochac Youth Combat is administered under the Lochac Deputy Earl Marshal for Youth Combat.
        Lochac Deputy Earl Marshal for Youth Combat must ensure that appropriately trained youth marshals are in charge of any youth armoured combat activity.
        Youth Armoured Combat Marshals will be warranted for Youth Armored Combat.
        There are three levels of Youth Armoured Combat Marshals: 
             Group Knight Marshal Deputy for Youth Combat 
                 This is an administrative role responsible for:
                   ?  promoting Youth Armoured Combat within their group
                   ? organising events and equipment relevant to their groups needs

NB: This role is filled by a groups Knight Marshal if a Deputy for Youth Combat position is not filled and/or required

             Youth Armoured Combat Marshal: 
                   ? These are marshals who have been warranted by the kingdom to marshal tournaments and melees for Youth Armoured Combat and are able to authorise combatants. 
             Youth Armoured Combat Sparring Partner: 
                   ? These are adults who have been warranted by the kingdom to spar with youth combatants. 
                   ? They must be able to demonstrate a sound working knowledge of weapons, armour, and calibration levels appropriate to all divisions. 

N.B. Youth Combat Sparring Partners cannot marshal tournaments nor authorise combatants.

     Authorization of Marshals
         A Youth Armoured Combat Marshal may be warranted after demonstrating 
             the ability to:
                   ? judge a youth combatants authorization.
                   ? know the Youth Armoured Combat Rules. 
                   ? supervise youth combatants both in the lists and in melee combat.
                   ? promote safe practices and enforce the rules of the list. 
                   ? inspect weapons and armour. 
         A Youth Armoured Combat Sparring Partner may be warranted after demonstrating the ability to:
                   ? understand the differences between the divisions with regard to calibration and allowed shots 
                   ? spar safely chivalrously with youth from at least two divisions 
                   ? promote safe practices and enforce the rules of the list. 
                   ? inspect weapons and armour. 
         The process for authorising Youth Armoured Combat Marshals is the same as that for authorising Adult combat marshals, as found in the Lochac Marshals Handbook ###(https://marshal.lochac.sca.org/handbook/marshalsHandbook.html ), with relevant reference to the Youth Armoured Combat rules. 
         Youth Armoured Combat Marshals do not need to be authorized in any SCA martial activity.
         All warranted Youth Armoured Combat Marshals are considered to be officers and must be members of the SCA
         All youth combat marshals must be familiar with the Child Protection Policies and Procedures of SCA Ltd in Australia or SCANZ in New Zealand, depending on the country that they are marshalling in.

N.B. These requirements are irrespective of the age and apply to minors as Marshals-in-Training also. All marshals must be authorised to marshal youth combat and be able to show proof as required. All marshals must be current members of the SCA. All marshals must be over the age of 18 years at the time of authorisation. Minors aged 16–17 years may be Marshals-in-Training. All marshals must show proof they have the working with children background check required in their jurisdiction in order to complete their authorisation, refer to the SCA Ltd policies which can be found at ###http://www.sca.org.au/board/documents/policy; and SCANZ policies which can be found at ###http:/www.sca.org.nz/documents

     Two-Deep Policy: 
         All SCA Youth Armoured Combat activities including practices, events, demos, and wars must be under the continuous supervision of at least one background checked adult marshal, warranted in the relevant discipline, and at least one additional unrelated adult (two-deep policy).
     Marshal-in-Charge (MiC) responsibilities:
         Only a warranted Youth Marshal may be the marshal-in-charge (MiC) of an event.
         The MiC at any official event, including practices, is responsible for:
             ensuring that all waiver and background check policies are complied with.
             preparing (or having prepared) all required reports and forms. 
             ensuring that there are enough marshals and constables to control the activity.
             checking that the field can be safely fought upon and an appropriate buffer zone is provided between the list or battlefield and spectators as necessary.
             Ensuring that prior to any combat (practice or tournament) all equipment be inspected and meets all safety and armor requirements pertaining to the appropriate division.

     Marshal responsibilities
             Assist the MiCs as required
             Monitor activities and behavior on the field and immediately stop all potentially hazardous or unchivalrous activities.
             Marshals on the field are expected to take an active role in safety, sportsmanship and assistance in calibration. Youth Armoured Combat Marshals have a greater responsibility to intervene than their counterparts in adult martial activities. The younger the combatants, the more active the marshaling becomes.
             Marshals shall remove from the field any combatant who refuses to obey the commands of the marshals or other officials.
             Supervise Youth Armoured Combat training activities

     Adult Training of Youth at Official SCA Activities
          Legal guardians can always spar with their own children. 
          Adults may not participate as combatants in youth combat tournaments or melees.
          Only authorised Youth Armoured Combatants, Youth Armoured Sparring Partners, and Youth Armoured Combat Marshals may spar with youth combatants
         Parents may actively train their own children.
         All training of youth combatants at official SCA activities, whether or not it includes sparring, must be done under the supervision of a warranted Youth Armoured Combat Marshal
         Sparing is performed as training with the intent of teaching defensive and/or offensive skills to youth combatants. Sparring may also be part of a demonstration, educational, or morale building exercise.
         Sparring with youth is normally conducted as one-on-one combat (one authorized adult sparring partner vs. one youth). 
         Group training activities and exhibitions, involving multiple youth and one or more adults, may be allowed at the discretion of the Youth Marshal in charge.

Precautions will be taken to minimize risk to all participants.

         For the purposes of Youth Armored Combat, 
             sparring has a definite meaning.
                   ? If the adult is holding a weapon and is attempting to throw shots at the youth, this IS sparring.
                   ? If both the adult and the youth are striking each other with weapons,

regardless of force or speed, this IS sparring.

                   ? If the youth is striking an adult who is holding a shield or buckler and the adult is merely blocking shots, this IS NOT sparring.
                   ? If the youth is striking the adult but the adult is not striking the youth, this IS NOT sparring, but considered blow calibration or practice targeting.
                   ? Other than parents, any authorized adult fighter may provide training, which does not include sparring, as long as a Youth Marshal is present.
                   ? Adults in a training situation with youth combatants shall use weapons appropriate to the division of the youth being trained whether or not sparring occurs.
             Adult protective gear:

NB: Adults in a training situation with Youth Armored combatants are not required to meet the armor standards of Youth Armored Combat. It is recommended that trainers wear armor appropriate to the training.

     Injury Procedures
         In the event of any suspected injury on the field, the marshal shall halt all fighting in the area and determine the proper course of action. The parent, or responsible adult, shall be informed immediately and escorted to the list if not already there.
          When an injury occurs on the field, it should always be remembered that the primary concern is getting to and assisting the injured party. Secondary to this objective, but no less important, is the safety of persons entering the field to help and the well-being of anyone already on the field. (For example, fighters standing around in armor in the sun could be subject to heat problems.)
          In the event of an emergency, the marshals shall cooperate with any authorized persons responding to the emergency and keep the area clear of would-be spectators.
          All injuries that require hospitalization or similar care, include a period of unconsciousness, or may require future medical care shall be reported  to the MiC of the event and the Lochac Deputy for Youth Armoured Combat

Include all available details in the report.

     Youth Armoured Combat Authorizations
         Youth Marshals warranted and rostered to authorize youth combatants must witness the authorization and execute the proper

procedures to ensure that the authorization is registered

         Authorizations shall be conducted in a manner appropriate for the division.
         At least one other Adult must witness the authorisation. 
         All youth combatants must reauthorize when permanently changing divisions
             Youth are expected to practice at the next division before authorizing.
         Youth combatants must demonstrate their knowledge of the rules of Youth Armoured Combat.
         Youth combatants must demonstrate that they can safely spar with other youths. 
         They must be able to effectively block shots.
         If a previously authorized combatant fails to pass an authorization for the next division, s/he may continue to participate in her/his previous division.
         They must be able to consistently throw shots at the appropriate level of calibration to legal target areas. 

     Marshal Responsibilities, Chain of Command, and Reporting
         Reporting 
             Kingdom Deputies for Youth Armored Combat shall
                   ? report quarterly to the Society Deputy for Youth Combat and the Kingdom Earl Marshal regarding the status of their programs in their Kingdom.
                 Including:
                   ? Any incident involving serious injury to a youth fighter. A serious injury is something which involves emergency medical treatment or hospitalization.
                   ? Any serious injury or incident that is reported to the Society Deputy for Youth Combat must also be reported to the SCA Ltd board in Australia or the SCANZ Committee in New Zealand, depending on which country the incident occurred.
                   ? Incidents of inappropriate behaviour by a youth combatant or participating adult which is serious enough to warrant revoked authorisation, warrant, a court of chivalry, possible banishment, or legal action

NB: the SCA governing body of the country in which the incident occurred (i.e. either the SCA Ltd (Australia) BoD or SCANZ (New Zealand) committee). must also be notified. A copy of this report will be forwarded to the Society Special Deputy for Family and Youth Programs.

     Experimentation

         Before any alternate or unapproved materials or weapons may be used at Society activities, a test proposal must be submitted to and approved by the Society Deputy for Youth Combat and will follow the "Experimental Weapons and Materials Procedures" of the Society Marshal's Handbook.
         In addition to the requirements and procedures for experimentation in the Marshal's Handbook, all parents, or responsible adults, must consent to the use of the weapon or material before combat begins. If any of the parents, responsible adult, combatants, or marshals object, the material or weapon may not be used in that fight or battle.
    XXIV. Disciplinary Actions
         Grievance Procedures 
             This procedure is included from section X.3 of Lochac Kingdom Law (Jan 2019). It is reproduced here for convenience. In the event of differences between current Lochac Kingdom Law and this text, Lochac Kingdom Law shall have precedence.
              Anyone having a dispute with, or grievance against, another in Lochac, that is not a mundane legal matter or dealt with in SCA policy, shall first attempt to settle the matter as follows: 
             First Stage - The person shall hold a direct and private discussion with the other and attempt to come to a resolution. An impartial mediator may be present if either party desires it. Whilst an in-person discussion is often the quickest way to resolve a dispute, on occasions this can be intimidating: a discussion by telephone or in writing also fulfils the requirement for direct communication. 
             Second Stage - If the matter cannot be resolved, the person shall bring the matter to the attention of the most appropriate local officer, or the Local Seneschal if there is no appropriate local officer. If the dispute is with someone outside the local area, the dispute will be brought to the Kingdom officer. If the grievance is against a landed Baronage, the dispute will be brought directly to the Crown. The relevant officer should then attempt to arbitrate a resolution. 
              Third Stage - If the dispute cannot be settled at a local level, it should be brought to the attention of the most appropriate Kingdom Officer. The relevant officer should then attempt to arbitrate a resolution. 
             Serious Disputes - If the dispute is of such magnitude that all steps above have failed and a formal complaint is necessary, details of such complaints shall be sent to the person being complained against, the local Seneschal, the Seneschal, and the Crown via the Seneschal. Complaints against any officer shall be directed to the officer’s superior in addition to the above. 

     Revocation of Authorisations 
          Authorisations may be revoked by a marshal for just and stated cause. People subject to revocation of their authorisation are required to immediately surrender all of their authorisation cards. Refusal or delay in surrendering authorisation cards is a serious infraction of these rules and may result in severe sanctions. 
          People subject to revocation of authorisations may appeal the sanction, but must surrender their card and abide by the sanction until the appeals process is complete. 
          The chain of appeals is as follows: 
             the Kingdom Earl Marshal; then 
              the Crown; then 
              the Society Marshal. 
         Any marshal who revokes an authorisation must report this action, in writing, to their superior officer and the Kingdom Earl Marshal as soon as possible. 
          Any marshal revoking an authorisation without due cause may themselves be subject to sanctions including, but not limited to, loss of authorisations. 
          The Kingdom Earl Marshal must notify the Society Marshal of any revocation of authorisations. 
          In addition to any steps taken by the marshalate, infractions involving breaches of mundane law should be referred immediately to the appropriate authorities.

Procedures for Changes to These Rules

These rules shall have precedence as set out in section I.A of the Corpora of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. At all times mundane law has precedence over any and all rules of the SCA. 
As per section II of the Laws of the Kingdom of Lochac which can be found at the following URL: seneschal.lochac.sca.org/files/2019/01/LochacLaws-January-2019.pdf, temporary restrictions on activities normally allowed by these rules may be made by proclamation of the Crown, and will expire after 30 days unless renewed by proclamation, or permanently incorporated into the rules. 
Permanent changes to Lochac standards and conventions may only be made using the following procedure, and shall only come into effect after all of the following steps are complete: (a) The change must be approved by: • the Crown; and • the Kingdom Seneschal; and • the Board of SCA Ltd, and • the Committee of SCA NZ Inc (b) the change must be proclaimed by the Crown at an official event; and (c) notification of the changes to the standards or conventions will be distributed to all group marshals; and (d) the Combat Handbook (these rules) will be updated to include the approved changes; and (e) notification of the changes will be published in Pegasus. 
The only exception to the procedure outlined above shall be in the case of mundane law changes contradicting these rules. Mundane law always has precedence over internal SCA rules and in the event of a change to mundane law contradicting 61 it shall become effective immediately, and these rules will be updated as soon as possible. 
The procedure for requesting changes to these rules is as follows: (a) Discuss proposed changes with your Branch Marshal. (b) Discuss proposed changes with Lochac Earl Marshal. (c) On the Earl Marshal’s approval, necessary experimentation, testing and documentation, including experimental and test results and risk-assessment of the impact of the change, will be undertaken and reported to the Earl Marshal. (d) If the Earl Marshal agrees to proposed changes, they will approve the change or seek approval for the changes as necessary. 
Typographical corrections and minor changes clarifying wording of a rule, that do not change the substance or intent of a rule, may be made by the Kingdom Earl Marshal or their Deputy for Combat Laws only, without going through the processes set out above. 

Glossary

Abrasion-resistant material - Material that will withstand normal combat stresses (such as being snagged by an unbroken blade) without tearing. Aventail - A piece of metal, heavy leather, or other rigid material attached to the back of a helmet. It protects the back of the

neck.

Bevor - A piece of metal, heavy leather, or other rigid material attached to the front of a helmet. It protects the throat. Camail - A drape of chainmail, leather, or padded cloth that hangs from the helmet. It protects the neck. Closed-cell foam - A solid foam made from polyethylene, EPV, or vinyl nitrate without interconnected pores resulting in a higher compressive strength than open-cell foams. Common uses are pipe insulation, camping and fitness mats, and sports padding. Coif - A cap of chainmail or padded cloth worn under a helmet that extends to the base of the neck. It may be long enough to also cover the shoulders. Death from Behind - A specialized attack sometimes allowed during melee combat where the attacker "kills" an opponent from behind without attempting to strike. Death from Behind is a minimal contact, or no contact, form of attack. Gauntlet - An armored glove covering the back of the hand, fingers, and thumb and the points and back of the wrist. Gorget - A protective collar for the neck. It may also protect the larynx and cervical vertebrae. Heavy Leather - At least 10 ounce leather, about 3/16 inch thick.

HDPE - High Density Polyethylene (see Irrigation pipe and PEX) Irrigation Pipe - Shatter-resistant plastic pipe made of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) sized to be a substitute for iron pipe in exterior plumbing applications. Often used for in-ground sprinkler systems. Found in many hardware stores. It is usually black in color. May be orange when used for electrical conduits. See also: Sil-o-flex. Light Gloves - Gloves made of cloth, canvas, or thin leather. Light Leather - This is 4 to 6 ounce leather about 3/32 inch thick.

List Field, Tourney Field, or Erik - The defined area for fighting, or the fighting field, usually with a roped-off boundary. Mass weapons - maces, axes, war hammers, or other weapons designed primarily to crush or punch holes (on account of the weight of the real weapons), rather than primarily to cut (on account of sharp edges on the real weapon). Medium Leather - This is 7 to 9 ounce leather about 1/8 inch thick. Melee - Combat fought between teams of two or more persons per side. Open-cell foam - Foam made with interconnected pores. Common uses are for seat cushions, mattress pads, and packaging. PEX - Shatterproof plastic pipe made of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) sized to be a substitute for copper pipe and CPVC pipe in interior plumbing applications. Found in many hardware stores. Available in black, white, red, or blue colored. Colored orange when intended for radiant floor use. Polearms - hafted weapons, generally long, designed to be wielded with two hands (e.g., glaives, halberds, etc.). Progressively resistant give - As pressure is applied it will compress gradually without bottoming-out. Puncture-resistant material - Any fabric or combination of fabrics that will predictably withstand puncture. PVC - Plastic pipe usually white or gray in color. May shatter upon impact. It is NOT legal for Youth Combat. Rigid Material - Metal, shatter-resistant plastic, heavy leather, or leather that has been hardened. Sil-o-Flex® - Brand name for plastic pipe made of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) sized to be a substitute for iron pipe in exterior plumbing applications such as in-ground sprinklers. See: Irrigation pipe. Xyphoid Process - This is the area at the base of the sternum.

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