REMINDER OF GBR VS GBR SUPPORTING POLICY

With increased numbers of younger fencers representing GBR in internationals, a reminder of the policy that GBR fencers and coaches must not support against other GBR fencers and a request that attending parents, friends and family members of GBR fencers also respect this rule. 

In the unfortunate situation where GBR fencers have to fence each other, our priority is to create the fairest environment for both athletes to perform, whilst building and maintaining a unified GBR squad.

As the number of fencers competing in certain international competitions increases, GBR squad members (fencers, coaches, officials) are reminded that they should not coach, support and/or cheer against other GBR squad members.

This rule also applies to independently contracted personal coaches. If parents (or fencers) choose to contract in coaches for competitions from other countries they are responsible for ensuring that the coach is aware of the policies and codes of conduct which apply to anyone acting as a coach for a GBR fencer.

Where parents are attending competitions as acting coaches this ‘no coaching against GBR policy’ applies to them. An acting coach for the purposes of this policy includes someone who is piste side for any competitive match, irrespective of their qualification or what they might actually be saying to the fencer in the breaks or during the fencing.

These rules exist for a number of reasons. Through the #CallItAttitude work GBR fencers set out what they want it to feel like to be part of the GBR international experience, and described the behaviours that help create the sense of belonging to ‘one GBR team’. In the situation where GBR fencers need to compete against one another at an international event, the fencers should be left to fight out the match.

It is expected that GBR coaches, supporters and parents also see themselves as part of the one GBR team and act accordingly. This approach will encourage a stronger GBR squad identity and intra-squad support, especially when fencers have to subsequently come together for team events or major championships.

If GBR fencers are lucky enough to have close friends/family attending international events to support them, the supporters should be told in advance about the policy (by the parent or fencer as appropriate) and requested to remain neutral or applaud respectfully and equally the efforts of both fencers. This is especially important where U18s are competing.

We are aware that GBR fencers do have to learn to cope in situations where there is significantly more support (e.g. cheering, clapping, encouragement) for the opposition fencer. There are many other opportunities to develop this resilience especially on the opposition’s ‘home turf’.

Note on carers at International Wheelchair Fencing competitions – Some fencers will receive support from a carer during a match and that this may take the form of a family member or occasionally a member of British Fencing staff. For instances of GBR vs GBR matches this support is to be limited to a carer role, and should not cross over into advice, help, encouragement, or coaching before or during the match.

Want to feedback on this or other BF Policies? We regularly review our policies based on feedback from our community. If you would like to give us feedback on this or any other policy please click here.

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