It’s been a very busy month with the All Alberta Karate Invitational Tournament on November 26^th as well as the Kumite Clinics with Sensei Masayoshi Nishiuchi, Sensei Hiroto Shinohara and Sensei Hideyoshi Kagawa. Congratulations and well done to everyone who participated in the tournament!  As well, a huge thank you to everyone who volunteered to help with the tournament.  There was a lot of planning that went into it before the 26^th and as well work at the tournament itself – organizing athletes, officiating and set up and take down are a few of the more noticeable tasks.  But there is so much more that goes on behind the scenes. There is no way the tournament – with more than 200 entries – would have worked out as well as it did without your commitment and contributions.  Thank you again to all. 

The instruction that Nishiuchi Sensei, Shinowara Sensei and Kagawa Sensei provided has had a very strong impact on our training.  During the tournament, they took the time to observe our athletes in action and tailor their kumite clinic to meet our needs.  As a result, we have been incorporating a new warmup as well as multiple new drills into our kumite training.  The routines are not easy – not only have they reminded us all of some key requirements for kumite: strong legs, good posture and good tanden – but also, they have allowed us to add additional smart techniques to our kumite tool kits.  A key message that their training techniques highlighted: there are no shortcuts – everything is founded upon solid basics and excellent fitness. 

Having guest instructors also reminded us once more of dojo etiquette and discipline.  These Senseis enjoyed working with us as we were responsive and focused on learning.  We have to remember to bring that same attitude to every instructor we work with, whether it is another member of our dojo, me, or guest instructors. 

“The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Work is the key to success, and hard work can help you accomplish anything.” –  Vince Lombardi

Announcements

• Class Cancellations:   No classes on Friday, December 16 due to school use.
• The last day of class before the Christmas/Holiday break is Tuesday, December 20. Classes will resume on January 10, 2017.  (Note: Class start date has been moved to the 10th)

Happy holidays to everyone!

Gary Sabean

Head Instructor