Whidbey Swordplay Association
Membership Agreement and Waiver of Liability

1. Membership Terms

By signing this Membership Agreement and Waiver of Liability, you agree to abide by the rules, policies, and guidelines set forth by the Whidbey Swordplay Association. This agreement is intended to outline the responsibilities and expectations of membership, including payment of dues, participation in activities, and the assumption of risk.

2. Membership Dues

SUGGESTED membership dues are $10 per practice, OR $20 per month, OR $200 per year, payable at the beginning of each month. Dues contribute to the acquisition and maintenance of equipment, rental of practice space, and other operational costs. If you are financially un-able to make a payment, please come anyways as we would rather you be here with us.

Payment Method: Dues may be paid via cash, check, or Paypal via our Donate page on the WSA website.

Cancellation: You may cancel your membership at any time without providing us notice, although we unfortunately cannot refund any dues already paid.

3. Code of Conduct

As a member, you agree to conduct yourself respectfully and adhere to all rules, including safety regulations during training, sparring, and group events. Disruptive or dangerous behavior may result in disciplinary actions, including suspension or termination of membership.

4. Waiver of Liability

Acknowledgment of Risk

I, the undersigned, understand and acknowledge that participating in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) involves inherent risks of physical injury, including but not limited to cuts, bruises, broken bones, concussions, or more serious injury, even with proper protective equipment. I voluntarily assume full responsibility for any risks of injury, property damage, or death that may result from my participation in HEMA activities with the Whidbey Swordplay Association.

Release of Liability

In consideration of being allowed to participate in any HEMA-related activities, I hereby release, waive, discharge, and hold harmless the Whidbey Swordplay Association, its instructors, officers, members, and affiliates from any and all liability, claims, demands, or causes of action that may arise from my participation in the Whidbey Swordplay Association’s HEMA events, training sessions, or sparring activities, whether caused by negligence or otherwise.

Indemnification

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Whidbey Swordplay Association and its representatives from any costs or damages arising from injury, damage, or claims that result from my actions or participation in group activities. I further agree to assume responsibility for my personal safety and that of others, ensuring my equipment is maintained and in safe condition at all times.

5. Medical Declaration

I declare that I am in good physical health and capable of participating in physically demanding activities, including martial arts. I understand it is my responsibility to inform the Whidbey Swordplay Association in writing of any pre-existing conditions or injuries that may affect my ability to participate safely.

6. Equipment and Safety

I acknowledge that I am responsible for using the proper protective gear and maintaining it in good condition. Before sparring or participating in drills, I will undergo an equipment safety check as outlined in the group’s sparring policy. I understand that failure to comply with safety regulations may result in my temporary or permanent exclusion from activities.

7. Media Release (Optional)

I grant permission to the Whidbey Swordplay Association to use photographs, videos, or other recordings of me taken during HEMA activities for promotional purposes, including social media and the group’s website. I understand that I will not receive compensation for such use.

8. Signature