The Code of Conduct

Our number one priority is creating a space for everyone, regardless of race, religion, gender or gender identity, orientation or club affiliation to learn, work hard, support each other and have the most fun we can cram into this event. We are committed to lifting up our community, and we expect everyone who chooses to participate or spectate to do the same. Behavior that is unwelcoming, unsafe, or discriminatory will not be tolerated at Swordsquatch. 

Squatchcode:

These last few months have been challenging beyond belief, and we hope that you can use Swordsquatch as a moment to connect with old friends, make new ones, and make plans for fighting them when this is all over.

Whether in-person or remote, we expect our attendees to play, fight, and learn with kindness, patience, and understanding. A few rules always apply:

1.     Black Lives Matter

2.     Treat everyone with kindness and respect; don't be a dick.

3.     We reserve the right to wield our banhammers with impunity.

4.     If you experience any form of harassment or feel unsafe while participating in Swordsquatch, alert a moderator as soon as possible (moderators will be identified at the start of each session). Email us at swordsquatch@gmail.com  if you need to book a time for further discussion after the event is over.

5.     Technical difficulties WILL happen. Be patient and kind with our organizers and volunteers.

Due to the fast-paced nature of online events, our organizers and volunteers will not have time to litigate disruptive behavior or distribute warnings. Bans will be immediate and permanent, and are not subject to negotiation.

In-Person Code:

Failure to abide by these guidelines may result in removal from this event.

Lonin League is hosting this event on behalf of the HEMA Alliance. Our new location is also the home of Lonin League; they are our landlords and friends, and we want to ensure our event respects their space and equipment.

 Venue Guidelines:

  • We ask that you treat the venue’s employees, space and equipment with the utmost respect, which will ensure that we are able to continue to host events such as this in the future.

  • If you are unsure if you can stand, sit, or play on a piece of equipment, ask a Swordsquatch Staff member before proceeding.

  • The venue is a family-friendly venue and children will be present throughout this event. Cursing, harsh language, and non-sanctioned fighting are prohibited.

  • Children must have proper supervision at all times and are not permitted on the equipment.

  • Alcohol is not permitted in the venue or parking lots owned by the venue.

  • Any behavior or conduct that is deemed to be disruptive to the tournaments is prohibited.

 Respect

  • Address your training partners, competitors, instructors, and event staff in a respectful way at all times.

  • Respect Lonin’s space and equipment.

  • Treat loaner weapons and equipment with care.

 Safety

  • Stay out of training areas unless you are participating and have signed the appropriate waivers.

  • Wear appropriate protective gear.

  • Use the level of contact your partner or instructor suggests. Ask for a lower level of contact if you are uncomfortable.

  • Stop whatever you are doing when someone shouts either ‘Halt’ or ‘Gear’.

  • Shout the word ‘Gear’ clearly and loudly when you experience a gear malfunction during a drill, tournament, or while sparring.

  • Shout the word ‘Halt’ when you observe two people engaged in activity who are at risk of injuring themselves or others or damaging venue space or equipment.

  • Be aware of the position of your weapon or weapon simulator at all times.

  • Be aware of your position and distance relative to your training partners at all times.

  • Inform your training partner or coach of any medical conditions or injuries you may have that could affect your safety.

  • Attending Swordsquatch may include being present at or participating in, however slight, equestrian activities. The Equine Activity Liability laws of the State of Washington, as may be amended from time to time, § RCW 4.24.540, state among the statutory provisions that “an equine activity sponsor or an equine professional shall not be liable for an injury to or the death of a participant engaged in an equine activity.”