After reading your article “Free to fight” on Thursday, I felt the need to write in and clarify some points. I was a member of the Tir Asleen Medieval Combat Society for the five years I attended ISU, and I feel the emphasis of the article might mislead your readers.

First of all, the “role-playing” aspect of the game is definitely secondary to the physical portion of the game. New fighters are not required to wear garb, or even come up with a fighting name right away. In fact, the main reason they encourage the creation of a character name is very practical: Many people have the same first name and it decreases confusion. Also, while some members do choose to make their character a non-human race, this is not required and is really just for flair and fun.

Secondly, this sport is quite safe. They adhere to strict safety standards laid down by the national organization. Every weapon is tested before being allowed in the game. While occasional injuries do occur, the sport is no more hazardous than any other contact sport.

Finally, the group is not as serious and competitive as the article made it out to be. In fact, they are a very laid-back group of people who love the sport and are always welcome in finding new members. While they may dress up in costume and stage mock battles, it is all in fun and not taken too seriously. I would encourage anyone who is curious about the club to go out to Parks on Tuesday night and just watch for a while to get the gist of it.

I’m very glad your reporting staff took the time to come out, meet the club and publish a prominent article in the Daily about them.

I also appreciate the opportunity to clarify a few points that may have been lost in translation. I understand it can be a difficult subject to write about from an outside perspective. Thank you!

Jennifer Poole

Alum, Mathematics