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Discovered! Hidden treasures of the Potsdam Sentinel in the gymnasium
Dr. Stephan Eickelmann reveals historical fighting techniques at the University of Potsdam, where the Sentinel Potsdam has been active since 2017.
Discovered! Hidden treasures of the Potsdam Sentinel in the gymnasium
On July 1, 2025, Dr. Stephan Eickelmann, coach of the club Sentinel Potsdam, an adventurous cupboard door in the gymnasium of the Am Neuen Palais campus of the University of Potsdam. Instead of the usual sports equipment, he discovered a variety of helmets, shields and swords. This sight is not uncommon, but is part of an innovative university sports course that teaches historical martial arts.
The Schildwache Potsdam association, founded in 2017 as a result of a cooperation between the Berlin Knights' Guild and the university sports department at the University of Potsdam, focuses on the reconstruction of historical fighting techniques. This is done in particular based on the Bolognese tradition of the 16th century, for which Dr. Eickelmann and co-founder Martin Höppner show passion and dedication. Around 20 participants have enrolled in the “(side)sword and sidearm” course, where they learn the art of fencing.
Insights into historical techniques
The course under the guidance of Dr. Eickelmann integrates academic knowledge because he also works as an academic employee at the university. He teaches the importance of historical accuracy in martial arts. During the training sessions, participants use training weapons that are more similar to real swords than you might think. These come with blunt blades and rubber tips to ensure safety.
For those more advanced in the course, there is the opportunity to prepare for tournaments while wearing protective clothing. One of the interesting techniques he introduces to participants is the use of the buckler - a historical sign that was once considered dangerous in London and was therefore banned. Eickelmann and his students differentiate between the techniques of historical sword fighting and those of modern sport fencing.
Emphasize cultural diversity
A significant feature of the Sentinel Potsdam is the integration of the rainbow flag into its logo. This represents a clear commitment to diversity within the group. With the aim of applying historical martial arts in both a civilian context and sporting environments, the club combines traditional knowledge with modern sporting standards.
Historical martial arts have experienced a significant increase in popularity since the 1980s. This is also reflected in the increasing number of participants. The course finally concludes with a special closing ritual in which the students bow and make a ceremonial, circular movement with their sword.
The Schildwache Potsdam not only offers a platform for learning historical techniques, but also promotes community and exchange among the participants. Historical fencing is experienced here as a living discipline that builds bridges between eras over the centuries.