The Sacramento Freifechter, as part of the Meyer Freifechter Guild, recognizes our membership's advancement in the art and achievements through a system of Ranks, Certifications and Commendations. Ranks provide goals for individual member's training while Certifications recognize work performed in other areas related to the art such as Teaching and Coaching. Commendations are awarded for performance of the art in public formats (tournaments).

Ranks

Schüler

The first rank a student can earn, a Schüler has demonstrated a basic knowledge of the fundamental aspects of Joachim Meyer's system. This rank signifies that a student has finished the beginner's curriculum and is ready to participate in the primary class. Schülers may wear a white ribbon on their right knee. Requirements

Fechter

The second rank a student can earn, a Fechter has demonstrated knowledge and competency in all areas of Joachim Meyer's system. This rank signifies a significant time investment from the student, including solo practice and study of Joachim Meyer's text. Fechters may wear a red ribbon on their right knee. Requirements

Kunstfechter

The third rank a student can earn, a Kunstfechter has demonstrated significant knowledge and proficiency in all areas of Joachim Meyer's system. This rank signifies a significant time investment from the student, including solo practice, practice with other groups, multiple weapons competency, study of Joachim Meyer's text and the production of works to further others study of the art. Kunstfechters may wear a gold ribbon on their right knee. Requirements not yet available.

Freifechter

The fourth rank a student can earn, a Freifechter has demonstrated a deep understanding and expertise in all areas of Joachim Meyer's system. This rank signifies a significant time investment from the student, including solo practice, instruction with other groups, multiple weapons proficiency, study of Joachim Meyer's text and the publication of a thesis on the art. Requirements not yet available.

Certifications

Fechtlehrer

Instructor Certification Level 1, the recipient has demonstrated knowledge of proper pedagogical tools for the teaching of Joachim Meyer's system as well as competency in coaching. Fechter rank is required.

Fechtprobst

Instructor Certification Level 2, the recipient has demonstrated knowledge of proper pedagogical tools for the teaching of Joachim Meyer's system as well as proficiency in coaching. Kunstfechter rank is required.

Fechtmeister

Instructor Certification Level 3, the recipient has demonstrated knowledge of proper pedagogical tools for the teaching of Joachim Meyer's system as well as expertise in coaching. Freifechter rank is required.

Commendations

Schülefechter

Competed in a major competition such as Longpoint, IGX, PurpleHeart Open, PNW or SoCal Swordfight. Fencing was performed cleanly with an eye towards the use of historical techniques. Fechter rank is required.

Freischülefechter

Successfully made it into the final rounds of competition at a major event while performing clean historical techniques. Fechter rank required.

Verfechter

Came in 4th place or higher at a major event while performing clean historical techniques.