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Like many groups, WSTR has a complicated history.
Drew Page and Ken Johnson, founders of WSTR, began training in unarmored longsword combat in 1997. After several years of training, they chose to teach a couple of introductory classes for Mansfield Parks & Recreation. Their students asked them repeatedly to find a way to continue training beyond the twelve-week course. Eventually, Drew and Ken found a way to start teaching classes on their own. WSTR (mispronounced “wah-ster”) officially began in November of 2004. In 2007, WSTR longsword and WSTR Fencing were finally joined at their new home in Willimantic under the new name Sword in the Scroll Fencing Academy (SITS).
In 2011 it was decided WSTR and SITS would part ways. Drew continued on with the Sport Fencing, leaving the Historical Fencing to several other instructors. WSTR became an affiliate member of the HEMA Alliance, a 501c(3) non-profit ogranization that provides a wide range of services to clubs practicing the historical European martial arts throughout the United States. Longsword continues to be a focus, but the curriculum has expanded to include other sources and weapon systems.
Our Classes
Willimantic Location:
Our basic/beginner longsword session (Wed, from 6:30-7:30) concentrates on the basic elements of German unarmored longsword. The focus is on guards and stances, cutting, fundamental techniques, and five specialized cuts. Students learn the techniques and practice them in drills. The session rotates through techniques weekly so someone attending 6 straight weeks would get an introduction to all the basic techniques (note this is introduction only, not mastery of these skills). Those who skip a few will usually get some one-to-one attention from senior students to catch up and get everything needed. Students will test into advanced classes in 7-10 weeks depending on attendance and skill.
Advanced class takes place immediately after basic (7:30-9:00). This group consists of members who have passed a safety and basic technique test in order to ensure the safety of other members. Advanced study allows members to train toward mastery of the basic techniques, explore more complex techniques, and study more intensive concepts of combat such as initiative, tactics, distance and timing. Other weapon systems in addition to longsword are also studied: sword & buckler, dagger, wrestling, various polearms, messer, rapier, military saber/backsword and fixed bayonet.
East Haddam Location:
Classes meet most Saturdays from 11-12:30 (see calendar for schedule) and focus on use of the later period Renaissance Italian rapier, German smallsword, and military saber. Teen and adult fencing classes are offered periodically through East Haddam Parks and Rec and meet from 10-11:00.
Equipment
Training longswords are provided for beginners. As members advance in their training, they usually obtain their own training equipment, including steel training sword, sparring gloves, mask and jacket. Practices are active, so it's important to wear comfortable workout clothes and sneakers.
Cost
The first class is free. We want you to try our class as it is quite unique. If you enjoy the class, WSTR Longsword has a basic cost of $10 per class until students test into the advanced group. Monthly dues for the advanced class is only $20 and allows students to attend both the beginner and advanced practices in Willimantic. There is a $5 drop in fee for practices in East Haddam.
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