We felt this month we would recognize a fighter who has not only been in the community for a long time but also who as of recently represented the USA team captain at the 2023 IMCF International Medieval Combat Federation in Spain. We want to send a big congrats to Cat Brooks! And we are happy to share that the USA has brought home lots of medals from this year’s event, including two Golds in Men’s 5v5 and 16v16’s which Cat lead.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN TRAINING FOR ARMORED COMBAT?
I have been fighting in armor since I was 11. I turned 35 in March, so 24 years…I am getting old, LOL.
DO YOU HAVE ANY BACKGROUND EXPERIENCE IN MARTIAL ARTS OR OTHER SPORTS?
I played some football and did some stripmall karate but most of my effort has gone into this.
HOW DID YOU LEARN ABOUT ARMORED COMBAT AND WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO JOIN?
I was born into the SCA so my first fighting event was at 8 days old.
DO YOU REMEMBER HOW YOU FELT IN YOUR FIRST FIGHT? CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE EXPERIENCE?
My first real steel fight was in Quebec in 2013. I was lost on what to do and felt as though I was always behind the 8 ball. Just a hair too slow reacting to everything.
WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED WEAPON? DO YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR FAVORITE?
These days I run the reliable sword and shield due to its versatility and ability to maul.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE SOME POSITIVE ASPECTS THAT COME FROM THE SPORT?
I really love the communities that build from this sport, giving so many people their need for a tribe. Also, the other great aspect is the fitness portion by helping people live happier fuller lives.
WHAT IS YOUR FIGHTING STYLE – IF YOU HAVE ONE?
I fight a grapple-heavy forward style where I use my size and strength to force opportunities to appear.
DO YOU THINK FIGHTING CHANGES WHO YOU ARE AS A PERSON? HOW HAS IT AFFECTED YOU PERSONALLY?
I have – from fighting I’ve become a kinder, softer person from it. Leading people through COVID and the various blow-ups in the sport really has changed my perspective on things.
WHAT WOULD YOUR ADVICE BE FOR NEW PEOPLE INTERESTED IN THE SPORT?
Remember, we do this for fun. You have to find the joy in it if you want sustainability.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK FORWARD TO FOR THE FUTURE OF ARMORED COMBAT SPORTS?
I am really hopeful for the future seeing that the USA is more unified than it ever has been in the steel fighting community and the growth we have seen has been amazing.
ANY FINAL WORDS YOU WANTED TO MENTION?
Doesn’t matter if you’re in Spain or Prague, USA is number 1.
One country one team.
