APPRENTICE

This is a rank for students in the Historical Program. It normally takes 1-1.5 years of training to become an Apprentice if you train 2-4 hours per week.

a) Must pass the 2.5 hour Apprentice test with an 80% accuracy.

i) The oral portion of the test covers general questions about the history and theory of sword combat, AoA founding principles, school policies and etiquette.

ii) The technical portion of the test covers the longsword plays and drills from the 55-play Techniques Class. The plays are executed at full speed and require moderate precision. Control must be demonstrated.

b) Must own a synthetic training sword, full safety gear for sparring with synthetics, and a uniform.

c) Must pass the American Heart Association test for First Aid and Adult CPR, and must keep that certification current.

d) Upon completion of all requirements, the Novice is declared an Apprentice.

e) A new Apprentice will choose a personal weapon beyond the longsword, such as dagger, grappling, spear, pollaxe, halfsword, sickle, messer, sword and buckler, and staff. The student will purchase this weapon and plan to make a detailed study of it.

f) A new Apprentice will choose a Novice to mentor and must successfully help that student progress from the Novice to Apprentice rank.

g) Apprentices are expected to help teach Novices.

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