THE BEST EVENT I'VE EVER HAD
 

   In this blog I will present an idea which I have utilized on more than one occasion very successfully. First, lets look at the reasons behind competition; To push one's limits in the arena of battle. Some enjoy the comradely. Others overcome shyness and prove their confidence in combat. Some enjoy the performance of an ancient art form.  Not one of the competitors enjoy losing. Those who lose have a dwindling sense of self worth and sometimes drop out all together. Depriving instructors of revenue and not receiving the many "artful" benefits of Martial Arts training. Tournaments take at least one day, sometimes more.  They are expensive and stressful to hold. Many people have the feelings hurt in the losing process and need immediate attention and encouragement from Sensei, and still many quit. Yes a few (winners) are overjoyed and have their confidence improve, gain self worth, as a result of competition. This comes of course at the expense of the losers.

Since the Martial Arts of Karate are touted to build confidence, improve self worth, strengthen the body, improve physical fitness, why not have an event that does just that (build confidence, improve self worth, strengthen the body, improve physical fitness) for ALL PARTICIPANTS. It's not expensive to hold, it only takes about 1 1/2 hours to conduct, everyone performs in the following  10 divisions:

1. Kihon (an exhibition of intermediate technical combinations)

2. Kata (traditional formal exercise)

3. Kumite (sparring)

4. Goshin Budo (self defense)

5. Kobudo (weapons)

6. Tameshiwari (breaking)

7. Group Demo

8. Dojo Team Demo

9. Featured Performers

10. Superstar Performance

There are NO JUDGES....Judgment is not needed.. There are "Guest Observers".......participation and exhibiting the highest form of precise performance are encouraged.

EVERYONE WINS! EVERYONE IS REWARDED. Revenue is generating by charging a participation/spectator fee. This fees covers the purchase of awards, hall rental, you a profit. Fees range for the amount of participation the attendee wants. A student who performs individually could be charged a higher fee or could be allowed to perform as a reward for special contributions given to your dojo or community.

I could go on and on. This event is one of the best events I have ever conducted. It is profitable, fun, and has encouraged ALL OF MY STUDENTS in the past. This can also be a big hit as a demonstration of authentic Japanese/Okinawan Martial Arts. Everyone has a chance to participate in everything, but it only takes about 1 1/2 hours with over 100 students participating.

Don't you want to encourage your students? Isn't it your job to enhance your students confidence/concentration? Would you rather encourage or console? After EVERY EVENT LIKE THIS the first question has always been; "When it the next one?"

I will be teaching a seminar on how to conduct an event like this in the near future......those interested may contact me via e-mail: www.tkasupport@hotmail.com

Kaicho