Could have as many as five newbies next gather

[mOss]

I've had a lot of former and current students (and friend) expressing interest...

I don't know how many will actually go buuuuut... should get a couple at least.

Also getting really good preliminary interest in my 3 touch fundraiser... we'll see how that goes.  If I was going to make a rope "ring" for this... as in... the fighters need to stay in the ring... How big should said ring be?

[Thomas]

Hooray for new newbies. Hopefully I'll get to meet more than a few.
In regards to ring-size for your fund-raiser: The average martial arts tournament has a 20' x 20' to 30' x 30' diameter ring.  You're looking at a 55' to 75' rope. Between there should leave you some slack, which is always preferred.
I don't know what materials you have available, but you could always draw a chalk circle on pavement and avoid the need for rope all together.
You mentioned students, so I imagine you have access/affiliation to a school: You could always use their gym, or find a set of wrestling mats.
Hope that helps, and I'm interested to hear how your fundraiser fairs.

(PS: All numbers are in measurements of Feet.)

[mOss]

Why must people bail?

*sighs*

belay that last... will probably have zero newbs this gather.  *sighs* 

[Stephen_S]

As far as sword rings go, I do a lot of recreational sword fighting with a local non-profit here in Charlotte. The permanent (and portable) "rings" we use are 20' by 20' squares. The portable fields are made of wood and rope, and aren't too difficult to construct, set-up, or break down. If you want, Moss, I can get the designs from our resident crafty-construction guru. I'd try and explain it myself, but I'd likely end up sounding like a straight trying to explain a Trek convention (curse my in-progress arts degree; I know NOTHING of construction).

[G. Kinney]

We will for sure have at least 2 brand new players. Possibly two others joining which would make it 4.