Its my first practice...
Not a problem, we may look scary but we really aren't. Come on by and see what we are all about or drop us an email via the contact link above. You can find directions to the College and a campus map on the main William and Mary site here.

Okay, but what should I wear?
Loose fitting clothes that you would work out in will work for the first few practices. Mesh shorts and a T-shirts are fine. If you have a karate or judo outfit that works great. Kendo is done barefoot so you don't need any shoes. (Expect the first few practices to be hard on your feet.) You will be expected to buy the uniform eventually if you stick with it.

Do I need to bring anything?
You should bring with you a signed Waiver and Use of Weapons Agreement and just give them to one of the officers. This is paperwork to make the College happy, and we can't let you practice without it! You can find them (Appendixes U and W) here.

Don't you guys use swords or something? Do I need one of those?
Not for the first practice, you will be able to borrow one of the other club members shinai (bamboo sword) until you can get your own. We typically order them through Koryo Dojo which we are loosely associated with, and they run about 25 dollars.

Those swords hurt don't they? Do I need armor?
No, you will not need bogu (armor) for almost the first 6 months to a year of practice. The club has a few sets that can be lent out when you start to wear it. If you are interested in buying your own you should talk with Tina-sempai or one of the other club regulars and we should be able to help.

I'm not a student at the college, can I still come?
We have no fees to practice and only require the usual paperwork, but the College requires that any non-student or non-faculty member to purchase a "Privilege Card" to participate in club events. Upon securing one, we welcome visitors to practice with us!

I have another question which you didn't just cover...
Send us an email and we will try our best to answer it for you! Just use the contact link above or below.