New "ISZU Dojo"

Shidokan Instructors James Albarran, Pat Guiliano and Richard Trammell traveled to Japan to test at Shidokan's new "ISZU Dojo". Accompanied by Shihan Eddie Yoshimura, the three Shidokan Sempais tested under the Shidokan Grand Master, Kancho Yoshiji Soeno. The U.S. Shidokan is unique in that it is mandatory that all members of the Chicago Honbu are tested exclusively by Kancho Soeno. This policy insures that all Shodan candidates and above meet and train with the Shidokan founder. We continue to adhere to this format and our students have benefited tremendously from this relationship.

As usual, it was a great learning experience. The ISZU Dojo is a beautiful memorial to Kancho Soeno's Sempai and great friend, Kajiwara Sensei. The first part of the exam was primarily a review of Shidokan Kihon and Kata. Kancho stressed that while Shidokan is well known for its grueling competition, the average student is interested in learning as much as possible, i.e., Kihon, Kata, Kumite, History, Theory, and the future of Shidokan. Therefore, as Shidokan Instructors, we are responsible for teaching each student as much material as possible, and not limiting our students to personal likes or dislikes.

The surrounding area provided the perfect back round for the second half of the exam which consisted of "Outdoor Training". Kancho Soeno proceeded to demonstrate Samurai Sword drills, i.e., a form of "Shidokan Iiado". Kancho then finished with "KJ" development and training. Kancho stressed that as the body grows older, the unification of Body/Mind/Spirit is of paramount importance. Your body will subsequently be reenergized through the development of KI.

Results:
James Albarran/Chicago Honbu and Pat Guilian/New Jersey were both promoted to the rank of Yodan (4^th Dan). Richard Trammell/Atlanta was awarded the rank of Sandan (3^rd Dan). But the experience was like the commercial states...."Priceless"