[a Gronkle is let out into the training ring]
Gobber: Today is about survival. If you get blasted, you're dead. Quick! What's the first thing you're going to need?
Hiccup: A doctor?
Fishlegs: Plus five speed?
Astrid: A shield!
Gobber: Shield! Go!
[the teens scramble around to grab shields]
Gobber: Your most important piece of equipment is your shield! If you must make a choice between a sword or a shield, take the shield!