How Virtues Changed Sword Camp into Knight Camp

When we started our youth program, we called it “Sword Camp.” We taught European swordplay techniques to children, focusing on the physical skills of historical martial arts. It was fun, it was active, and kids loved learning to swing a sword.

But around 2006, something shifted. Our instructors began integrating knightly virtues into daily instruction, and the transformation was remarkable.

The Ten Knightly Virtues

We now explicitly teach ten knightly virtues that formed the moral foundation of medieval knighthood:

• Courage - Facing fears and challenges with bravery
• Justice - Treating others fairly and standing up for what’s right
• Mercy - Showing compassion, especially to those who are vulnerable
• Generosity - Giving freely of your time, skills, and resources
• Faith - Staying true to your beliefs and commitments
• Nobility - Acting with dignity and grace
• Hope - Maintaining optimism even in difficult times
• Charity - Putting others’ needs alongside your own
• Humility - Recognizing that strength comes with responsibility
• Integrity - Matching your actions to your words

These aren’t just historical curiosities - they’re practical guides for how to live well.

The Chain of Virtue

Students now share examples of times they’ve seen virtues at work in their daily lives. Each day, we recognize the most virtuous student with a “Chain of Virtue” award, celebrating character alongside martial achievement.

This simple practice changes the dynamic entirely.

Transformation in Action

Children who previously avoided challenges now challenge themselves to be courageous. Kids who competed with one another to be the biggest disruption in class now compete in acts of charity to see who can be the best helper. Students who were already the best fighters now strive to help others become their best.

I remember a 13-year-old named William who arrived disconnected and resistant. He didn’t want to be there, didn’t want to participate, didn’t want to engage. But something about the virtue of Charity connected with him. By the end of the week, he had become open, caring, and strong - a leader among his peers.

Why Virtues Matter

Virtues provide an internal compass in a world that often feels turbulent. They give children - and adults - a framework for making decisions, treating others well, and becoming the people they want to be.

That’s why we’re no longer Sword Camp. We’re Knight Camp. The swords are still here, but now they’re in service of something greater: building character through the chivalric tradition.