ABOUT US

Adelaide Order Of Knights — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 13:33:29 GMT

Established in early 2006, the Adelaide Order of Knights (AOK) are a band of elite warriors who train in and practice Mixed Martial Arts, Gladiatorial Combat, Warfare, Archery and Hunting. They also function as an historical society and brotherhood, which includes disciplined scholars and artisans within their ranks. The AOK is one of many organizations worldwide who are dedicated to the preservation and reestablishment of traditional Western/Historical European Martial Arts (WEMA or HEMA), However, an Eastern influence is still very much evident, as many of them also have various levels of Eastern style training. They are consequently not purists, and don’t believe in claiming as such, as their interests lay in any art of war which may enhance their ability as fighters only. The AOK do not associate themselves with any paramilitary, religious and separatist ideology or groups. As a wholly independent organisation, their allegiances lay solely with the welfare of their community. Each Knight swears oath to the ancient Code of Chivalry, which stresses the concepts of honour, duty and service to all people. The AOK is a fraternal chivalric Order, and does not practice hierarchical structure. A Knight is equal to their peers, each with a share and right to the saying of the Order’s direction. The founding members come from distinguished and ancient European families, who carry with them long histories and a tradition of warfare and service. In their veins runs the blood of warriors who fought in some of the greatest battles ever fought on British soil, such as Hastings and Bannockburn. The Knights share an immense pride in their ancestry, and a passion for the past. Any man or woman who is equally expressionate about their culture or history (be they from any corner of the globe) is welcomed for consideration, as the AOK do not believe in being exclusive of any creed, gender or colour. The skills of the Knights are divided into the traditional activities of Warfare, Tournament, and the Hunt. Disciplines include the Bow, Swords, Spear, Shields, Axe, Knife and Hand to Hand. It is written in history that traditionally in times of peace, the warriors became hunters, scholars, leaders or athletes. The Order recognises this role, and continues its culture, as it does in times of war, vow to rise in defence of their motherlands from any tyrant or invader. The Adelaide Order of Knights ask that you consider your mental and physical condition before expressing interest in undertaking the path to knighthood, as reasonable health is essential for most of the activities you will participate in. All members must undertake elements of combat training, which may result in injury or wounding. Whilst this is a rare occurrence, each person must understand that they undertake these initiations at their own risk and of their own accord, as no liability will be held against another member should such an incident arise. Likewise, the AOK adheres to high standards and codes of conduct, that all must be willing to abide by. Behaviour that is deliberately harmful to others or potentially disreputable to the brotherhood will not be tolerated, as it is viewed upon as a breach of the Chivalric code. It is a requirement therefore that the path to Knighthood is achieved through not only courage but wisdom. Study is an essential part of the brotherhoods curriculum, be that in science, arts, philosophy and history. A knight is expected to show not only skill and bravery on the battlefield or in the arena, but wisdom and maturity in his thoughts and words. Regular training sessions and internal tournaments in Gladiatorial style combat and Archery are held at specified locations across metropolitan Adelaide and in the hills. Equipment, such as weapons, armour/protection and costume etc must be purchased at the expense of the individual. The AOK will not guarantee to provide these items, but most members will allow you to use their equipment in the beginning. After a certain period of time, it is however expected that you have invested in your own gear.

RECRUITMENT AND INITIATION

Adelaide Order Of Knights — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:48:53 GMT

It is a requirement that each potential member have an equally expressed interest and passion for martial arts and history as a foremost quality, in order to be considered worthy of carrying the AOK banner. This is not only important for the preservation of the future of the brotherhood, but because the path will require an individual to invest significant time and money, and it is not our wish to waste either for ourselves or the potential member. A person deemed fit for training and membership is referred to as a Squire, until they have fulfilled the criteria listed below. A knight is judged by his character, not his skill, as that is what we have training for. All members, regardless of experience or level of ability are constantly learning, and all are equal in rights and opinion. LEVEL 1: (Warrior or Archer) • Potential Squires must be recommended by a current member(s). After a Unanimous decision only, an invitation is then extended. • The Squire must pass through a probationary period, covering at least 10 training sessions per discipline(s). Each Squire is also judged on their character, intelligence and dedication. • If successful, the Squire will be promoted to rank of Archer and/or Warrior through the swearing of the Oath to the Order. An initiation ceremony can then be held where rank, title and heraldry are bestowed upon the Squire. LEVEL 2: (Knight) • A potential Knight is judged by fellow Knights of the Order, to have achieved a high level of skill in both Martial Arts and Archery disciplines. The Warrior/Archer must also show great wisdom in their character, and be proven to uphold the values of the Order. • A minimum requirement of competing in 5 tournaments, both in Gladiatorial and Bow, must be reached. Blood rites MUST be satisfied before an official decision is made. • Upon initiation into Knighthood, an Oath to the ancient code of Chivalry is sworn.

CODE OF CHIVALRY

Adelaide Order Of Knights — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:41:11 GMT

I) Duty to Country ~ Defend your motherlands with your life in times of disaster or tragedy. Represent your people and nation with loyalty, honour and pride. II) Duty to God ~ Champion the cause of justice and liberty, protect the innocent and have respect for nature and the universe. III) Duty to Women ~ Serve your lady, and after her all ladies with graciousness and gentleness. Never raise one’s hand or weapon in anger to women, or children.

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ABOUT US

RECRUITMENT AND INITIATION

CODE OF CHIVALRY