purp wrote:I had never thought the females would get discouraged, or be intimidated by the males in the sport. If that is the case, I really think that should be a focal point. If you are afraid of fighting someone you'll do stupid things, like closing your eyes, or ducking.
Most of our sport populous is male, if you're nervous about them on the field, stay off of it. I and many other fighters will fight you just as hard as everyone else. There are also people that will target you because you are female, others wont take your shots. These are the things I think you should communicate to all of the females at the classes. If they aren't ready to deal with some of it they should leave.
I tried to word this without being to offensive, if so, that was not my intention. You have my support, but only if you're as serious about this as you want other people to take you.
Purp I am a bit concerned with your posts regarding House Valkyries. I encourage you to give me a call if you have further questions regarding the goals behind our fighting female-only House. Moreover please know when you end a post by saying "I tried to word this without being offensive"- your post may need further editing. Creating a class takes lots of effort & running a House, much like a Unit, takes passion. Before throwing "i think" statements of how you think House Valkyrie should be running classes- take the time to ask us individually about our purpose. Here are some of my observations for you and others to read:
- Last year's House Valkyrie class encouraged 40+ women to fight on the field. Half of them were female fighters new to Belegarth. That being said last year was the FIRST time I'd ever seen that many women on a Belegarth fighting field.
- We are beginning to recognize women may fight differently than men and are taking this opportunity to explore what these potentially advantageous differences hold for us.
-
Because this sport is male dominant it's a VERY comfortable atmosphere for us to learn together and then apply what we've learned on the field.
-Female fighters have thanked me for throwing last years Valkyrie class because some never felt the need or thought to ask any of the good fighters for tips.
-Some women who have been titled "Blah-Blah's GF" are finding a place within House Valkyries and making a name for themselves by becoming active on the fighting field.
-Because of House Valkyries I have met and now recognize tons more women during events. This is causing more cohesion among women in Belegarth regardless of unit, state, or realm differences
- Our purpose is to teach, meet and spend time together as fighting ladies, please don't ruin our fun!
Purp, not everyone is gregarious, outspoken and bold such as yourself. I greatly enjoy these things about you but keep in mind not everyone has these characteristics and thats ok. When I first started Belegarth I was taught how to fight by practicing with heavy hitters and learned the hard way how to defend myself on the field, personally I wouldn't suggest this to any newb male or female. It was only when I met Ricket, Lyric, Shinock, Megs and other wonderful vet fighter women that I realized there are other great methods/suggestions from vet women fighters. Looking back I would have loved being part of a group like House Valkyries to help me network/introduce me to other fighters and show me the ropes as a female newb.
Some men and women need more time to warm up to others and get the courage to ask for help.
Purp I want you to know while your support is greatly welcomed it is not needed. As a house we don't need to prove to anyone but ourselves how serious we are about fighting.
) and that when at events you are on the field as much as the boys and show commitment and desire. 
But I will be there to cheer all of you on.
