With the help and knowledge of our students and their families I m proud to present our first welcome guide. I hope our Kick Start To success Guide becomes a helpful tool for all of us. Thank you to everyone who took part in the development of this guide from suggestions to proof reading with special Thanks to Elise Dale for the professional layout, Leo Elovitz for the professional graphics and my wife Darlene for her patience and final proofing! Enjoy Your Path, Brian Last Revised: 4/28/2009 21:08:55 a4/p4
A Note from Sensei Brian: Thank you for joining our Team at South Coast Karate! Our goal is to make your experience beyond outstanding! We ve developed this guide to help answer questions you may have and to also use as a reference guide during your training with us. Most of this information is also available on our website. Log on to southcoastkarate.com to get the latest information on our program and special events. If you have additional questions, please feel free to call me directly @ 805-687-5001. Enjoy your journey. Respectfully, Brian Jordan Table of Contents I. Program Description... 1 II. History or Goju-Ryu Karate... 2 III. Dojo Etiquette & Rules... 3 IV. Frequently Asked Questions... 4 Beginners... 4 Everyone... 5 Community Service, PE Elective...5 Katas... 5 Sparring & Sparring Rules... 6 Advanced Students... 7 Assistant Instructor Program...... 7 Promotions... 8 V. Promotion Requirements & Ranks... 9 Promotion Request Form... 10 VI Parents... 11 VII. Class Locations & Times... 12 VIII. Terminology... 13 IX. Tiny Tigers...14 X. Practice Sheet / Good Deeds...15 XI. Rates..... 16 XII. Registration Form..... 17
SOUTH COAST KARATE home of KID POWER I. The Program My name is Brian Jordan and I am the owner and Chief Instructor of South Coast Karate. My goals are to promote confidence, respect and discipline through positive reinforcement. I South Coast Karate is dedicated to offering affordable martial arts that the entire family can enjoy. Your child will be given an information sheet each week and I request that you take the time to review this information with your child. The rewards from this interaction with your child will have a positive effect on all of us! Safety flyers are passed out every other week dealing with issues such as: What to do when approached by a stranger. Safety tips for skateboarding and biking. School Bus Safety How to Deal with Bullies Tiger Talk Newsletter is our monthly publication. It includes: Student of the Month Educational Games Birthday Announcements Coming Events Healthy Corner Community Events Santa Barbara Holiday Parade (98, 00, 02, 03, 04 Winner: Most Spirited Entry, 05 Best Performance) Children s Fiesta Parade Los Padres National Forest Trails Day and National River Clean-Up Santa Barbara Bike and Tour Fest for Multiple Sclerosis (Best Team T-Shirt Design-2 years) I Madonnari Goleta Valley Lemon Festival (We developed the largest two day Safety Street event in the State.) National Make a Difference Day South Coast Karate has been recognized for outstanding effort and participation in our community by such groups as KEYT s Children First and the Independent, winner of Best Martial Arts Studio 4 years in a row, Santa Barbara Downtown Organization ( Winner of Most Spirited Entry 5 years and Best Performance last year), Los Padres National Forest Service, Santa Barbara Multiple Sclerosis Society, Children's Creative Project, Goleta Chamber of Commerce, National Make a Difference Day and the City of Santa Barbara. 1.
II. A Brief History of Goju-Ryu Karate Chojun Miyagi founded the GOJU system of karate. He was born in Naha City, Okinawa on April 25, 1888. Miyagi Sensei was the successor to Kanryo Higaonna (Higashionna) who was the highest authority on Naha-Te, an Okinawan style of karate. In the late 19th century Higashionna Sensei traveled to China and studied the art of Chinese Boxing known as Shaolin Chuan, one of the hard fist styles and also mastered the White Crane system. Miyagi Sensei, on the other hand, studied not only Shaolin Chuan, but also a soft style called Pa Kua Chang. Having mastered both of the Chinese styles as well as the original Okinawa-Te, he transformed Naha-Te into a system of karate instructions, which he later called GOJU-RYU. What Does Karate Mean? Karate-do means the way of the empty hand. Every part of the patch on your gi (karate uniform) has a special meaning. GO JU RYU SHO BU KAN The circle represents continuous training. The rice leaves represent humility. Goju-ryu means the path of hard and soft. Shobukan is the training hall where you cultivate the way of the warrior. Go = Hard Ju = Soft Ryu = Path Sho = Cultivate Bu = Warrior Kan = Hall 2.
III. Dojo Etiquette When you come to class: 1. Arrive 5 10 minutes early. 2. Bow when entering and leaving the Dojo. This shows respect and is a good time to clear your mind. 3. Sign in at the desk. 4. Neatly place shoes, socks and gear bags in designated areas. 5. Stretch out and practice your karate. 6. Sit, calm your mind and body to prepare for class. 7. Line up for class in order of belt rank: highest rank in front right corner facing front. Dojo Rules Have a positive attitude. Show respect for others and be courteous and polite. Address your teacher as Sensei or Sir/Mame. Listen at all times with your Ears, Eyes and Body. Keep your uniform and appearance neat and clean. No jewelry! It s a simple safety issue! Respect the Facilities! We are guests at our dojos: No loitering. No running in the halls. You are either in the classroom or heading home. No hanging on the railings, furniture or other equipment. 3.
IV. Frequently Asked Questions about Our Program FAQs for Beginning Students: Q: How often should I take class? A: As often as possible! Most beginners in the Program start with 1 class a week and as they progress more classes are desired. Will you be twice as good taking 2 classes a week vs. 1? That one s simple! Q: Do I need a uniform? A: Not at the beginning, but we do encourage it as part of the discipline and commitment! A uniform is required for testing. Q: Should my parents watch my class? A: Highly encouraged, although not necessary. We want our parents involved with the kids as much as possible. At South Coast Karate we believe in families! Q: What is expected of me when I come to class? A: Great attitude and the desire to learn. You will learn about dojo etiquette in more detail. Q: When will I test for promotion? A: When you have enough credits for your next level. There are 4 formal tests per year, in March, June and December usually the 2nd to last week of the session. Promotions are granted in the last week. Q: How will I know about upcoming events? A: 1) Tiger Talk, our monthly newsletter, goes out the beginning of each month and lists Coming Events; 2) our website southcoastkarate.com also lists our Coming Events, and 3) a supplemental flyer is handed out in class prior to each event. Q: Can I do private lessons? A: Yes, all students are eligible and the individual attention truly benefits students! 4.
Q: Can I make up missed classes? A: Yes, you must make up missed classes if you want to receive perfect attendance. You may attend 2 classes in one day or go to another location to make up classes. Q: What is perfect attendance? A: Averaging at least 1 class per week, per session! Students who have attended the required classes per session will receive a Tiger Stamp on the back of their membership card. They may receive a stamp for each of the quarters during the year and it takes 2 stamps to receive one crescent patch, which goes on the left sleeve! (1 crescent patch = 6 months of perfect attendance. 2 crescent patch = 1 year of perfect attendance.) Q: Will I be able to compete in tournaments? A: Yes, we hold an annual tournament in May. Tournament day is a fun time to meet kids from our different dojos and demonstrate what you have learned in class. FAQs for Every Student: Q: Why should I fill out practice sheets / Good deeds? A: Why not! Parents, this is one of the best tools you ll ever get! Take 5 minutes at the end of each day and ask your child what good deeds they did, talk about how that made a difference and initial the bottom! Most of our Student of the Month winners fill out good deed sheets! Remember to pass your sheets in at the check in desk. Q: Can I get community service hours with South Coast Karate? A: Yes, we pride ourselves on our outstanding involvement in our community! Our students have put in thousands of hours of community service to benefit others as well as themselves! We will be happy to help you fill out the paperwork for school! Q: Could Karate training count as my PE elective? A: Yes, schools that know what our program is about accept it as an excellent alternative. We ll even help you fill out the necessary paperwork. Q: What is a Kata? A: Katas, also known as Forms, are a series of pre-arranged defensive and offensive moves, which the students will be introduced to, but the performance of the katas are not needed for promotion until Green Belt. There are 12 traditional katas in the original Goju-Ryu syllabus. 5.
Q: When is Bring A Friend week A: The first week of each month students are invited to bring a friend as their special guest for a FREE class. This is a great way to share some fun with your friends! Q: How do we approach sparring? A: Sparring is gradually introduced to the students beginning with basic punches, kicks and blocks. Safety is our #1 concern! If it s not fun and safe, there is no progress. Sparring gear is required for those who participate at full speed. Students must adhere to the strictest rules based on their level of sparring. Sparring is not required for promotion until Green Belt. Although the head is not a target at their first test for Green Belt, full cage headgear is required to prepare them for the next level of sparring. Sparring Rules 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. No contact is permitted to the head, face, neck or groin. Headgear, mouthpieces and padded kicking boots are required by all participants. Groin cups are required for male participants. No running. No excessive force of any kind. No profanity. No reckless or wild techniques. Always maintain control and show good sportsmanship. Always follow the most restrictive rules imposed by the instructor. It is the student s responsibility to supply their own safety equipment and wear it properly. Sparring Gear Athletic Cup Mouthpiece Shin pads Headgear Boots Gloves NO PADS, NO CONTACT! 6.
FAQs for more Advanced Students: Q: When can I become an Assistant Instructor? A: When you re ready! Generally Purple Belt and age 9 years or older, but this is not a requirement as it is based on individual evaluations. Enrollment in our AIP program is limited! Ask how you can get enrolled. Q: When can I participate in the Leadership Program? A: Black belt! Currently this is reserved for advanced students who have attained their Black belt. Assistant Instructor Program Summer 2009 Our Assistant Instructor Program, offered each summer, builds skills and leadership. Limited enrollment. Priority given to the students who show the most commitment! Intense demanding course both physically and mentally. Assistant Instructor Notebooks provide a basic guideline on what to teach each class. Instructors keep notes and receive assignments, which will be reviewed each weekend. Mandatory items: Full uniform (clean & neat, all classes) Assistant Instructor Manual (all classes) Pencil or pens Rehearse lesson plans before class. Recommended items: Water bottles Energy snacks Students in the program are to be dropped off and picked up at designated times and locations. (schedule is provided). Assistant Instructors should wear full uniform (white or black ok.) 7.
Promotion FAQs Q: What is required to test for promotion? A: Credits! Just like college, you earn credits. One credit is earned for each group class and 1.5 for each private lesson you take. All South Coast Karate Events = 1 credit. A request for promotion form must also be filled out and approved. Q: Do I need a uniform to test? A: Yes, a uniform is required for testing. Q: When will I test for promotion? A: When you have enough credits for your next level. There are 4 formal tests per year: March, June, August and December. Tests are usually the 2nd to last week of the session followed the last week by promotions. Q: Could I receive a 4th stripe on my belt? A: Sometimes. It represents a half step meaning you re very close to the next color belt and that belt is just waiting for you to have that outstanding day! Q: Is it possible to be promoted any day? A: Yes! You can be promoted any day for setting a good example or for other outstanding actions! Q: Do you ever receive more than 1 stripe at promotions? A: Yes! Although it is not common you can receive a double promotion or more! Q: Will I know if I passed the test that day? A: No, formal promotions are the following week, you will be notified before promotion class if you were not advanced, so there are no surprises. 8.
V. Promotion and Testing Requirements Students must have the minimum amount of credits needed to be eligible for testing to the next Belt Rank. Full uniforms are required at all tests. BELT RANK CREDITS SKILLS White 1st. 8 nd White 2. 10 White 3rd. 10 Yellow 1st. 10 Knowledge of basic techniques and introduction to history. Yellow 2nd. 10 10 push-ups 10 sit-ups Yellow 3. 10 Orange 1st. 20 Knowledge of basic striking techniques. Orange 2nd. 20 15 push-ups 15 sit-ups Orange 3. 20 Purple 1st. 20 Solid knowledge of intermediate blocks, punches, strikes, kicks. nd Purple 2. 20 20 push-ups 20 sit-ups Purple 3rd. 20 Green 1st. 20 Moving basics. Self-defense techniques, continuous sparring! nd Green 2. 20 Solid performance of Kata s Geki sai di ichi, Geki sai di ni & Saifa Green 3rd. 20 25 push-ups 25 sit-ups Brown 1st. 40 Katas Seiyunchin & Sanchin (adults) 30 push-ups 30 sit-ups Brown 2nd. 40 Introduced to Kata Tensho Brown 3. 40 Introduced to Kata Sepai rd rd rd Knowledge of bully pushovers and basic dojo etiquette. At this point students are invited to prepare for their Black Belt test and sign a mandatory training agreement, committing to a minimum standard of excellence over the course of the next year, which requires written documentation due each month. Black 1st. 40 Katas including Sanchin & Tensho 40 push-ups 40 sit-ups This is a promotion to Shodan-ho, which is probational for 1 year, during this year the written documentation is not required but the minimum standard of excellence must continue for the full year. Upon completion of the full year the student is invited to a special ceremony where they receive their promotion certificate to Shodan and new Black belt embroidered with their name and style. 9.
PROMOTION REQUEST FORM Dear Family: As you are aware, the physical development of our students is only a small part of what South Coast Karate offers at our school. In addition to physical skills, we place a heavy emphasis on the development of the Three C s : Concentration, Confidence, and Character. We teach that these skills must be displayed at the dojo (training hall), at home and at school. With this in mind, we respectfully request that you complete the following so we may monitor our students progress towards these important life skills. Please return this form prior to test day! Student: For the Rank of: 1. My child has been behaving in a respectful manner and is cooperating at home. (Circle one.) AGREE DISAGREE Comments: Parent s signature Date We expect that your child is succeeding in these areas but if s/he is not, we need to know about it right away! Feel free to contact us if you have any thoughts about your child s progress that fall beyond the scope of this form. Student s name: Truly tries to Make A Difference everyday! This is the highest compliment a student can earn! Parent Teacher School Teacher: 2. This student is respectful to teachers and classmates, is doing satisfactory work academically, and is receiving passing grades. (Circle one.) AGREE DISAGREE Comments: Teacher s signature School Date Complimentary Presentation For Your Classroom! TEACHERS: A presentation is available to you and your students completely FREE OF CHARGE, compliments of South Coast Karate! Lasting between 15 and 30 minutes, the presentation can focus on one of the following 3 important topics: 1.) Understanding Rules & Respect; 2.) Peaceful Conflict Resolution (BULLYPROOF!), or; 3.) Positive Goal Setting. Other topics can be addressed as requested. Please check here if you would like to arrange a presentation for your class. Teacher s name Best time to call Email address: Best number to call 10.
VI. Parents Can Help Students Succeed! Children love to show parents how well they can do, and we greatly appreciate parent participation! In Class: You ll hear your child call for mom or dad when we ask for parent helpers! Come on up! Holding the bags not only makes your child proud, it teaches you how to properly handle the bags for drills that you can then do at home. We also need two parent helpers for the check-in desk each class. Please let us know if you are interested in helping at the desk. All parents are encouraged to observe class. If you can not observe, please remember to walk your child into the classroom and arrive back for pick up 5 minutes before the end of class. A Watched Child is a Safe Child. Help your child learn respect for our dojo. Please keep conversations to a minimum or conduct them outside. At Home: Remind your child the day they have class to pack their karate t-shirt, uniform and gear! Our South Coast Karate backpacks and duffle bags make good reminders! Purchasing gear from us not only assures you of a quality product, but we ll also make sure it fits properly for your safety! Your purchases are appreciated and help support our program. Remind your child to practice. We recommend practice at least 2 times a week. Take 5-10 minutes each day to practice. This can really improve strength and balance, which leads to better skill performance. In the Community: We participate in a number of community events. Some, like the parades, are fun and build confidence. Others are community service events that help promote a sense of belonging and responsibility. I encourage you and your child to participate in these events when your schedule permits.. 11.
VII. Class Locations! MONDAY 3:00 3:40 (Subject to change, please go to southcoastkarate.com for current locations. Isla Vista 6875 El Colegio Rd. Goleta, CA 93117 4:30 5:00 5:30 6:10 6:15 6:55 G.V.C.C. 5679 Hollister Ave. Goleta CA 93117 Tiny Tigers Goju Ryu Adults & Advanced kids Weapons TUESDAY 1:20 1:50 Montecito YMCA (Members only) 591 Santa Rosa Lane Tiny Tigers YMCA 2:35 3:25 3:30 4:10 Cold Spring 2243 Sycamore Canyon Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93108 / Intermediates 4:35 5:15 Montecito YMCA (Members only) 591 Santa Rosa Lane Vieja Valley (Multi-purpose room) 6875 El Colegio Rd., Goleta, CA 93117 3:00 3:40 WEDNESDAY 1:30 2:10 Monroe 431 Flora Vista Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 9309 2:40 3:20 Washington 290 Lighthouse Rd. Santa Barbara, CA 93109 5:00 5:30 5:35 6:15 6:20 7:00 Oak Valley 595 Second Street, Buellton, CA 93427 Tiny Tigers Goju Ryu Adults & Advanced kids THURSDAY 1:30 2:10 Monte Vista 730 N. Hope Avenue 2:30-3:15 3:15 3:55 Peabody Charter 3018 Calle Noguera, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 Panther Program (Peabody students only) 4:40-5:10 5:15-5:55 6:00-6:40 6:45-7:25 G.V.C.C. 5679 Hollister Ave. Goleta CA 93117 Tiny tigers Workshop Goju Ryu Adults & Advanced kids FRIDAY 2:30-3:10 Buena Vista 100 Alderbaran, Lompoc, CA 93438 4:10 4:40 4:45-5:25 5:30-6:10 Oak Valley 595 Second Street, Buellton, CA 93427 Tiny Tigers Goju Ryu Adults & Advanced kids SATURDAYS Private Lessons. (also available on Mon, Wed & Fri. Call for appointment) 12.
VIII: Karate Terminology 13.
IX. Tiny Tigers Attention Parents: Tiny Tigers Are Here! South Coast Karate is proud to announce it s All New Tiny Tigers Program. Specially designed for 3-6 year olds! We give your child the building blocks to improve self-esteem. We show your child how to develop their personal Safety Zone! We will help your child build their self-confidence. We will teach your child how to solve conflicts nonviolently. We use high-energy classes to channel aggressive behavior in a fun way. We will create a fun and educational environment to help your Tiny Tiger grow! SOUTH COAST KARATE Making a Difference Everyday! Reserve your spot! Call Now (805) 687-5001 Proud to be selected as a program which puts Children First
X. Practice Sheet / Good Deeds 14. 15.
XI. Rates Rates effective April 2009. Rates subject to change. KID POWER Basic Plan: Only $10 a class paid in full at the beginning of each quarter. (from $80 - $150.) (This entitles the student to take 1 class a week) Plus Plan A: (is a 6 month agreement) $149 payment due at signing of this agreement with following monthly payments due before the same day of every month. The payment of $894 is spread over 6 months. (Entitles the student to take multiple classes at appropriate age and ability level.) Plus Plan B: (is a 6 month agreement paid in full) Save $100!!! Yearly payment in full $794 on date of registration! (Entitles the student to take multiple classes at appropriate age and ability level.) Please make checks payable to: South Coast Karate and mail to 3830 Sterrett Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93110. A late fee of $20 will be charged on all payments not received before the due date of each month. Thank You, Brian Jordan 16.
XII. Registration Form SOUTH COAST KARATE Home of KID POWER STUDENT REGISTRATION FORM S.C.K. USE ONLY Class Fee: Student's Name: D.O.B. Age: School: Address: Street City State Zip Parent's/Legal guardian's name: Phone / Home:( ) Work:( ) Email: I, the adult student, or guardian of the minor student listed above, do consent and agree that SOUTH COAST KARATE ORGANIZATION, and any sponsoring organization, facility instructor, and any other party involved are hereby released and held harmless from all claims and liability due to any injuries and/or damages I may suffer as a result of ordinary negligence or carelessness including the risk that are incidental to the participation in the karate program. Student and/or guardian is familiar with the risks associated with this sports program and assumes these risks. It is acknowledged that negligent and even careless conduct is an inherent risk of this sport. It is further agreed that student or guardian will defend, indemnify and hold harmless SOUTH COAST KARATE, and its employees, from any claims arising from injury caused by student. STUDENT/ GUARDIAN SIGNATURE: DATE Make checks payable to South Coast Karate and Mail to: 3830 Sterrett Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93110. 17.