GALLERY — NEW YORK, DECEMBER 2008
At the end of 2008 Fall Session, I tested some of my young students, some of which received promotions or awards.
Test — First Part
The first part of the test was about the basic elements of Reigi Sahō (etiquette): Arriving at the Dōjō, informal standing rei (bow), or entering the Dōjō, formal sitting rei.
The testing included several specific exercises, like Nawatobi (rope jumping), which is an important drill for both children and adults.
The test also included Push Ups, Body Alignment Drills and Walking Drills. All students were also asked several general questions about Shinjinbukan (including the name of our Founder & Head Instructor), about Okinawa Karate Dō, our style of and our Shōrin Ryū lineage.
Test — Waza (Technique)
A major section of the test was focused on Waza (Technique) 技 (わざ), which included several drills focussing on Shiboru and the three Tsuki positions (tsuki line).
Other technical drills included Tsuki Kata with Koshi#1 (From Shiko Dachi).
Next, the students tested on Mae Geri from Neko Ashi, Zenkutsu Dachi Stance/ movement, and Tachikata Yoko Ni (changing between stances using lateral motion).
Test — Kihon Kumite
The final section of the test was focused on Kihon Kumite (basic sparring). These were very basic combinations, including one minute of Jiyū Kumite (free-style sparring).
Promotions and Awards
On December 5th, 2008, I had a small ceremony at my Dōjō to promote three young students to 9th Kyū: Adrian Korogodsky, Renata Korogodsky, Qiufei Smart. Also, the following students received Kantōshō Awards (Fighting Spirit Award): Vassily Lowenfells, Sofia Rusanoff, Joni Warren and Masaaki Satō.
2008 Portrait
The children were very proud with their new belts and certificates. We also took our 2008 Dōjō portrait, but it was difficult for the children to stay still for the picture.
Christmas Card
After taking the Dōjō protrait, my students helped me write a christmas card for my teacher in Okinawa. The children were very excited about writing their names in Japanese (Katakana) and decorating the Christmas Card with their drawings: Christmas Tree, hearts, starts, etc.
Onaga Sensei was very happy to receive our Christmas Card!!
Christmas & New Year's Party
In addition to the general martial arts etiquette, the Shinjinbukan School carries an ancient tradition of Okinawan martial arts and culture. There are a lot of traditions associated to Okinawan Karate. These traditions, manners and ettiquette as a whole are referred as reigi sahō. These traditions are evident during training and other social occasions, such as a formal toast. Our Christmas party started with a formal toast with apple juice for the kids. Normally adults drink awamori (Okinawan Sake)
Afterwards, we watched a few videos clips about Shinjinbukan, which are currently available on the web.
Introduction to Sōji
At the end of the party, my students were introduced to sōji,which means "to clean or sweep". In all traditional Martial Art schools students are expected to clean the Dōjō after training. Sōji instills a sense of pride among students at the Shinjinbukan School.
A Few Gifts
At the end of the party, I received a few gift from the kids.
Arigatō Gozaimashita!!! (Thank you very much!!)
