How do I join the Order of the Valkyrie?
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Order of the Valkyrie, please contact your local Flight or reach out to our national headquarters through our contact page and one of our Guides will get back to you as soon as possible. Once you have been connected with one of our Guides, you will have the opportunity to ask any remaining questions you may have, and learn more about the application process.
Is the Order of the Valkyrie right for me?
The Order of the Valkyrie is not for everyone. We are determined to uphold the highest standards of conduct and safety, as well as building trust and confidence between members. If you have what it takes, if you are determined to become the very best version of yourself you can be while having fun and enjoying real adventures, then you should consider applying. If you feel you have limitations that may be holding you back, don’t hesitate to contact us and discuss your concerns or needs. Applicants often find that they have far more to offer than they realize. You don’t have to be a sword-wielding, trail-blazing, high-seas riding, expedition leader to secure a place among a Flight of Valkyries and enjoy the benefits of participation. We are happy to welcome stay-at-home moms, professionals with little free time, and others from various walks of life. There is even a place for partners and children within the Valkyrie movement, so don’t hesitate to get in touch and ask questions. With the help of a Valkyrie Guide, you may just surprise yourself and the world. However, it is important to note that the Order of the Valkyrie requires a sincere personal commitment. Only those who invest themselves in their membership will reap its greatest rewards.
Is there a waiting list for membership?
In order to ensure that each Valkyrie gets the most out of her experience, we strive to assign one Guide to every Flight (9-12 members). When a Flight grows larger than twelve members, we are happy to train the best and brightest to become Guides themselves to support the formation of new Flights with the help and support of the larger organization. However, there are instances when existing Flights are full and all our Guides are engaged. In those circumstances, new applicants will be included on our waiting list where we maintain a first come, first-serve priority list for prospective new members.
Every woman who wants to join the Order of the Valkyrie passes through the same basic stages of membership beginning as a Prospect and continuing on as a Trainee before being tested on basic membership proficiencies, etiquette, and safety when practicing with real steel weapons.
New member intakes occur periodically throughout the year. If you are interested in learning more or being put in contact with a guide, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
What happens after I submit my application?
First, you will be contacted by one of our Guides to have a casual conversation where you can ask any additional questions and discuss your goals of membership. Your Guide will also provide you more information about how to prepare for your training and other requirements of membership. After this initial consultation, your application will be reviewed by other Valkyries who will work to pair you with the right group of women to ensure you get the most out of your experience.
What happens next after my application is accepted?
If your application is accepted, you will be notified about the next “intake” period where you and other applicants will meet for a basic introductory session. There you will be given an in-depth introduction to the organization and provided other materials to help prepare you for your training experience. If you have any insecurities or concerns, that will be the time to discuss them with your Guide. During this period your Guide will also assist you in preparing a basic nutrition and fitness program before you begin your introduction to Viking Age weapons and combat techniques. The process is fun but serious as member safety always takes priority.
What happens if my application isn’t accepted?
Because safety is of paramount importance, the primary reason applications are rejected is because some applicants display a lack of commitment or self-discipline, which can put them and other members at greater risk of injury. But not to worry. Like all skills, self-discipline is something you have to learn, and we will happily work with you to develop those skills so that you can reapply. If your application is not accepted, don’t worry. We will provide you an explanation about why your application was rejected and how you can improve your chances of acceptance on the next try.
How much does it cost?
Nothing worth having, including membership in the Order of the Valkyrie, is free. In addition to weapons, safety equipment, awards and achievements, the organization incurs costs to provide professional upkeep and trainings. Therefore, the Order of the Valkyrie requires a base level of annual dues which can be paid bi-annually or annually. (Dues paid annually receive a discount.)
Some Flights may also require an additional fee to cover the costs of renting a meeting place, providing refreshments, and other materials necessary for managing the Flight. Flights will often take a collection at each regular meeting where members are encouraged to offer a minimum financial contribution. In some instances, members may volunteer time to help the Flight instead of money. Whatever the method of contribution, a Valkyrie recognizes the importance of providing support for her Flight and for the movement as a whole. Travel expenses, special camps, and other expeditions may be charged individually depending on the resources available to the Flight.
While membership in the Order of the Valkyrie is not free, it is intended to be affordable to all who want to join with others to forge the best version of themselves. If you have the commitment but not the funds required to become a Valkyrie, speak to one of our Guides privately so that she may advise you about available grants and other support resources.