USMAHOF Grandmasters Council

Grandmaster’s Council 2010

One of the highlights of the National Training Camp is the convening of the Grandmaster’s Council on Friday evening. Shihans, Sokes, and Grandmasters from various styles come together on this special night to provide an opportunity for instructors to present themselves for advancement.

Many instructors have seen their own mentors pass on or have moved away, making it difficult to advance in their own style. The Grandmaster’s Council presents a unique forum for these instructors to test before a panel of their peers and seek advancement in their style or system. This forum also allows instructors to recognize their students for special achievements or awards and honor their efforts and training before a national audience.

The Grandmaster’s Council also provides an opportunity for martial arts students, instructors, and the general public to be treated to a special demonstration of open hand and weapons techniques as we celebrate the history of the martial arts. It is a rare privilege to have so many talented martial artists together in one place, and an honor to watch as they demonstrate their art in a public forum.

Pre-register NOW to reserve your spot for the 2010 National Training Camp.

Testing Criteria

Black belt candidates MUST make application at least 90 days in advance of the Grandmaster’s Council to be considered for rank advancement testing. Candidates for testing must provide the following with their application:

• Proof of current rank (Documentation) & training history (Brief bio)

• Technique, kata & self-defense demonstration on Video/DVD

DVD will be reviewed by one or more members of the Testing Panel, and will contact the applicant in advance of testing to advise if the application to test has been approved. If any deficiencies are identified, these will also be pointed out and explained so they can be corrected prior to testing.

Approved Black belt advancement candidates MUST provide their own Uke for testing (minimum of 4), as the Grandmaster’s Council not only examines the black belt instructor, but also the students under the instructor’s tutelage. If black belt is not currently teaching in a school, Ukes are still required, but they will not be evaluated.

Private training in advance of testing is available for an additional fee.

All approved candidates for testing, along with his/her Ukes, will be required to attend the camp as paid participants.