“En-garde”! Orkney Fencing Club lunge into plea for more volunteers

Like many other clubs throughout the county, the Orkney Fencing Club is run entirely by a dwindling handful of volunteers.

To ensure its ongoing success, they are appealing for others to get involved.

Moya Nelson is the backbone of the club and currently has responsibility as chair, armourer and lead coach.

She has been involved with the club for more than 30 years, initially as a way to keep fit but this has evolved as she explains: “Not only have I a better level of fitness as a result but have found friendship and a feeling of belonging to both the fencing and wider Orkney communities.

“Fencing is a sport that can appeal to all ages and abilities and our small club in Orkney can provide a sport for people who perhaps don’t have a love of team sports.

“You can fence at any level from recreational to National and International competitions. Although you compete as an individual there are team events too. You fence to your own abilities and ambition. Most recently, veteran Maggie Tait won a gold medal in the epee team event at the Commonwealth Fencing Competition – a fantastic achievement – and we also succeeded in winning back the Viking Cup from Shetland this year.

“At a club session there are opportunities to improve your skills or just socialise and make new friends.  We also try to have social events outwith fencing.”

Those aged 10 years and up can join and at any one time they have around 20 members.

Although it’s a contact sport involving scoring points by landing a “hit” on your opponent, there are rules and constraints which help develop respect and self- discipline.

Like so many other clubs, they are in desperate need of more helpers for a variety of roles: secretary/ administrator; adult helpers for assisting at competitions on and off island; armourer (looking after the equipment); first aider (not required every week but must attend competitions); coach (doesn’t need fencing experience but it is useful - this is a bigger, long term commitment requiring travel off island).

Other roles that may become available: treasurer, child well-being and protection officer and media guru.

Moya stresses that many of these don’t require any sporting background or interest, just a desire to help.

“We are generally looking for folk aged 18 and over, but 16-18-year-olds can take on administrative roles or start training to be a coach.

“All roles that involve contact with under 18-year-olds must have PVG clearance and some roles require first aid certificate and child well-being and protection training but we assist with that so it’s really not a problem.

“If folk would like to have a go and not commit fully, we can accommodate trial periods also.”

Sessions are every Wednesday evening at Picky, with additional training for those taking part in senior competitions. All are welcome, from beginners up and taster sessions are available to other clubs and individuals.

There’s a free taster session on 28 September at Picky from 7.30pm-9pm. 

If you would like to get in touch with the club please contact info@orkneyfencingclub.co.uk or DM Orkneyfencing on Facebook.