Foil Fencing Referee and Right-of-Way Training App – Beta v0.1
Mastering priority and convention is one of the hardest parts of fencing. Whether you are a developing referee, a competitive fencer looking to understand how judges think, or a coach training your clubmates, our interactive foil fencing referee and right-of-way training app helps you make the right call under pressure. Compare your calls to FIE Refs.
How to use:
- Click the link above to go to the full screen app.
- Wait for the database of hits to be loaded into the app.
- (Optional, filter hits by theme or difficulty, or filter by clips that have been voted on by FIE refs)
- Click Random Clip to bring in a random clip to watch.
- Click Referee Mode to enter into the hit voting.
- Once in referee mode, you can make your call. Turn on and off repeat clip and slow motion using bottom left toggles. Once you click submit, you will see others answers.
Referee Training App – Improve right of way calls - If you are an FIE ref, tick the box and enter the pin to allow your calls to be counted toward FIE Ref decision to help amateur refs understand top level calls. To get the pin contact us via contact us page.
- Video clips that seem to be an error (multiple hits in one clip, testing of blades etc), click Report broken. Clips with multiple reports will be removed.
Why Practice Foil Priority?
In foil fencing, two-light touches often result in confusion if right-of-way isn’t read correctly. Regular practice helps you:
Build Confidence: Make split-second decisions on attack, counter-attack, and parry-riposte.
Avoid Penalties & Lost Points: Understand priority rules deeply to gain a tactical edge during bouts.
Support Your Club: Step up confidently to referee club bouts and local competitions.
Key Foil Rules and Conventions Covered
Off the Line – Fast attacks from the en guard lines.
Attack on Preparation vs Attacks – When a fencer attempts an attack on preparation against a hesitant or stopping fencer.
Beats vs Parries – Understanding the difference between when to give a beat for an attacker or parry from a defender.
Cards and Penalties – Understanding real world application to carding for ducking, turning, or leaving the piste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is right-of-way in foil fencing?
Right-of-way (or priority) is a set of rules that determines who gets the point when both fencers land a hit at the same time (two lights). The fencer who initiates a correct, continuous attack has priority.
Is this training tool suitable for beginners?
Yes! While designed to help aspiring referees, beginner fencers find this tool invaluable for understanding why touches are awarded against them during bouts.