The 2009-2010 season has started and we are already seeing changes in the division. We currently have more clubs in the division with the addition of Ocean State Fencing Club in RI. As the division continues to grow, we need to look at how we run and how we can improve.
One change we have already made has been in the fees for Qualifiers. We have reduced the on time entry fee from $25 to $15. This was done to increase the number of fencers at qualifiers and increase the number of people who qualify. We hope to see more fencers at these events even if they don’t expect to qualify, by participating in these event s you can help more people qualify. Although the on time fee has been reduced the late fees have stayed high so please get your entry in by the entry deadline.
We continue to have a busy tournament schedule and we continue to use askFRED for event registration. Please remember that since non qualifier events accept walk in registration, a tournament can grow much bigger than what is listed on askFRED. We frequently see events grow to twice the size of what is listed on askFRED. If you are coming to the event, please use askFRED. It helps the meet manager not have to type in your information, it allows us to check your information before you get there, it encourages more people to come to the event, and it saves you money.
We continue to need referees. If you would like to referee at an event, email or call the club running it and let them know you are interested. If you would like to become a referee, there will be a number of classes happening in the division (some are even free). We will post them on the webpage or feel free to email me and I can let you know where the next clinics will be held in the division.
David Blake
NEUSFA Division Chair