(Very!) generally speaking f2/f7 are the weakest points of attack, ie. they only have one defender; the king. Ok, in the 1200-1500 bracket, players are going to attack here probably from the word go but theres nothing to fear really. You should be able to adequately defend the f2/f7 point once you dont neglect matters. If you know even a few opening moves you should be able to avoid any quick losses involing being mated or forked on the f2/f7 squares.
On this issue in more advanced terms, take for example a Najdorf positing where black has played ...d6 and ...e5. Provided a black bishop cannot go to e6 white will probably best take advantage of the a2-g8 diagonal and put pressure on f7. This can be followed by Qh5 etc. In this sense you need to be able to defend and play a good middlegame.
To sum up, quick attacks on f2/f7 can be lethal but shouldnt happen to you if your opening repitoire is sound. f2/f7 can be weak points in advanced middlegames but if your on the wrong end of the stick, defend the weak point well and seek counter chances, ie. look for favourable imbalances.
I am just getting back into chess after about a 30 year layoff. Have only played a few games, but I am enjoying it and I'm happy to be playing again.
Of the few games I've played, plus the many I have looked over, it seems that quite a few people enjoy attacking either the f2 or f7 pawns with their king bishop, supported by the queen knight. I have noticed this particularly with players rated between 1200-1500.
Is the thought that by attacking that particular square that you are disrupting your opponents plan to castle on the king side?
Believe me, I am no opening expert. About the only thing I know is the Ruy Lopez up to move 4 or 5, and that is my usual opening while playing white.
What might be some strategies, tactics, or plans to disrupt my opponent from attacking and capturing the f pawn early in the game?