User Guide

Marshal’s Manual: IV. Marshalling Tournaments Page 9 of 36

2. Fencing

The border of a list field shall be composed of at least one (1) strand of rope (minimum size 3/8”),

strung at least thirty inches (30") high at the posts. Posts that support two (2) strands of rope, one

along the top and one in the middle, are preferred. The lower strand assists in keeping small

children from running onto the field. The top of posts used to hold the list field rope must not end

in a point that could cause injury if fallen upon.

3. External Border

The list field must have an external area of at least five feet (5') out that is to be kept clear of tent

ropes, spectators, equipment, etc. A second set of ropes and poles is recommended, but not

required. For multiple, connected list fields, a five foot (5') border between the list fields is not

necessary.

4. Entrances

Each list field should have at least 2 entrances.

5. Hazards

Examine the inside of the field for gopher holes or sprinkler heads, filling holes if possible or

moving the list field if the hazard cannot be avoided.

Since most park sprinkler-heads are flat and mostly flush with the ground, informing the

combatants of where they are should be sufficient.

C. Combat Initiation

1. Opening Court

At opening court, the Marshal of the Field shall inform the populace of the days tournament

activities, the order of combat, and any other relevant information or special rules associated with

the days combat. Local customs that limit target areas or types of blows should be mentioned if

there are combatants from out of the area who may not be aware of them.

2. Sword Oath

Once the lists are closed, all combatants must take the sword oath. Announce loudly, at least twice

that “Combatants must now gather neigh for the Sword Oath!” Once all are gathered, perform the sword

oath (See Appendix D: Oaths)

3. Inspections

After the sword oath has been given, begin conducting armor and weapons inspections.

4. Announcement

A herald or marshal should announce how long is left until combat begins. Make this

announcement twice:

• Once at least twenty (20) minutes before the first combat is to begin, and

• Again five (5) minutes before the first combat is to begin

5. Marshals' Meeting

The Marshal of the Field calls together all people wishing to marshal that day, informing them of

special rules they need to be aware of or things they need to watch for. If there are multiple list

fields, the Marshal of the Field assigns marshals to the field they will run for the day.