2016 Events Archive
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   Sept 10-11, 2016 Stáv Semi-Annual Training 
with Graham Butcher
Gallowglass Academy
River Valley Complex
605 Main St, Room 108
Leaf River, IL 61047
Plane, Train, Bus and Metro pickup available by ADVANCE request, Limited overnight accommodation available.

For more information or to register, please visit: http://www.iceandfire.us/events/index.html. 
Don't miss out - Registration Deadline is August 10th!

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Gallowglass Academy is hosting the first 

We are pleased to announce the following list of fabulous instructors: 

 Standard Registration Prices - After May 1, 2015

• $200 for both Saturday and Sunday 
• $110 for Saturday 110 for Sunday 

Registrants must be a minimum of 18 years of age to participate.  

Lunch on Saturday and Sunday is included in the registration fee for participants, but you MUST register BEFORE May 20, 2015 to get lunch included.

Payment can be made through PayPal (using the buttons above) or mail a check or money order to Gallowglass Academy, PO Box 201, Leaf River, IL 61047. If sending registration by mail, please include email or phone number so we can confirm your registration.

Questions can be directed to [email protected] or call 815-973-1615

The International Pugilism Symposium will be held at 
Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center 
7801 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108
815-398-6000
www.clocktowerresort.com

Clock Tower has set aside rooms until April 29, 2015 for the following rates:

• $89 per night for up to four occupants
• $119 per night for a Coco Keys indoor water park room which includes 4 passes to the Coco Keys indoor water park. Bring the whole family!

When reserving your room, be sure to ask for the Gallowglass Academy Training Weekend block.

For those flying into O'Hare or Midway Airports in Chicago, the Coach USA/VanGalder bus service goes directly to the Clock Tower Resort. www.coachusa.com/vangalder

For all classes closed face martial arts head gear, MMA gloves and mouth guard are required. Men should also wear groin protection. 


Saturday May 30

8:45 AM Opening Remarks and Introductions.  
9:00 AM Pugilism 101: Focus on the Fundamentals w/ Tim Ruzicki
10:30 AM Power Generation via Dempsey's Method w/ Ken Pfrenger
Noon - 1:30 PM Lunch, discussion about the History of Pugilism with all Instructors
1:30 PM The Cross Counter w/ Martin Oz Austwick
3:00 PM Punch Him in the Face, Throw Him on His Head Part I w/Kirk Lawson
4:30 PM Classes end for the day

Sunday, May 31

9:00 AM Chancery w/Martin Oz Austwick
10:30 AM Punch Him in the Face, Throw Him on His Head Part II w/Kirk Lawson
Noon - 1:30 PM Lunch Break
1:30 PM The Geometry of Pugilism w/ Tim Ruzicki
3:00 PM Russian Fisticuffs w/Ken Pfrenger
4:30 PM Closing Remarks

Chancery by Martin Oz Austwick

One of the defining aspects of Early English Pugilism is the use of a variety of techniques for holding the head of your opponent. Together these techniques are known as Chancery. This session will explore the forms Chancery can take, ways to set it up, techniques to use when you have your opponent in Chancery and escapes. There will be a degree of limited free play so MMA style gloves and gumshields are recommended.

The Cross Counter by Martin Oz Austwick

This session will explore that most definitive of single time counters – The cross counter – and will firstly look at the technique in detail before going on to look at how it can be used to set up a number of other strikes, holds and throws. There will be a degree of limited free play so MMA style gloves, gumshields, and head guards are recommended.

Punch Him in the Face, Throw Him on His Head Parts I and II by Kirk Lawson

Throws for pugilism by Kirk Lawson


Power Generation via Dempsey's Method by Ken Pfrenger

Known as one of the hardest punchers ever, Jack Dempsey did all pugilists a great favor when he wrote his book "Championship Fighting". In "Championship Fighting" Dempsey details a number of the methods for power generation, we will be taking a look at each one of these methods. We should all leave the class with not only a better understanding of power generation but also the ability to put these methods into play. You will all be cracking ribs like a pro after this class.

Russian Fisticuffs by Ken Pfrenger

A peasant style of boxing that dates back to the early middle ages, fisticuffs is a rough and tumble way of fighting that works even if you are standing on a frozen lake. Characterized by both wide and tight figure eight movements, Russian fisticuffs is an interesting and useful style to throw into your pugilistic bag of tricks.

Pugilism 101: Focus on the Fundamentals by Tim Ruzicki

The basics of any martial art will always be the most important elements you can learn and practice.  Whether you're an experienced pugilist or you're taking your very first pugilism class, the building blocks of attitude and posture, footwork, bio-mechanics, and timing and distance are critical to understand and to get right.  This class will walk beginners through the fundamentals, and will help veteran pugilists correct bad habits, break through plateaus, and unlock bio-mechanic and timing/distance advantages.

The Geometry of Pugilism by Tim Ruzicki

Like all martial arts, pugilism is built on three basic geometric principles, the Straight Line, the Angle, and the Circle.  This class will explore how lines, angles and circles influence all aspects of the art, from the attitude and footwork to the delivery of blows and execution of defense.  Specific emphasis will be placed on timing, distance and proportion, and how geometry reveals secrets of time and space.  We'll be repeatedly punching each other in the face in this class, so protective headgear and mouth guards are recommended.

Martin Oz Austwick

Martin “Oz” Austwick is the Chief Instructor of the English Martial Arts Academy, and the founder of  http://Pugilism.org. He’s been researching and teaching English Martial Arts for almost twenty years, and before that racked up eight years studying Shotokan Karate. For the past decade or so he’s been focusing on attempting to recreate the pugilistic style of the Broughton’s Rules Era. He has taught by invitation across Europe and the US and is extremely excited to be part of the first International Pugilism Symposium.

Kirk Lawson

Kirk Lawson is a leading member of the Western Martial Arts community, participating as both a scholar and practitioner. Originally a 20-year veteran of the Asian Martial Arts with ranks in Tang Soo Do, Akido and Judo, Kirk has turned his attention to the historical martial systems originating primarily in Europe and also in America.

In addition to his interest and practice of classical pugilistic (boxing) methods, Kirk is a leading member of the Bartitsu Society (a group studying the 19th Century fusion of English Boxing, French Savate, the Vigny Walking Stick System, and Japanese JuJitsu), a student of the Tomahawk and Bowie Knife, from the American Frontier period, certified Expert Level 1 through The School of Two Swords, and a Free-Scholar in the Cumann Bhata (Irish Stick Fighting Society) and is a National Rifle Association certified Rifle Instructor and Range Safety Officer.

In addition to leading his Western Martial Arts study-group "Cumann Bhata-Dayton", Kirk regularly transcribes and reproduces historical Western Martial Arts Manuals, providing free electronic versions online. Kirk's original works include his contributions to Volumes I & II of the Bartitsu Compendium, and the authorship of "Banned From Boxing! The Forgotten Grappling Techniques of Historic Pugilism".

Ken Pfrenger

Ken Pfrenger is a hopologist from Northeast Ohio who has a background in teaching Muay Thai, JKD concepts and the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA). Several years ago his focus changed from the Asian arts to the Western Martial Traditions of Europe and the United States. He has
devoted most of his time researching the Martial Traditions of the various Celtic cultures, from Irish Collar and Elbow wrestling and stick play to Cornish Close Hug wrestling. To this end, Ken has served as Director of Cumann Bhata, an organization founded in 2000 to promote the study and research of stickplay common in the Irish Faicseanaíocht (faction fighting) through teaching, seminars, and publication. An avid boxing fan since a young age, Ken has been seriously studying the science of manual defence for many years. His focus now is on the techniques and fighting concepts of pugilists from the late 18th to the late 19th centuries.

Tim Ruzicki

Tim Ruzicki is one of the world’s foremost experts in classical British Pugilism, the eighteenth and nineteenth century art of bare-knuckle boxing. He has spent over twenty years studying historic and modern forms of martial arts and martial sports, including boxing, sport wrestling, combative grappling, various knife systems, Western swordsmanship, walking cane, WWII Combatives, close-quarters firearms, and various personal-protection systems. For the last fifteen years he has been practicing and teaching Pugilism, as well as researching this fascinating art through original source material at some of the world’s most famous libraries, including the Library of Congress, the New York Public Library, the Bodleian Library at Oxford, and the British Library. Tim is currently teaching Pugilism at The Barton-Wright/Alfred Hutton Alliance for Historically Accurate Hoplology and Antagonistics (BWAHAHAHA), in Seattle, Washington.

Know of anyone who might be interested, feel free to download our PDF flyer. 

Pugilismflyer.pdf
174.7 KB



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 October 4-5, 2014


May pay through PayPal below or send check or money order to: 
     Gallowglass Academy, Inc.,
     P. O. Box 201, Leaf River, IL 61047-0201
If paying by mail please include name and email or phone contact information.

Saturday & Sunday $60.00 

Saturday Only $50.00 

Sunday Only $20.00

Questions may be sent to [email protected] or call 815-973-1615



   May 10, 2014


Hosted by:
Macktown Living History Education Center
2221 Freeport Rd, Rockton IL

A close combat weapon favored by both Indian warriors and White settlers of the 18th and 19th centuries, the Tomahawk 
represents the melding of European technology and weapon 
systems with the Native use of the war club.

REQUIREMENTS: Participants should wear comfortable workout clothes, and should bring a belt or heavy sash and a Tomahawk with sheath or a 1-lb ball-peen hammer with a 16-18" wooden handle.  Protective eye wear is also required.

Gallowglass Academy suggests groin protection for men. Historical Interpreters and Reenactors of all stripes are encouraged to wear historical kit, and all participants should bring clothing appropriate for portions of the class to be held outside, weather permitting.

Send check or money order to: 
     Gallowglass Academy, Inc.,
     P. O. Box 201, Leaf River, IL 61047-0201


Need more information? Please contact us! 
815-973-1615
https://GallowglassAcademy.org
[email protected]

Printable map to Macktown: http://macktownlivinghistory.com/map.pdf

Handy flyer about this event you may have forgotten to download before.... ;)




  2009 Classes and Seminars

February 28

Introduction to The Arte of Defence (one day, two instructors:  Allen Reed and Michael Pennock)

Students in this class will be introduced to the fast paced and exciting martial art of European swordplay of the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Students will learn fencing as it was practiced throughout western Europe based on the instructors' study of both historic treatises and modern texts, and work with other scholars in the use of the rapier. 
 
Those interested in taking this class will be actors and re-enactors who want to learn more about the historic fighting style they are recreating, martial artists who want to learn more about their European heritage and, of course, anyone who has grown up watching the great swashbuckling movies from Hollywood!

Equipment:  Rapier simulator, mask, gloves, doublet or equivalent heavy long-sleeved shirt or sweatshirt.  Some equipment will be available for loan (please do ask, ahead of time!).  Groin protection required for men, recommended for women.

April 18-19  CANCELLED

Cossacks on the Rock River
or
An Introduction to ROSS- Russian Martial Arts from a Biomechanical Perspective

This two-day seminar will present an overview of the ROSS system of Russian martial arts developed by Alexander Retuinskih from traditional methods and modern sport science, then taught to various units in the Russian Special Forces. The seminar will present the core concepts of the system, as well as a selection of exercises designed to teach students of all backgrounds to begin to move effectively.

Day 1 will focus primarily on empty-hand material, and will cover an introduction to:
     Range of motion exercises to improve movement, balance, and coordination
     A selection of specialized combat acrobatics for supple strength and agility 
     Basic striking exercises from Russian fisticuffs and hand-to-hand combat  
     Defensive exercises emphasizing fluid motion and avoidance of force 
     Methods of controlling your opponent’s joint structure and balance 
     Fluid response exercises to begin applying the motions and concepts in a controlled
          but realistic environment

Day 2 will focus primarily on knife defense, and will include:  
     Basic exercises to develop dexterity, coordination, and comfort with a knife 
     Additional defensive movements and drills  
     Foundational movements of the ROSS sport knife fighting system 
     Yet more fluid response exercises for safe practice

The ROSS system builds sophisticated actions out of simple movement concepts. So, while either day’s class can stand alone, the most satisfying results will be obtained through attendance on both days.

ROSS
     The ROSS training system, or Russian Style of Hand-to-Hand Combat was developed by Mr. Alexander Retuinskih from the Spiridonovian System (SAMOZ- a Russian martial style that came in to use during World War I) combined with his extensive background in SAMBO. 
     Additionally, in creating ROSS, Mr. Retuinskih drew heavily from other traditional Russian martial styles, including: Buza, Skobar, the fighting systems of the Cossacks, and other lineages which had been preserved through the centuries. 
     Often confused with the Systema of Mr. Vladimir Vasiliev and Mr. Mikhail Ryabko, ROSS is a distinct style with its own teaching methods and theories. However, as is true with almost all Russian martial styles, there are definite similarities in approach- such as the absence of "techniques" and the use of free, unrestricted movement. 
     ROSS is an acronym for the Russian words meaning: The Native Russian System of Self Defense.
(Primary source: Retuinskih, A. I. Russian Style of Hand-to-Hand Combat: The "ROSS" Training System. American Academy for Russian Martial Art and Combat Skill, 1997.)

Randal Gustitis has been training in the martial arts for 24 years. His early training was in Karate, Taijiquan, and Western fencing, although he has branched out over the years to also include a variety of Eastern and Western martial arts. An amateur hoplologist, he has traveled to New Zealand, where he was the first mainland American to be ranked in the Maori martial arts, as well as to Portugal to research and study Jogo do Pau. 
     In the Western arts, Randal is a ROSS instructor, and an avid practitioner of Jogo do Pau do Ilha Terceira. He is actively involved in the interpretation of Joachim Meyer’s quarterstaff, and of the rapier manual of Girard Thibault, which is derived from the Spanish school of swordsmanship.  
     In the Eastern arts, Randal is an instructor of Yang style Taijiquan, with 22 years experience, and holds a Sandan ranking in Meishin Muso Ryu Iaido. He is currently a silat student in the Sutrisno Family System under Guru Tristan Sutrisno. 
     Additionally, Randal runs a ROSS/Jogo do Pau club at Bryn Mawr College, and occasionally teaches wushu for Physical Education credit at the college.

July 25 CANCELLED!

Fighting with the Highland Dirk
July 25 @River Valley Complex
605 S. Main St., Leaf River IL
Allen Reed, Instructor

Site Opens at 9 AM, Seminar runs from 10 AM to 5 PM
$50 registration fee until July 15; $75 at the door

Learn the close in fighting style of the Highland Scots using the dirk.  Class will involve learning the background of the use of the dirk, guards, attacks, grappling and throws.
     Participants should wear comfortable workout clothes with soft soled shoes. Also, must have a heavy duty sweatshirt, light jean jacket or equivalent and a pair of protective glasses (sport goggles, shooting glasses or equivalent.) Men must wear an athletic cup.

2010 classes and seminars

      CANCELLED
February 2-March 9, 2010 -- Tuesdays 8-9pm

     Learn techniques for protecting and defending yourself in a variety of situations. Men and women can benefit from the physical and mental aspects of this training, offered by our experienced instructor
     Book:  Self-Defense: Steps to Survival, by Katy Mattingly; published 2007 by Human Kinetics
     Participants should wear comfortable clothing. Men must wear an athletic cup. Also suggest note pad and pen.

March 6, 2010 -- Saturday, 10am-4pm

James Bowie and His Knife
Highland Community College WEST CAMPUS
Elizabeth, IL 
Allen Reed, Instructor

     James Bowie was an iconic figure in the early American West. He was an entrepreneur, politician, and soldier.
     Bowie survived major wounds during the famous Vidalia Sandbar fight in 1827 and went on to join the Texas Revolution against Mexico where he died with David Crockett and William Travis at the Alamo in 1836. 
     This class will examine the life and times of Bowie, and students will learn how to use the big fighting knife given Bowie’s name by knife makers and those who used it throughout the 19th century.
     Comfortable workout clothing including long sleeved sweatshirt, safety glasses, men must wear an athletic cup.  Also suggest forearm pads (soccer shin pads) and light leather gloves, such as work/gardening gloves.
     Students may also want to bring a fencing mask or other full face protective device.  Some loaner gear will be available.

Bartitsu! The Martial Art of Sherlock Holmes

with Allen Reed

In 1898, the New Art of Self Defence called Bartitsu was introduced to England by Edward William Barton-Wright.   Bartitsu was a combination of savate, jiujitsu, pugilism, and walking stick fighting.  Barton-Wright developed Bartitsu to defeat the fearsome street gangs of Edwardian London.
    By combining Asian and European fighting styles, Bartitsu may well have been the first Mixed Martial Art.  Conan Doyle had Sherlock Holmes use Bartitsu against Professor Moriarty, his mortal enemy, to throw him from the top of Reichenbach waterfall.
    This class will provide a practical beginning in this historical system, as well as how to use it for modern self defense. 

REQUIREMENTS: Participants should wear comfortable workout clothes, and should bring a sturdy walking stick, cane or 3/4"-1" diameter dowel rod of about 36" long. Gallowglass Academy requires groin protection for men, and recommends it for women.

A close combat weapon favored by both Indian warriors and White settlers of the 18th and 19th centuries, the Tomahawk represents the melding of European technology and weapon systems with the Native use of the war club.

REQUIREMENTS: Participants should wear comfortable workout clothes, and should bring a belt or heavy sash and a Tomahawk with sheath or a 1-lb ball-peen hammer with a 16-18" wooden handle. 

Gallowglass Academy requires groin protection for men, and recommends it for women.  Reenactors of all stripes are encouraged to wear historical kit, and all participants should bring clothing appropriate for portions of the class to be held outside, weather permitting.

 

Unrecognized Guid format.Women's Self Defense 

Saturday, July 10, 2010 1-5 PM
River Valley Complex (room #108)
605 Main St., Leaf River, IL 61047 
 
You have the absolute right to defend yourself
 
Gallowglass Academy offers a 4-hour self defense class led by Association for Women’s Self Defense Advancement (AWSDA) members and Certified Instructors Andrea Dubnick & Allen Reed.

Class is open to women only, 14 and older.  Parent or legal guardian must accompany women under 18. 

Tuition for the class will be $15 each, $10 each additional family member.   No martial arts experience or athletic ability necessary.  Wear comfortable workout clothes or street-wear.  Need-based scholarship assistance may be available – please ASK!

Preregister by June 30, 2010 by mail (PO Box 201, Leaf River, IL 61047) phone (815-973-1064) or email ([email protected])    

Please download this PDF flyer and post at your gym, grocery, church, and/or local pub  

Unrecognized Guid format.More Bowie Knife History and Combat

$50 registration until July 15   

$75 thereafter or at the door 

    The Bowie knife in the hands of a well trained fighter is one of the most devastating weapons ever developed.  This seminar introduces a practical and efficient system of using a Bowie knife.
    Named for James Bowie, who killed his mortal enemy Norris Wright with a large knife at the Vidalia Sandbar Fight in 1827, the Bowie knife came to be carried by soldiers, mountain men and settlers throughout the United States.
   
Students should wear comfortable work out clothes including a heavy duty sweatshirt, light leather gloves, rigid eye protection, and a belt.  Men must wear an athletic cup. 
    Other suggested gear includes fencing mask or closed face martial arts head protection; padded gloves, such as hockey gloves or equivalent; martial arts chest protection; forearm protection, such as soccer shin pads; rigid elbow protection, such as for street hockey.  Some loaner gear will be available.

Please download this PDF flyer and post at your gym, grocery, laundromat, church, and/or local pub   

Unrecognized Guid format."Warrior Spirit" Exercise Class
Sep 7 - Nov 23

Every country and cultre has stories of famous warriors who underwent physical training to find their warrior spirit.  Both men and women are invited to work together in the class to find that spirit themselves. The class will involve learning martial arts moves both with empty hands and with a weapon, as well as physical conditioning exercises.  Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring a 3-ft dowel rod, -3/4 to 1-inch in diameter. 

Unrecognized Guid format. Advanced Tomahawk
October 23 10am-5pm
(site opens at 9am; class limited to 10)

The tomahawk is a classic American weapon. Used historically by both white settlers and Native American warriors, it is a fearsome close combat weapon. In the modern age the tomahawk is once again being used by the American military.
     The Advanced Tomahawk seminar will focus on the use of the combination of the tomahawk and knife. It will include using these weapons against single and multiple foes as well as foes using other weapons.  Also included will be fighting on the run and using combat throws.
     Participants should wear comfortable workout clothing including a long sleeved sweat shirt or equivalent. Historic garb is not required but is encouraged. Men must wear an athletic cup.
     Required gear: Tomahawk with sheath or ball peen hammer, belt or sash and rigid eye protection. 
     Other suggested equipment: Full martial arts head protection with a closed face or fencing mask, gorget or other rigid throat protection, padded torso protection, hard shell elbow and knee protection (e.g. roller blade gear or equivalent), padded gloves.
     Instructor will have some loaner equipment.
     Prerequisites: Attendance at previous Gallowglass Academy seminar, study with other tomahawk instructor, or permission of the instructor.

  $50 until October 9
  $75 thereafter, and at the door.

 
You have the absolute right to defend yourself
 
Gallowglass Academy offers a 4-hour self defense class led by Association for Women’s Self Defense Advancement (AWSDA) members and Certified Instructors Andrea Dubnick & Allen Reed.

Class is open to women only, 14 and older.  Parent or legal guardian must accompany women under 18. 

Some real-life, easy-to-learn techniques to avoid a bad situation, defuse an escalating situation, and escapte grabs, holds, and strikes.  No martial arts experience or athletic ability required.  We will work with any age woman over 14.  Wear comfortable workout clothes or street-wear.  Need-based scholarship assistance may be available – please ASK!

Tuition for the class will be $15 each, $10 each additional family member.   

Preregister by October 8, 2010 by mail (PO Box 201, Leaf River, IL 61047) phone (815-973-1064) or email ([email protected])







The class will be taught by Mark Philpot of Carry Safe Training, Inc.  Cost will be $125 per person. Registration is limited to ten students, so register early. Registration is through Carry Safe Training at www.carrysafetraining.com

The class is NOT a shooting class. It is the mandatory 4-hour class to allow registration for a Utah CCW permit. Cost for the class includes having fingerprints taken during the class, but does not cover the cost of a required photo and a $65.25 processing fee charged by the State of Utah.

Those who are issued a Utah CCW permit are allowed to carry a concealed weapon in many states of the U.S., but NOT Illinois and Wisconsin.  Answers to many questions can be found at the Carry Safe Training website or should be directed to Mark Philpot, [email protected]



You have the absolute right to defend yourself
 
Gallowglass Academy offers a 4-hour self defense class led by Association for Women’s Self Defense Advancement (AWSDA) members and trained Instructors Andrea Dubnick & Allen Reed.

Class is open to women only, 14 and older.  Parent or legal guardian must accompany women under 18. 

Some real-life, easy-to-learn techniques to avoid a bad situation, defuse an escalating situation, and escape grabs, holds, and strikes.  No martial arts experience or athletic ability required.  We will work with any age woman over 14.  Wear comfortable workout clothes or street-wear.

Tuition for the class will be $35.   Preregister through Highland Community College for class 6879 PERS 34 ACC by calling 815-235-6121

Unrecognized Guid format.Utah/Florida Concealed Carry Weapons (CCW) Permit Training

The class will be taught by Mark Philpot of Carry Safe Training, Inc. Cost is $125 per person. Registration is limited to ten students, through Carry Safe Training at www.carrysafetraining.com

The class is NOT a shooting class. It is the mandatory 4-hour class to allow registration for a Utah or Florida CCW permit. Cost for the class includes having fingerprints taken during the class, but does not cover the cost of a required photo and a $65.25 processing fee charged by the State of Utah.

Those who are issued a Utah or Florida CCW permit are allowed to carry a concealed weapon in many states of the U.S., although NOT Illinois or Wisconsin at this time.  Answers to many questions can be found at the Carry Safe Training website or should be directed to Mark Philpot, [email protected]



You have the absolute right to defend yourself
 
Gallowglass Academy offers a 4-hour self defense class led by Association for Women’s Self Defense Advancement (AWSDA) members and trained Instructors Andrea Dubnick & Allen Reed.

Class is open to women only, 14 and older.  Parent or legal guardian must accompany women under 18. 

Some real-life, easy-to-learn techniques to avoid a bad situation, defuse an escalating situation, and escape grabs, holds, and strikes.  No martial arts experience or athletic ability required.  We will work with any age woman over 14.  Wear comfortable workout clothes or street-wear.

Tuition for the class will be $35.   Preregister through Highland Community College for class 1315 PERS 34 ACC by calling 815-235-6121



Unrecognized Guid format.March 12


Saturday, March 12, 2011; 9-5
River Valley Complex (room #108, and gymnasium)
605 Main St., Leaf River, IL 61047 


Tim Lyon (Sir LOGOS, KSCA)
     This class will provide a basic introduction to the art of sharp sword and buckler in the Bolognese tradition. We will explore the two basic guards, the supporting footwork, and the parries and attacks. Time permitted, we will explore some provocations and set plays that should help tie it all together.

Allen Reed (Baron Aelfred of Chester, OP/SCA)
     In this portion of this seminar we will work on the short sword portion of Silver's Brief Instructions Upon My Paradoxes of Defence.

Patrick Bailey (Lord Patrick von Brandenburg, SCA)
Gear:  Students need a buckler and cut and thrust sword simulator (a rapier is not ideal; some spare swords may be available). Drills will be controlled but standard protective equipment (mask, gloves, etc.) is recommended.

     $50 until March 5
     $75 thereafter and at the door

Here's a PDF flyer for you to help publicize this event (thank you)



Unrecognized Guid format.May 21 


Morning: round-table with authors published and yet-to-be about writing better action scenes, in and out of the boudoir!

Afternoon: demonstrations and practicum of historical swordplay, medieval mounted combat, and modern firearms by Members of Gallowglass Academy

AUTHORS:  David M. Youngquist, Ophelia Julien, Angeli Primlani, Sylvia Shults

GALLOWGLASS ACADEMY: swords, Equi-Sim mounted combat, guns

No martial arts or firearms training required!  Not a shooting class! No live horses!

Portions of the class may be held outside, weather permitting.

 $30 until May10
  $50 thereafter and at the door

Here is a PDF flyer for you! 



Unrecognized Guid format.June 21 - July 19 7pm

(draft)
Bartitsu, a fascinating addition to the Manly Art of Self Defense, has been developed by the Englishman Edward Barton-Wright by combining good old fashioned pugilism with a cane fighting system developed by Monsieur Vigny from Switzerland, and a Japanese wrestling art called jujutsu.   



Unrecognized Guid format.begins September 12


Do your sons and daughters pick up any stick and swing it like a sword, fighting like knights, Jedi warriors, pirates, or Warrior Princesses?  Why not let them actually learn to use a sword in a safe, structured environment?  Allen Reed is an instructor who has been teaching historical fencing for over twenty years.

Gallowglass Academy, in Leaf River IL, will offer Beginning Swordplay classes for 10- to 14-year-olds this autumn. The class will instruct students on proper etiquette and safe use and practice with a sword.  Classes will also discuss the history of European martial arts.  

Yes, Europe’s martial arts tradition is as long as any in China and Japan. These arts included everything from unarmed self defense to the use of swords and other weapons. Our Young Gallowglass classes will offer instruction in both swordplay and, in more advanced sessions, self defense against today’s dangers.

45-minute classes will begin on September 12, for seven Mondays. Two time slots are available to fit your family’s schedule: after school from 4:30 to 5:15 PM, and 7:00 to 7:45 PM. The cost for each six-week session is $30.00. The first class is free, and a parent or guardian must attend.

Students will need a heavy long-sleeve shirt, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a pair of sturdy gloves (batting gloves, for example).  Gallowglass Academy requires groin protection for males. 

Class size is limited, so please pre-register now by telephone 815-973-1064 or email [email protected].  Don’t forget to ask about our family discount!  And do please ask about adult (14 years and up) instruction, too!   We can provide references upon request.

  $30.00 for 6 weeks (plus one FREE!)




Unrecognized Guid format.7-9pm, Monday, July 25 and Wednesday, July 27, 2011
 
Gallowglass Academy offers a 4-hour self defense class led by Association for Women’s Self Defense Advancement (AWSDA) members and trained Instructors Andrea Dubnick & Allen Reed.

Class is open to women only, 14 and older.  Parent or legal guardian must accompany women under 18. 

Some real-life, easy-to-learn techniques to avoid a bad situation, defuse an escalating situation, and escape grabs, holds, and strikes.  No martial arts experience or athletic ability required.  We will work with any age woman over 14.  Wear comfortable workout clothes or street-wear.

Tuition for the class is $15; $25 "family discount" for any two women signing up together -- mothers, daughters, sisters, friends!

  $15.00

  $25.00 "two-fer"

   Some Prominent Guest Trainers

Jeannette Acosta-Martínez is a professional restorer of antique furniture who specializes in works of the 17th and 18th centuries. This, together with her interest in antique weapons, led her to the study of fencing.  She began under the tutelage of Mâitre d'Armes Frederick Rohdes, and after his death in 1984, continued with his protégé Maestro Ramón Martínez. In all, Maestro Acosta-Martínez has spent a total of 20 years studying traditional fencing, both classical and historical. In 1995, she became an instructor at Martínez Academy of Arms, as well as the Academy's business manager. She also became Maestro Martínez' assistant at all his demonstrations and seminars.

Gary M. Chelak began studying historical fencing in 1994 while attending college. He served as both assistant and primary historical fencing instructor. Mr. Chelak earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Northern Arizona University with an extended major in Visual Communication. A nationally recognized designer, in 2001 he refocused to full time graphic arts instruction at a private college. Since then he has received multiple awards, including Outstanding MultiMedia Instructor.
     As a vice president of Tattershall Academy, Gary heads the Southern California branch of TSD, bringing a unique mix of competitive experience, academic research and creative padagogy. Instruction is available in the Italian systems of rapier, sidesword & longsword, with classes also available in Germanic swordplay and French smallsword. Additional studies include Italian & Germanic unarmed arts. Gary is currently completing his translation and interpretation of Nicolettó Giganti’s 1606 rapier text, due for publication in September 2004. His next project, focusing on Camillo Agrippa’s 1553 sidesword text, is also underway.
     Known as Giacomo Cavalli da Treviso in the Society for Creative Anachronism, Gary is a member of the Defenders of the White Scarf, the organization's highest award for fence. Heavily involved with program & curriculum development in all three venues, Gary is currently seeking entry into the Cal. State M.F.A. program.

Bob Charron received his Bachelor of Science and Education from the University of Arkansas in 1985, then spent twenty years participating in Historical Reenactment of the Medieval era. His personal research and training in education led him to teach classes in topics ranging from Vegetius’ De Rei Militari to Government and Law in 12^th- and 13^th-Century Jerusalem. 
     Always seeking after primary source material in the use and instruction of arms, he acquired a copy of the Getty-Ludwig manuscript of the Fior di Bataglia, a treatise written by Fiore Dei Liberi, the early 15^th century instructor at arms to the court of Nicolo d’Este, Marquise da Ferrara. This master work includes an extensive prologue describing Fiore’s personal experience and advice to the combatant, a complete explanation of the structure of the treatise, and a list of his famous students and their opponents. Following this introduction are hundreds of illustrations and accompanying paragraphs of text explaining this complete martial arts system and its concepts as it moves from hand-to-hand combat, knife fighting, swordplay, the use of the spear and the pollaxe, and ends with techniques for the mounted combatant.
     Bob has spent the last several years translating the text, interpreting the techniques, and further researching the scientific principles on which the art is based and the biographies of the men who employed it. He teaches weekly classes and private lessons through St. Martins Academy of Medieval Arms, a martial arts academy using the Fior di Bataglia as its curriculum for instruction. He has traveled the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe teaching the material from the treatise, and a book project is underway in cooperation with the Getty Museum and Chivalry Bookshelf publishers. He has presented two papers at the Kalamazoo Medieval Conference on Fiore’s work, with a third scheduled for the 2004 session.

Pete Kautz is the Director of Alliance Martial Arts and the Founder of the American Heritage Fighting Arts Association. Mr. Kautz is well known in the Western arts community for his work in researching and teaching the 15^th century German and 19^th century American fighting methods in seminars worldwide. With over 25 years experience in the martial arts, he is a respected instructor and recognized by such diverse groups as the International Master at Arms Federation, Hock Hochheim’s Scientific Fighting Congress, and James Keating’s Combat Technologies. Visit Alliance Martial Arts and the American Heritage Fighting Arts Association online at AllianceMartialArts.com and AHFAA.org for articles, photo techniques, links, reviews, and more.

James Loriega began his formal edged weapons training in 1967 when he embarked on a lifelong study of martial arts with Ronald Duncan. In the mid-70s, after achieving various instructor-level ranks in Asian systems, Loriega gained his first exposure to the Western martial traditions under the tutelage of Maitre Michel Alaux, a former coach to the US Olympic Fencing Team. It was from Maitre Alaux, and his assistant at the time, Ms. Julia Jones, that Loriega learned the rudiments of epee and saber. 
     In September of 1980, Loriega founded the New York Ninpokai, the city’s premiere training academy for the traditional arts of ninjutsu. In 1990, while conducting ninjutsu seminars in Spain, Loriega discovered the acero sevillano knife arts of Andalusia. These arts include the use of the cuchillo (knife), puñal (stiletto), bastón de estoque (sword cane), bastón de paseo (walking stick), and navaja (clasp knife). His summers from 1991 to 1996 were spent in Seville learning the intricacies of these Andalusian arts. 
     In August of 1996, Loriega received certification as an instructor de Armas Blancas Sevillanas under Maestro de Armas Santiago Rivera, then headmaster of the Escuela Sevillana de Armas Blancas. At this time he also completed his first translation of Manual del Baratero. 
     Since 1996, he has operated a recognized branch of the Escuela Sevillana in New York City known as the Raven Arts Institute. 
     In September of 2000, following the publication of Sevillian Steel, Loriega was formally acknowledged as a Maestro de Armas Blancas Sevillanas. 
     In January of 2002, Loriega was inducted into the International Masters-at-Arms Federation (IMAF), where he is recognized for his mastery of the navaja and other Andalusian edged weapons. Based in Milan, Italy, the mission of the IMAF is "to preserve, study, practice and teach the martial Arts of the western world heritage. Furthermore, it is the intention of the IMAF to function as a guild of professional teachers in keeping with the tradition and heritage of arms." 
     Loriega’s extensive writings have appeared in mainstream martial arts publications such as Black Belt, Warriors, Ninja, and Tactical Knives. His first book, Sevillian Steel: The Traditional Knife-Fighting Arts of Spain, (1999 Paladin Press) presents an overview of the edged weapons culture, styles, and strategies of this western martial tradition.   
     A second book, Scourge of the Dark Continent, (1999 Loompanics) outlines the history and martial applications of the African sjambok (a rod-like whip made from rhinoceros hide.) Following the present annotated English-language translation of the 19^th century Manual del Baratero, Loriega plans to complete a sequel to Sevillian Steel, detailing the technical intricacies of using the navaja.    
     Loriega continues to travel and to train, in addition to offering instruction at the Raven Arts Institute, where courses are available in the use of the folding knife, stiletto, sword-cane, walking stick, improvised weaponry, and unarmed combatives.

Ramón Martínez studied classical fencing with the late Maître d'Armes Frederick Rohdes in New York for ten years. Maître Rohdes was one of the last fencing masters to teach fencing as a martial art. During that time Mr. Martínez became assistant and protégé of Maître Rohdes and was the only one of his pupils permitted to teach with full authorization at the Rohdes Academy. In late 1982, shortly before his death, Maître Rohdes conferred the rank of Fencing Master on Mr. Martínez.  Mr. Martínez is well known for his instruction in La Destreza, the art of the Spanish rapier.

Sue Michaelsen is an authorized Jin Shin Do® Acupressure teacher with extensive training in Internal Martial Arts and Sports Massage Therapy. She is certified in Orthorpedic Massage Therapy as well.  She has trained in swordwork with Anthony De Longis and Master Helen Wu.  Sue is the first U.S. citizen to earn Master Helen Wu Teaching Certification for Internal Martial Arts for Health and Healing.  See www.SueMichaelsen.com for more information.

William Wilson is the President of the Tattershall School of Defence, which is devoted to the study and practise of the Art of Defense of the 15th, 16th and early 17th Centuries, including wrestling and the use of the dagger as well as fencing.  He is also the advisor and coach for the fencing club at Northern Arizona University, and serves on the advisory board for Swordplay Symposium International.
     Within the Society for Creative Anachronism, Bill is known as Barwn Meistr Gwylym ab Owain, OL OP DWS, the premiere member of the Order of the White Scarf of Atenveldt, the highest award for fencing in the Kingdom.  In the SCA he has also been awarded masters level status for his research in historical swordplay and study of lifestyle of the Elizabethan period.  
  Bill has been fencing for 29 years, beginning his instruction under Master Bella from Canada and Mr. Silverberg in Buffalo, NY. Further instruction included training with Maestro Sean Hayes of Eugene, OR, and Dr, Rita Ashcraft of Northern Arizona University.
    A prominent researcher in historical swordplay, he teaches seminars internationally on the use of the Italian rapier and the Italian 16th century civilian spada da filo (edged sword/sidesword).  An expert in the use of rapier, he has written and published the book The Art of Defense. He has studied many original texts and is in the process of working on translations of Italian fencing manuals.   
     Bill specializes in teaching beginners either classical foil, epee or saber and teaches beginning and advanced students the art of defence with rapier and sword.  He also teaches beginning longsword and backsword.  Bill currently teaches beginning Italian foil for the PE department at Northern Arizona University.
     Send e-mail to [email protected] to reach William Wilson directly.


OUT OF STOCK ITEMS!

Raw DVD Footage

These four are each 60-90 minutes of instruction with Allen Reed, without editing.  The camera was set up by one of the participants, so the action may wander in and out of the frame occasionally.  Outdoor sound quality may be less than optimal.  Good content, though!  $10 plus shipping Contact Kirk Lawson directly:  [email protected]  Cunningham's "Cane as a Weapon" Swetnam's Rapier and Dagger Introduction to Silver's Single Sword Ambushed!  Under Sudden Attack with a Big Knife!

Unrecognized Guid format. A Gallowglass Exclusive! Dancing with Swords: A Workout Video  You loved our homemade xerox copied version in the plain brown envelope.  You eagerly downloaded all 11 pages of the.PDF version!  Now for the modern age, a live-action realization of Allen Reed's adaptation of Martin "Farmer" Burns' workout set for sword practitioners. No matter which art is yours -- longsword, saber, epee, kendo, or other Oriental blade -- we think you'll enjoy this set.   This hour-long DVD also includes a breathing set, a historical sword moves set, and a cool-down set.  Copyright 2010.