USAFSE case studies
USAFSE · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The USA Fencing Referee Seminar and Exam is the entry path into credentialed fencing officiating in the United States. It is aimed at fencers, parents, coaches, and former competitors who want to referee at local, regional, and national events, and at existing referees who need to renew or upgrade. The USAFSE case studies are 5 cases and about 1,687 words.
1The Broken Blade at the Start of the Touch
In a DE bout at 13-13, the fencer on the left (FOL) makes an attack. The director calls 'Halt' as the FOL's foil blade snaps near the forte, the tip landing on the strip.
401 words, about 2 min2Card Stacking on the Piste
In a pool bout, the FOL repeatedly commits the same infraction: crossing the lateral boundary with both feet during a retreat. The director has already issued a Group 1 card (yellow) earlier in the bout for the same action.
378 words, about 2 min3The Video Review Request That Arrives Late
In a sabre DE bout at 14-14, the FOR executes an attack that the director awards as a touch, making it 15-14 and ending the bout. The FOL immediately raises a hand and requests a video review, claiming the FOR's attack started after the FOL's parry-riposte.
329 words, about 2 min4The Missing Mask Check
During a team event, the director is assigned to a strip where the FOL's team has already fenced two bouts. Before the third bout, the director notices the FOL's mask has a small crack near the mesh edge and a loose bib strap.
317 words, about 2 min5The Director's Own Conflict
A director is assigned to a DE bout. Before the bout, the director realizes that one fencer is a student at the same club where the director coaches, and the director has personally coached that fencer within the past month.
262 words, about 1 min