I always try to find the intellectual side of everything. Perhaps it's collge, perhaps its a natural-born inate curiousity, but if it has a brainy aspect to it, I try to find it.

Enter Belegarth.

 On the surface, it really just seems like a bunch of folks running around, yelling, screaming, and doing what our parents told us never to do: hit other people with sticks. But, unlikewhat it appears to be, there is so much more.

 I'm a nerd- always have been, always will be. Hence I bring my nerdery to Belegarth. I always keep a copy of the Book of War (and at this point, a much scribbled upon, faded, worn, dog-eared, bent up and beat up copy) on me, reading it in my spare time- in class, on the toilet, little pockets of tim I have between classes. I'm trying to acquaint myself better with it so that when someone blurts out a question- bam, I'm on it. I suppose it's pre-law school self training, but I don't mind reading the rules this closesly if it makes me a better fighter.

There are those who approach any sport with a "well, I'm ripped and fast and I can run so and so distance and lift so and so amounts, so I'll be superior." Me, I think that's bullshit. Sure, I'm going to be intimidated by that big hulking sunuvabitch over there that looks like he can pull a Beowulf on me (for those who don't know, Beowulf ripped Grendel's arm off and beat him with it). I bring a more intellectual look to it. I realize that the sword he's got is technically illegal and that when weapons check comes, he's screwed. I realize that the momentum of the sword is all at the tip, as well as the majority of the force, and that when it hits my shield, it's just weakening it further. I know that he probably ended up using the crappiest of materials and that soon enough that thing is going to fall apart.

Add to that being a political science major and a former debater. Now, I'm an argument waiting to happen.

I love debating historical periods, or political action. And Belegarth itself was born out of political action (say what you want, at the very base of it, the Dagorhir-Belegarth split was very political. It's just a fact.) The very fact that we wear all of this pimpin garb is evident that at it's core, you have to have a touch of the nerd about you. Who else actually knows what the difference between a tabard and surcoat is? Who could tell you (and this is all on a local level) what is the period differences between a cape and a cloak were and what preceeded what.

We can. Because we're the nerd's with balls. And swords. And bows and arrows, shit- we'll kick your ass and then BOF will give a rousing rendition of it afterward (BTW- I love the BOF singing. Nothing makes Floggin Molly better than having a group bellowing out the lyrics.)

Physicality will only get you so far before you have to stop and think. Hence why I love books on tactics, on warfre, on anything and everything that increases my knowledge of Belegarth. I love the Wiki and I love reading about any aspect of the sport I can. As soon as I found out about the concept of units in the sport, I immedieatly did my research (which, seeing as it's online, left it sorely lacking-graciously filled in by 'Pack veterans). The fighter who fight's intelligently ultimately wins. Becse while Big Hulking Sunuvabitch A may pulverize Mediocre Nerd B, Mediocre Nerd B is gonna figure out what happened and smoke Sunuvabitch A when he's not expecting. Either that or he's going to popshot the guy in the nuts (always always always a subtle pleasure- even more so with a bow and arrow. As a word of advice to any of us new fighters of the XY Chromosonal persuasion- invest in a cup. If you don't, please don't tell me you didn't because now I'm aiming for the boys because you're just a dumbass).

 The main point is that this sport is just as mental as it is physical, if not more. If you don't realize that head shots are illegal, you're going to die very quickly when a herald kicks you off the field, or the person you keep headshoting decides that you are now his/her bitch and is going to make you his/her bitch. I've seen it happen, and it's really not pleasent.

I was actually poking around Wolfpack's website (other than our boards, which is what is actually maintained the most) and I found the old promotional videos for it that I guess we aired on Illinois State's TV station (http://www.wolfpackonline.org/?view=movies&menu=media). It made a great point.

"You just might get your ass kicked by a history major".  

[...]

I'd love to see one of these for each unit at some point so that newish members who have never been to an event can get an idea of what various units are about.

 What it means to be a Hydra

One of the best things about Belegarth is the amount of pride one sees people take in their respective groups, particularlyunits.  I am happily no exception.  So proud of my unit am I that I get stupidly loyal and protective of it.  You’ll often hear me playing devil’s advocate in discussions about Hydra, always wanting desperately to preserve Hydra’s identity.  I love my unit, and that’s because of the caliber of people we welcome into our ranks.  Here’s what goes into being a member of Clan of the Hydra:

 

Humility – No one can deny the humble beginnings of Clan of the Hydra.  They walked onto the field impeccably dressed and quickly died where they stood.  The remarkable thing was that they laughed, stood up, and made it a point to charge the nearest, scariest unit they could.  And then they did it again.  And again.  And when it was all over, they got up and sought help from veterans.  While our skill level is increasing, our humility remains the same.  We train everyone within our ranks to “hit hard and take light” and seek out any opponents after a battle in case an apology or explanation is needed.

 

Passion – Part of our humility is our passion to evolve and better ourselves while helping to better the sport.  You can see it in how fiercely Hydra members fight no matter how outnumbered or just in how far we are willing to drive for a little bit more fighting.  Hydrae eagerly devour new armor and weapon projects, and when one doesn’t work, other members are brought in to help fix the problem.  Some might view the Clan’s passion as “stubbornness,” but we see it as drive.

 

Positive attitudes – Visit Clan of the Hydra’s camp after a day of fighting and witness this first hand.  One of the most important traditions of our relatively young unit is sharing favorite “battle stories” at the end of the day.  Many of these involve glorious deaths, not so glorious deaths, or merely boldly facing off with a veteran who quickly did us in.  Any issues that arise (and they do, as with any group) are handled quickly and the group focus is on growth and learning.  Even the worst moments on the battlefield can be used to learn and create better fighters. 

 

Willingness to learn and teach – Just as we seek out veterans for help and insight, we encourage all of our younger members and realm comrades to share that same desire to learn.  We take time to share what we know with those around us to help them grow as fighters and to help to the Belegarth community as a whole.  The information we share may be improved upon down the road, but in sharing it we create a sense of constant evolution which will help our fantastic sport.

 

Well roundedness – It is often easy to find a weapon style that works and stick with it.  Clan of the Hydra, particularly through its involvement with Iron Crown, encourages experimentation with alternate weapon forms, particularly pole arms and archery.  This encouragement creates a different class of fighter: one in which a person fights with what they are most comfortable with rather than what is most commonly found on a battlefield.

 

Fun – More than anything, Hydra believe that if it’s not fun, don’t do it.  A sport or past time should not ever feel like an obligation or a chore.  If you get worked up over it, be able to walk away.  Events are a vacation and a time to hang out with awesome people you don’t see every day or even every week and do something you enjoy doing.  If that’s not happening, something is wrong and we will do what we can as a unit to fix that. 

 

[...]

One morning, as Shannon Heibler was waking up from anxious dreams, she discovered that in bed she had been changed into a monstrous fighter in the making…

 

I came back from Oktoberfest a pretty different member of Belegarth.  I came back wanting more.  Wanting to be a more helpful part of it, nationally and regionally.  I came back wanting to be worth a damn on the field.  I came back wanting to improve my unit and realm even more than they have already improved.  (And they have – I’m so proud!)  So I came back with a plan.  More to the point, I had several plans about my role in Belegarth.  The first part was cozying up with a copy of the Book of War and getting, erm, familiar with it and all its bizarre nooks and crannies.  I’m able to answer most questions now without checking it, but I always keep it close by at practice, just in case.  I’m still a little weak on weapon construction rules.  I also started brain storming ways to make Clan of the Hydra and Rhun even better.  I’m super protective of Hydra as a unit so I’m always wary of us going down “the wrong path.”  It’s come close a couple of times so I’m trying to steer our recruitment in such a way that we will almost never have to worry about that, just because of the mindset of the people we get.  I’d like to see a bit of focus as a unit on helping Belegarth as a whole and making that part of becoming a member – be it recruiting, helping at events, or generally being active and aware of what’s going on in a healthy kind of “Go team!” way.  I’m a little concerned with the slight sense of emphasis on sport wide popularity going on (the who’s who of Belegarth and so forth) which I’m fine with as long as we don’t forget about our pre-existing members.  Once they get left by the wayside… well, I’m honestly assuming it won’t happen.  I just get paranoid. 

 

Personally, I’ve begun a quest to be a better all around fighter.  I generally prefer fighting with a 48” red sword, but I want to learn sword and board so I can help other realm and unit members with the same.  Also, sword and board is much more effective for me (at this point) on the field.  Once I have the basics of the basics down, I’m going back to red to hardcore train on that.  I approached Bo and he’s been awesome about breaking things down for me and other people.  I’m ecstatic to say that I have already seen a pretty notable increase in my skill though I have miles to go…  I need to pick one or two things, or ask Bo to suggest some, to focus on at each practice.  I’ve been overwhelming myself trying to integrate everything and that’s just not going to help me in the end.  It’s funny.  The thing Bo has said (jokingly) to help me the most was to compare (don’t judge!) Belegarth moves and stances to dancing.  I used to be big into ballroom dancing so now I just practice things at home like a dance routine.  My poor downstairs neighbors must hate me. 

 

I’m cross training as well.  I have a blue sword in my cubicle to practice switching grips and positions while I’m on the phone with customers.  I’m picking up some training weights tonight to wear on my shield arm at work so I stop getting tired so quickly (pathetic red wielder that I was…).  I’ve also been trying to run everyday around my neighborhood.  This is the hardest part because a runner, I am not.  I’m actually a great sprinter, but endurance escapes me.  I hope to change that a little bit.  This pesky respiratory ailment that I’m dealing with may stop me briefly though.  Boo.

I’m excited at just how much a change in attitude, or rather, an increased focus can improve me as a participant of this sport.  I encourage other people to do the same if they feel like they’re stuck in a rut, like I was.  I also encourage a strong sense of unit or realm pride.  If you are unhappy about something, bring it up to someone you can trust.  Don’t just let things suck.  Other people probably feel the same way as you, to an extent.  And if there is no one to go to and nothing you can change from the inside, check out another unit. 

 

Might I recommend Clan of the Hydra…?  :0)

[...]

 Structured training session IV focused on techniques for using the sword to block and the shield to attack as well as integrating footwork, attack, and defense into a cohesive entity. 

The first subject we went over was about integrating the basics. I tried running a few drills but they weren't really that good at illustrating the topic. That's definitely something I'll be working on doing better.

The next topic was about using the sword to block. The main points I covered were:

-Using the forte of weapon, i.e., the lower third of the weapon

-Using fist to intercept, i.e. punch blocking

-Arm pump

-Don't anvil

-Turning hand slightly out to block attacks to that side.

We then did a few sword blocking drills. Those went pretty well.

The last topic, and one near and dear to my heart, is about using the shield as an offensive weapon. We first covered how to shield bash. Then we went over how safely shield check someone on a knee as well as how to fall properly--tucking your chin in to prevent your head from banging into the ground-- if you happen to be on the receiving end of that. We then showed how you can use a football technique--hit the shield and then push up--to knock the opponent over with little effort. We then went over shield hooking-using the edge of the shield to hook the inside edge of your opponent's shield, thus creating an opening. You can then follow up with a cross shot to the arm, armpit, or body.

 

The next shield attack was what I call the "drive by". Basically, you step in and simultaneously use the edge of your shield to punch the inside edge of your opponent's shield. This causes the shield arm to pivot towards the body and making the back vulnerable. As you're executing this, you follow with a wrap shot to the back and then continue out of your opponent's range. We stressed how you have to not hesitate when doing this or your opponent may compensate by shifting his feet and continuing to face you. We did a few drills of this and that that was the end of the session.

 

Afterwards Cyric and I talked about how the integration topic should really have been the capstone for this session since it was about taking everything the learned up until this point and applying it. I still need to give further thought as to the kind of drills that are good for this subject.

 

Session V was the introduction to small unit (2-4 people) tactics and formations.

 

The first topic was on 2-person teams and teamwork. I first discussed the main points:

-Communicate with your partner

-Maintain awareness of the other person

-Figure out your zones of coverage

-Avoid bumping each other

-Stay within reach of each other.

-Don't get drawn out.

-Hammer and anvil-One person occupies the single fighter while the other moves to the side or back.

 

We then split the students into groups of three. Each person took turns being the single fighter while the other two worked together to try and quickly take out the single fighter.

 

The next topic was about formations and roles. I talked first about the line formation and had everyone form the line. I talked about how this presented your combat power towards the enemy but can be difficult to control and move in. The next formation was the column which was useful for moving-as long as the person in the front knows where to go, then you should be OK-and in woods battles but not useful in an open field. Your combat power is mainly to your flanks with only a single fighter directly to the front and to the back. The next one we talked about was the wedge which was useful for punching through a shield wall. I pointed out that the point person should go for a gap between shields instead of directly shield bashing a shield. I also talked about how you can set up another wedge directly behind the first one to take advantage of the opening created by the first. After talking about the wedge, we covered the vee formation which is pretty much the inverse of the wedge. The vee is useful primarily in bridge battles for forming what is called a "kill pocket". In a kill pocket, any fighter who steps into it gets hit the front and sides as he attempts to punch through. We also showed how having spears and reds can increase the effectiveness of a kill pocket. After that we talked about two shield formations, one with a spear and two shields and one with an archer and two shields. With a spear and two shields, the spear can engage the enemy outside of melee range or force opponent shields to move creating openings for the shieldmen. With an archer, the shield fighters protect archer from melee fighters as well as enemy missiles while the archer shifts position and fires between gaps. After that, I briefly covered the basic roles on the battlefield: line (front line defense), support (archer, red sword, spear, glaive), and skirmisher (using mobility for engaging the enemy from the flanks or rear).

 

We then covered how to take on a veteran. Since many of the trainees had been to Octoberfest, they had had an opportunity to see this firsthand. The main points I went over were:

-Again emphasizing communication and working together

-Hit high and low but watch the head shots

-Throw shots from unexpected angles

-Don't get separated. That's exactly what the veteran would want you to do.

 

The drills we did were very similar to the ones for the two-person teams only we were using teams of at least three.

 

The last topic of the day was on how to deal with multiple opponents. The main points were:

-Using positioning and not letting all of them be able to engage you at once.

-Singling, i.e., shifting your position so that you're only facing one opponent and the others have to take some time to catch up.

-Using positioning and singling to make them get in the way of each other.

-Gimping and going-engage one and gimp. Move on to the next one and hopefully gimp him. Move on to the next.

-Using your sword to block attacks coming from that side.

-Avoiding the kill pocket

 

The drills we did were similar to the last ones with more focus on the single fighter dealing with multiple opponents.

 

[...]

Well... what can be said about Octoberfest 2007. A great deal things.

First and formost, the awsomeness that was Octoberfest.

It was awsome.

I would like to thank our graciouse hosts on behalf of myself and Thunder-Guard. We had an excellent time, felt welcome... hell, we felt at home and didn't want to leave.

The poeple were great, the fighting was great, the food wasgreat... EVERYTHING was great.

I am excited for the next event me and mine have the privilage of attending.

I could go on quite the rant on how great it was (and belive you me, I did to any who were willing to listen) but I am far too lazy to type it all!

HAIL!

~Reverend of Thunder-Guard~

[...]

So, yeah. Me, my long lost twin, Fayla, and Taverline created the newest drink at Okfest. We decided to call it Anal Sex. If you wonder why we named it that is because once you take the first drink, it make you remenice about everything and anything sexual that you have done or want to do. Plus, Fayla and I have figured we all (who make mixed drinks for events) should create the Belegarth BrewingCo. because there are many drinks like Bug Bear Blood, Saki Dew, Anal Sex, and a couple other drinks I don't remember were there. Well, please people give suggestions and opinions about creating a Belegarth Brewing Co. that will only exist during the events. We want to know what people think, so message me like crazy!!!!!!! Thanks.

[...]

Khador stuff-

So we had six fighters represent Khador this past weekend at Oktoberfest.  Trystan, Locus, Critter, Critter's sister (I don't remember her name), Sean (Sean doesn't have a fighting name yet.  He will get one before the next event) and myself.  Lucos's son was there but was too young to fight.

I am obviously quite happy regarding this.  Usually it is just Trystan and myself who represent Khador.  We all were overwhelmed during realm battles obviously, but man did I enjoyed fighting for Khador more then anything else.  I love my growing realm.  We have been getting no fewer then fifteen per Rockford practice for the past eight weeks.  We are obviously not the best fighters but a fair number of the guys there are on the path.  They have a lot of potential.  They understand the game well, they take their hits well, and most importantly, they are eager to learn.  A few of them are or have gotten their garb and weapons together, much faster then what I was when I first started this sport.  I have high hopes for them.

 

Just like in every practice/realm, there are two or three who don't take their hits well.  Everyone knows it, so they don't take it personally.  They aren't likely to show up to events anyways.  And if they do, I encourage everyone to plow them over if they are not taking their hits.  It is the way it should be.  Anywhos, funny how in this past Sunday's practice, I was too tired to fight because I just got back from Okfest, so I just heralded the entire time.  So I saw two of them not taking a hit so I grabbed a red axe, announced that if I don't see someone taking their hit then I will red them full force.  I watched them carefully and I did not see anymore problems for the rest of practice. :)

On a Khador news note, we are going to find a indoor location here hopefully soon.  Once we do, I am going to have no fewer then twenty five posters printed off and I will distribute them in Rockford and the surrounding communities.  If this means we gain one more memeber, it is totally worth it.

CofH stuff-

I am now officially a Guard in Clan of the Hydra.  I only have two words to describe my feelings:

FUCKEN YEY!

Other then one stupid minor issue which may or may not be a problem in the future, this unit is perfect for me and I am perfect for this unit.

I just had to ware my sexy new tabard all day Sunday... afterall I didn't get home until about 9p.m. anyways.

 

 

One more thing I must comment on because I think they deserve high praise.

I was quite impressed with awesome turnout from Thunder Guard in Thunder Bay Canada.  A shitton of you guys down for a 1600 mile trip.  Way to go!

p.s. if I sound like a complete retard, I am sorry.  I have spent the last four days writing three essays that have made me feel asthough I have lost I.Q.  I guess this is what happens when I go to a community "college".

[...]

[...]

I was wondering if anyone knows of or is in,or owns a group/unit near Chicago,IL,that isnt way out there.......I hope to get in one asap,thx..

I very much miss attending events this summer! It seems like much "life" has gotten in the way of me attending things this season (both practice and events).

I hear your name in certain circles, and it always makes me smile

I spend my time thinkin' about you, and it's almost driving me wild

And there's a heart that's breaking down this long distance line tonight...

 

 

[...]