American Karate & Martial Science

February 2012 Newsletter

2012-02-05T19:43:00.001-06:00

ROOTS

Mr. Williams' martial arts history is rooted in several martial arts. The first martial art that he studied was Taekwondo. His first instructor was Manuel C. Pina. Mr. Williams began studying in 1971 and received his black belt from Mr. Pina in August of 1982. Mr. Williams was one of Mr. Pina's first black belts being the first black belt officially tested by Mr. Pina. When he was promoted Mr. Pina passed down his original black belt which Mr. Williams continues to wear until this day.

Mr. Pina began studying Taekwondo under Eduardo "Eddie" Castor. He received his black under Mr. Castor in 1973. Master Eduardo Castor is the Instructor/Owner of Castor's Academy of Taekwondo in Lakewood, CO. He started Training in Moo Duk Kwan TaeKwondo while stationed in Korea with the U.S. Army in 1963. Mr. Castor trained under the tutelage of 10th Dan Grand Master, Bobby Kim for over 40 years and currently holds a 8th Dan (degree) Black Belt.

In the late 70's Mr. Williams trained under Sam Price. In the 60's Mr. Price attended a tournament where he met Russ Perrone, one of Mr. Kim’s Black Belts in Tae Kwon Do. Perrone invited Mr. Price to train with him and Mr. Kim any time he was in Colorado. Mr. Price took them up on their offer and trained with them about once a month, when possible, for the next couple of years. During this time, Mr. Perrone promoted Sam to Black Belt in order for Sam to be able to compete as a member of Mr. Kim’s tournament fighting team. Then, in about 1972, Sam met James Henshaw in Hutchinson. Henshaw had been stationed with the US Army in Sachebo, Japan and had his Black Belt in Japanese Go Ju Ryu Karate. Sam studied with Mr. Henshaw and was promoted to Black Belt in GoJu Ryu Karate.

Mr. Williams being rooted in two strong classical martial arts continued to train with other notable martial artists in various systems learning their styles, systems and weapons. His years of study and training have made him one of the best instructors in Kansas.

NEW STUDENTS

Cayden, Gagnon, Dawson, Brayden, Canyon, Cade

Alex Graduates from Lil' Dragons

Lazarus

Lucas

KANSAS SUPERFIGHTS SNOWMEGGADON
January 28, 2012 Results:

Zack Perry
1st Place 8-9 Novice Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Dakota Douglas
2nd Place 8-9 Novice Kata
1st Place Kumite

Taty Huhn
1st Place 11-12 Int. Kata
1st Place Weapons Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Christine Warring
1st Place Black Belt Kata
1st Place Weapons Kata
1st Place Kumite

FEBRUARY 4TH, 2012 BELT TEST

Tate Sazama - Jr. Brown
Taty Huhn - Jr. Brown
Nolan Clark - Purple
Jolea Wheeler - Jr. Purple
Levi Geesling - Jr. Purple
Shayla Johnson - Jr. Purple
Madison Francis - Jr. Green

SEVEN TRAINING PRECEPTS

Karate is a martial art. You must practice with the utmost seriousness from the very beginning. This means going beyond being simply diligent or sincere in your training. In every step, in every movement of your hand, you must imagine yourself facing an opponent with a drawn sword. Each and every punch must be made with your entire body behind it, with the feeling of destroying your opponent with a single blow. You must believe that if your punch fails, you will forfeit your own life.

Try to do exactly as you are taught without complaining or quibbling. Only those lacking zeal and unwilling to face up to themselves resort to quibbling. You cannot train through words. You must learn through your body. Enduring pain and anguish as you strive to discipline and polish yourself; you must believe that if others can do it, you can do it too.

When you are learning a new technique, practice it wholeheartedly until you truly understand it. Do not crave to know everything all at once. Practice painstakingly. Karate has many techniques and kata. Do not fall into the trap of thinking that because there is so much to learn, you should learn everything in a general way.Don’t pretend to be a great master and don’t try to show off your strength. It is absurd that many of those practicing the martial arts feel they must make a show of being a martial artist. The tendency to act big or superior is usually most conspicuous among novices. By acting that way, they degrade and ruin the reputation of those seriously practicing martial arts.

Remember that you must always have a deep regard for courtesy, and must be respectful and obedient towards your seniors. There is no martial art that does not stress the importance of courtesy and respectful manners.

You must ignore the bad and adopt the good. When you observe the practice of others and discover something that you should learn, try to master it without hesitation. If you see a man sliding into idleness, examine yourself with strict eyes. When you see a man who is particularly good at kicking, ask yourself why his kick is so good. How can you learn to kick like that; how does your kick differ? In this manner, you should be able to devise a method to improve your kick. When you see a man that does not seem to improve, again ask yourself why. Maybe he does not train enough or maybe he lacks determination. Ask yourself, does not the same hold true for you?

Think of everyday life as karate training. Do not think of karate as only belonging to the dojo, nor only as a fighting method. The spirit of karate practice and the elements of training are applicable to each and every aspect of our daily lives.

Master Gichin Funakoshi

KARATE-DO NYUMON

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

Promotions

2012-02-04T19:29:00.000-06:00

February 2012

Tate Sazama - Jr. Brown
Taty Huhn - Jr. Brown
Nolan Clark - Purple
Jolea Wheeler - Jr. Purple
Levi Geesling - Jr. Purple
Shayla Johnson - Jr. Purple
Madison Francis - Jr. Green

KANSAS SUPERFIGHTS SNOWMEGGADON

2012-01-29T19:12:00.000-06:00

Karate Tournament Results
January 28, 2012 Results:

Zack Perry
1st Place 8-9 Novice Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Dakota Douglas
2nd Place 8-9 Novice Kata
1st Place Kumite

Taty Huhn
1st Place 11-12 Int. Kata
1st Place Weapons Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Christine Warring
1st Place Black Belt Kata
1st Place Weapons Kata
1st Place Kumite

January 2012 Newsletter

2012-01-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

HOLIDAY CLASS SCHEDULES

American Karate will be closed Monday New Years day, January 1st. Classes will resume Tuesday with the Adult classes on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday being open 6:30 to 8:00 on Tuesday and Thursday and 7:30-8:30 on Wednesday. Lil’ Dragons and Youth Karate hours will remain the same.

Holiday Schedule for 2012
There will be no classes on these days.

New Year's Day	Monday	January 2, 2012
Martin Luther King Day	Monday	January 16, 2012
Memorial Day	Monday	May 28, 2012
Independence Day	Wednesday	July 4, 2012
Labor Day	Monday	September 3, 2012
Veterans Day	Monday	November 12, 2012
Thanksgiving Day	Thursday	November 22, 2012
Thanksgiving Friday	Friday	November 23, 2012
Christmas	Monday	December 24, 2012
Christmas	Tuesday	December 25, 2012

CHANGES AND ADDITIONS FOR 2012

There will be a few changes for the New Year. This will be the year for upgrade programs. Weapons training will be an upgrade program. Weapons training start at purple belt level. The Leadership Program will be an upgrade also starting at the purple belt level. This program will work on enhancing the students leadership skills. These programs are additional to your monthly tuition. Those students that are purple belt level and above prior to classes starting will be grandfathered in with no tuition change.

Weapons Class $10.00 per month
Leadership Program $10.00 per month

Dates and times to be announced.

BUSHIDO VIIRTUE #4 Rei - Respect

I’ve had lots of people ask me why we bow in martial arts. What I never knew until now was that the commanding word in Japanese that a sensei uses to instruct his students to bow – “rei” – is also the word for respect, the “why” we bow.

Dictionary.com states that respect as a noun means “esteem for or a sense of the worth or excellence of a person, a personal quality or ability, or something considered as a manifestation of a personal quality or ability” or “deference to a right, privilege, privileged position, or someone or something considered to have certain rights or privileges; proper acceptance or courtesy”. As a verb, respect means “to hold in esteem or honor”, or “to show regard or consideration for”, or “to refrain from intruding upon or interfering with”. The kanji character is also translated as “thanking; gratitude”. This is what we learn bowing is all about – thanking our sensei for teaching, our fellow karate-ka for working out with us, whoever pays the bills that keeps our dojo open, all those who’ve trained before us so we can learn, etc.

Interestingly, Nitobe treats this virtue as politeness. He says, “Politeness is a poor virtue, if it is actuated only by a fear of offending good taste, whereas it should be the outward manifestation of a sympathetic regard for the feelings of others. It also implies a due regard for the fitness of things, therefore due respect to social positions; for these latter express no plutocratic distinctions, but were originally distinctions for actual merit”. Basically, I believe this means that respect means nothing if it’s only given because you feel like you have to, or you’re scared into it. It’s supposed to be a reflection of what you really feel – an admiration, an appreciation for the person, place or thing.

The rituals that we have in martial arts were developed as training devices for youth and produced “power in repose”. As you practice the seemingly mundane and monotonous motions of a ceremony (or kata perhaps), you begin to understand what Nitobe describes: “[the ceremony] denotes the result of long observation as to the most appropriate method of achieving a certain result. If there is anything to do, there is certainly a best way to do it, and the best way is both the most economical and the most graceful”. Our elders, senseis, instructors, and the great masters of old have learned, fine-tuned, and passed on to us this knowledge (basics, kata, dojo etiquette, etc). We show them respect when we give 110% in our efforts to practice what they’ve taught us. We also show them respect when we respect others in martial arts, no matter their background, style, or differences.

So, gi (rectitude) is the compass that points north, yu (courage) is the gut-level decision to go north, jin (benevolence) is the mindframe of helping others on their journey north with you … then let’s add to that – rei (respect) is the outward actions shown by you to your instructors, fellow karate-ka, and yourself as you journey north.

What does this look like? We bow when we enter the dojo, the training floor, before and after kata, to our partners, to our instructors. We line up our shoes as carefully and meticulously as we can. We keep our uniforms clean and in good repair. We stay silent during class so we can listen, then learn, then practice. We bow to black belts when they enter the room. At tournaments, we still practice what we’ve learned even if others don’t. We dig deep and practice with all that we have.

Be prepared for those who claim you are OCD. Even Nitobe noted Western criticism for the seemingly ridiculous attention placed on Japanese ceremonial observations. But remember – respect is not something you demonstrate to win someone’s approval. Again, bushido is a way of life and can’t simply be checked in and out at the dojo door. If respect is simply an outward manifestation of rectitude, courage, and benevolence; then we should be showing a lot of respect.

Now that we’ve investigated where we are regarding the previous three bushido virtues, let’s begin looking at where we can improve how we let it show in terms of respect. Start by thinking through all the little bitty details at the dojo. Are you just going through the motions of bowing, putting your shoes in line, etc? Or are you aware of the respect attached to these actions? Where can you take this into your life outside the dojo?

By Cristine Warring, AKMS Sedan, Kansas

MARTIAL ARTS MASTERY

Karate's great wisdom is that physical ability alone does not qualify an individual for the title of " Master". We have seen and known outstanding technicians who have worked long and hard to achieve mastery, and failed because they could not conceive that physical ability is only the first step on the ladder. Wisdom is the combination of the physical and spiritual, to which moral qualities such as humility, courtesy, sympathy, patience, and impassiveness must be added. When these elements art combined, mastery are in reach.

In the East, Karate was not a hobby to be sampled then discarded. It was viewed as a labor of a lifetime, and a voyage of discovery, that started from the acheivements of those that have gone before. There was no quick way to "mastery"; progress came slowly and painfully, not lessening in severity, intensity, strength, or pace. Being exposed to many sources of knowledge over an extended period, the student became an instructor as naturally as a blossom becomes fruit, never rushing the normal progression of time. Depth of knowledge was prized. As Shotokan founder and master, Gichin Funakoshi stated, " The old masters used to keep a narrow field but ploughed a deep furrow. Present day students have a broad field but only plough a narrow furrow."

December 2011 Newsletter

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

SPECIAL GUEST

Martial arts instructor, friend and martial arts colleague of Mr. Williams, Sensei H. James Young paid us a visit from Denton Maryland. Instructor H. James Young has been in the Martial Arts for over 35 years. It was joy having him in class as well as working with our students.

His background includes training martial arts styles including Jujitsu, Kenpo, Kung Fu, Gung Fu, Judo, Jeet Kun Do, Aikido, and Hapkido. Also, some of the weapons he has had training with are nunchuckus, baton, long staff, samurai sword, and sai. He is trained to use almost anything as a weapon from a rolled up newspaper or magazine, to chopsticks, or a fountain pen case to a man’s pant belt to use in self defense.

He has trained with notable Martial Arts' professionals like Grand Master Charles A. Dixon (SIMAA), Master Freddie "Teach" Giddens (TUMAA), Darrel "Golden Boy" Tyler, Master Ivory Irvin (MIHOD), Master Thomas Williams (AKMS), Allan Banks, and countless other martial artists within this time frame.

STUFF THE BUS
This year for the holidays we have been collecting items for the annual Stuff The Bus program for Sexual Assault Domestic Violence Center and the kids that are children of victims of sexual and physical abuse. I want to thank everyone for bringing in food items, clothing and toys.

HOLIDAY SPECIALS
We are offering combo specials for the holidays like this sparring combo for $99.00. There are also specials on kicking bags. The new gift book also has over a hundred new items. Take the time to look through one of the Century Martial Arts gift books and place an order. Orders can be taken now but the official dates are between November 10th and December 10th. Please don’t procrastinate!!! Last year many items were on back order or could not be mailed in time for Christmas.

BELT TESTS
Anastasia Ribordy-Gold Belt
Dakota Douglas-Gold Belt
Tyshuan Tipton-Gold Belt
Zack Perry-Gold Belt
Alexander Marroquin-Gold Belt
Dakota Simmons - Gold Belt
David Glover - Jr Green Belt
Albert Glover - Jr Green Belt
Becca Zimmerman - Green Belt
Jaden Roggow - Green Belt

SAM'S KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
November 18, 2011 RESULTS:

Shayla Johnson 6-7 Intermediate
2nd Place Kata
3rd Place Sparring

Dakota Douglas 8-9 Novice
1st Place Kata
1s Place Sparring

Jolea Wheeler 8-9 Intermediate
1st Place Musical Kata
1st Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

Levi Geesling 8-9 Intermediate
2nd Place Kata
2nd Place Sparring

Sam Vonachen 12-13 Novice
2nd Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

Tatyana Huhn 12-13 Intermediate
1st Place Weapons Kata
1st Place Kata
2nd Place Sparring

Shalee Mog 12-13 Intermediate
2nd Place Weapons Kata
2nd Place Kata
1st Sparring

Becca Zimmerman 14-15 Intermediate
1st Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

Jeff Geesling Adult Intermediate
2nd Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

Cristine Warring Adult Black Belt
1st Place Kata

NEW STUDENTS
October and November

HOLIDAY CLASS SCHEDULES

American Karate will be closed Monday, December 26th Classes will resume Tuesday with the Adult classes on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday being open 6:30 to 8:00 on Monday and Tuesday and 7:30-8:30 on Wednesday. Lil’ Dragons and Youth Karate hours will remain the same. The same schedule will be followed the week after New Years day.

Holidays for 2012
There will be no classes on these days.

New Year's Day	Monday	January 2, 2012
Martin Luther King Day	Monday	January 16, 2012
Memorial Day	Monday	May 28, 2012
Independence Day	Wednesday	July 4, 2012
Labor Day	Monday	September 3, 2012
Veterans Day	Monday	November 12, 2012
Thanksgiving Day	Thursday	November 22, 2012
Thanksgiving Friday	Friday	November 23, 2012
Christmas	Monday	December 24, 2012
Christmas	Tuesday	December 25, 2012

AMERICAN KARATE PRO SHOP
The next time you visit the school check out our pro shop. We have all your martial arts needs, sparring gear, gear bags, mouth guards and cases, AKMS seat cushions t-shirts and sweat shirts. Whatever we don't have in stock we can get within a few days of placing an order.

SAM PRICE'S ALL STAR KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

2011-11-02T08:39:00.003-05:00

Karate Tournament Results

Shayla Johnson 6-7 Intermediate
2nd Place Kata
3rd Place Sparring

Dakota Douglas 8-9 Novice
1st Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

Jolea Wheeler 8-9 Intermediate
1st Place Musical Kata
1st Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

Levi Geesling 8-9 Intermediate
2nd Place Kata
2nd Place Sparring

Sam Vonachen 12-13 Novice
2nd Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

Tatyana Huhn 12-13 Intermediate
1st Place Weapons Kata
1st Place Kata
2nd Place Sparring

Shalee Mog 12-13 Intermediate
2nd Place Weapons Kata
2nd Place Kata
1st Sparring

Becca Zimmerman 14-15 Intermediate
1st Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

Jeff Geesling Adult Intermediate
2nd Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

Cristine Warring Adult Black Belt
1st Place Kata

Sam's AllStar Karate Championships
Inman, KS
Saturday, November 19, 2011

Promotions

2011-11-01T08:00:00.001-05:00

October 2011
Anastasia Ribordy-Gold Belt
Dakota Douglas-Gold Belt
Tyshuan Tipton-Gold Belt
Zack Perry-Gold Belt
Alexander Marroquin-Gold Belt
Dakota Simmons - Gold Belt
David Glover - Jr Green Belt
Albert Glover - Jr Green Belt
Becca Zimmerman - Green Belt
Jaden Roggow - Green Belt

November 2011 Newsletter

2011-11-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

WORLD MARTIAL ARTS DAY
Our students participated in the ”Kicking in the USA” World Record Kick-A-Thon as part of World Martial Arts Day on Saturday, October 15, 2011. We totaled 23,150 kicks. Taty Huhn raised the most in pledges again this year and had the highest number of kicks at 2,782 breaking her record of 2,454 from last year.

Sexual Assault Domestic Violence STUFF THE BUS for Christmas
Sam Price's All Star Karate Championships

BELT TESTS
Anastasia Ribordy-Gold Belt
Dakota Douglas-Gold Belt
Tyshuan Tipton-Gold Belt
Zack Perry-Gold Belt
Alexander Marroquin-Gold Belt

STUFF THE BUS
This year for the holidays we are going to participate in the annual Stuff the Bus program for Sexual Assault Domestic Violence Center and the kids that are children of victims of sexual and physical abuse. Many of these children will not have a decent Christmas without community assistance.

HOLIDAY SPECIALS
We are offering combo specials for the holidays like this sparring combo for $99.00. There are also specials on kicking bags. The new gift book also has over a hundred new items. Take the time to look through one of the Century Martial Arts gift books and place an order. Orders can be taken now but the official dates are between November 10th and December 10th. Please don’t procrastinate!!! Last year many items were on back order or could not be mailed in time for Christmas.

DAVE ESTES OPEN TOURNAMENT
Saturday, October 15th
Nolan Clark 9-10

Intermediate Kata-1st Place
Intermediate Sparring-4th Place

SAM PRICE'S ALL STAR KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Sam Price will be holding his annual All Star Karate Championships in Inman on Saturday, November 19, 2011. This is a good tournament for first time competitors. It is also one of the last local area tournaments until spring time.

MARTIAL ARTS TO IMPROVE FITNESS
If you have made the decision to improve your physical fitness, you will know there are a lot of options available to you. One type of exercise you may not have thought of before is martial arts although this is an area which is easier than ever to get involved in it is often over looked. In the martial arts classes, you will see that you become mentally stronger and are encouraged to advance to the next level of training. The fact that you are rewarded with a variety of colored belts helps to keep you driven with the ultimate goal of achieving the desired black belt status and the respect that comes with this. Yet another way to remain motivated is to join in available competitions. Doing these forms of martial arts will give you a fitness level and strength that you're not apt to find with any other exercise routines. The benefits of martial arts will be seen in your life outside of the training you do. You can anticipate having better relationships because of the qualities of self-control and respect you will acquire. The training is grounded on inner and outer strength which can provide you with a much more complete feeling of health and fitness when compared to other types of training.

AMERICAN KARATE PRO SHOP
The next time you visit the school check out our pro shop. We have all your martial arts needs, sparring gear, gear bags, mouth guards and cases, AKMS seat cushions t-shirts and sweat shirts. Whatever we don't have in stock we can get within a few days of placing an order.

DAVE ESTES OPEN TOURNAMENT

2011-10-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

Karate Tournament Results
Nolan Clark 9-10
Intermediate Kata-1st Place
Intermediate Sparring-4th Place

Saturday, October 15th

WORLD MARTIAL ARTS DAY KICK-A-THON

2011-10-02T08:30:00.000-05:00

WORLD MARTIAL ARTS DAY KICK-A-THON
Saturday October 15th, 2011

Saturday, October 15th we will be participating in the annual World Martial Arts Day Kick-A-Thon. We will be collecting pledges and donations in order to allow students that are under privileged and at risk to take karate lessons. The past two years we have collected over $1000.00 on this particular fund raiser. This year our goal is $1500.00. As always we encourage you to help your child to collect pledges and donations. We will also need help with kick counters.

WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE

2011-10-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE
OCTOBER 22nd, 2011

Saturday October 22nd we will be doing our annual Women's Self Defense seminar in support of Domestic Violence month. This is normally an eight hour workshop conducted over eight days. This year will be a one day event. This seminar is open to female participants age 13 and over.

October 2011 Newsletter

2011-10-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

BULLYING & YOUTH SELF DEFENSE

Bullying has become an epidemic with our youth during and after school. The prevalence of bullying and harassment in America’s schools and that students who experience harassment are more likely to miss classes can impact a student’s ability to learn. Teens report that they have been verbally or physically harassed or assaulted during the past year because of their perceived or actual appearance, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression, race/ethnicity, disability or religion. The majority of students who experience harassment in school, regardless of demographics or reasons for the harassment, never report these incidents of harassment to teachers or other school personnel. Although most teachers report that they would feel comfortable intervening if they observed harassment and many say they frequently have intervened, one in ten (10%) students who do not report these incidents don’t do so because they believe teachers or staff don’t do anything or are powerless to improve the situation. At American Karate we do not condone fighting unless absolutely necessary. We have a three strikes and you’re out rule. This means that if you are being bullied or assaulted you are to tell your teacher immediately and then tell your parents. It is the parent’s responsibility to contact the school system to find out what is being done and informing the teacher or principal that you are taking martial arts for self defense, strike one! The next time you are harassed or assaulted you must do the same, strike two!! The third time you are within your right to defend yourself, strike three!!! It is a harsh reality but keep in mind that even though you are defending yourself, you are still subject to policies of the public school system in regards to disciplinary action for fighting at school.

If we are going to have a zero tolerance school system when it comes to fighting, bullying and other violence we need to have an in school investigative process that protects innocent youth and youth that defend themselves against the same sanctions that are given those that start fights, bully and commit physical and sexual assaults at school. It is the communities responsibility to make their voice heard to the school board and superintendent of your school district.

BELT TEST/PROMOTIONS
September 22, 2011

Eddie Alexander, 1st Degree Black Belt

WORLD MARTIAL ARTS DAY KICK-A-THON
Saturday October 15th, 2011

Saturday, October 15th we will be participating in the annual World Martial Arts Day Kick-A-Thon. We will be collecting pledges and donations in order to allow students that are under privileged and at risk to take karate lessons. The past two years we have collected over $1000.00 on this particular fund raiser. This year our goal is $1500.00. As always we encourage you to help your child to collect pledges and donations. We will also need help with kick counters.

WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE
October 22nd, 2011

Saturday October 22nd we will be doing our annual Women's Self Defense seminar in support of Domestic Violence month. This is normally an eight hour workshop conducted over eight days. This year will be a one day event. This seminar is open to female participants age 13 and over.

NEW STUDENTS

Kyleah

Kristen

Aaron

AMERICAN KARATE PRO SHOP

The next time you visit the school check out our pro shop. We have all your martial arts needs, sparring gear, gear bags, mouth guards and cases, AKMS seat cushions t-shirts and sweat shirts. Whatever we don't have in stock we can get within a few days of placing an order.

Promotions

2011-09-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

September 22, 2011

Eddie Alexander, 1st Degree Black Belt

August/September 2011 Newsletter

2011-09-01T06:30:00.000-05:00

GOING BACK TO SCHOOL

It's school time again! You're probably feeling excited and maybe a little sad that summer is over. Some kids feel nervous or a little scared on the first day of school because of all the new things: new teachers, new friends, and maybe even a new school. Luckily, these "new" worries only stick around for a little while.When teachers do the talking on the first day, they often go over classroom rules so you'll know what's allowed and what's not. Pay close attention so you'll know if you need to raise your hand to ask a question and what the rules are about visiting the restroom.

You might already know a lot of kids in your classes on the first day. But it's a great day to make a new friend, so try to say hello to kids you know and new ones that you don't. Make the first move and you'll be glad you did and so will your new friend!

SUMMER HOURS ENDING FOR ADULT CLASSES

Reminder!!! Adult classes go back to regular schedule effective Tuesday, September 6th.

KANSAS SUNFLOWER GAMES RESULTS

Saturday July 16, 2011
Shayla Johnson
7-8 Int. Kata, 1st Place
7-8 Int. Sparring, 1st Place

BELT TEST/PROMOTIONS
LiL’ Dragons

Charlie Douherty-Gold Stripe
Damien Hurt-Gold Stripe

UPCOMING EVENTS

World Martial Arts Day Kick-A-Thon

NEW STUDENTS

Damien Hurt

Rob McCaleb

WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE

Women’s Self Defense will take place again this year during the month of October which Sexual Assault Domestic Violence Month. This year the class will take place on a Saturday instead of being spread out throughout the month of October. It will be different doing a one day class but we will see how it works.

IN MEMORIUM

American Karate black belt Edward "Mark" Young, 42, died Aug. 25, 2011, at University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, Colo. He was born March 26, 1969, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mark worked at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, first as a K-9 Officer and then as an Electronic Technologist. He was a good student and will be missed.

LEADERSHIP

Most people often feel like they are threatened when they think about what is leadership. They get scared when somebody stands out in the crowd and does things that are different from the norm. That’s what happens when you are leader; you stand out instead of blending in.

When asking the question “what is leadership, and what does it mean?” I’d have to say that leadership means that you are willing to take on responsibility and make choices for yourself. It’s not a responsibility that was thrust upon you by someone, but a responsibility that you took upon yourself because you believe that you are the best one for the job. And once you make this choice for yourself you automatically have no other option but to become a leader.

Another great point about leadership is that an effective leader needs to be able to create more leaders on his or her team. You want to be able to have the people following you stand up and get noticed so they in turn have other people following them while a chain of responsibility and cohesiveness forms so you create a well oiled machine.

Promotions

2011-09-01T06:00:00.001-05:00

August 2011
LiL’ Dragons
Charlie Douherty-Gold Stripe
Damien Hurt-Gold Stripe

KANSAS SUNFLOWER GAMES

2011-07-16T08:00:00.002-05:00

Karate Tournament Results

Shayla Johnson
Traditional Forms (Int.) age 6-7 - 1st place
Sparring (Int.) age 6-7 - 1st place

Saturday July 16, 2011
Church of the King Church
5973 SW 25th Street
Topeks, Kansas
Contact: Tony Mielenz, 785-554-4220
anthonymielenz@yahoo.com
Please visit www.sunflowergames.com to register.

Promotions

2011-07-10T08:00:00.008-05:00

July 8th & 9th 2011
Jeff Geesling, Green Belt
James Francis, Gold Belt
Annie Francis, Gold Belt
Allysa Francis, Gold Belt
Austin Kruetzer, Gold Belt
Gabriel McCaskey, Gold Belt
Ian Ward, Gold Belt

July 2011 Newsletter

2011-07-01T08:00:00.075-05:00

SPIRIT WEEK JUNE 20-25

Spirit Week was well attended this year. Because of the outstanding attendance we held this yearly event in Carey Park every day except for Thursday because of rain. We covered basic fundamentals of karate as well as the critical skills of kata, step sparring and self defense. Students were expected to work hard and not pace themselves but give all they have to give. This was a non-stop class. On Friday the black belts had a special class where they were shook down on their kata, step sparring and self defense.

On Saturday Mr. Williams honored his students and their immediate family members with a bar-b-que at Rice Parks. Almost 100 students and their family members were served. Mr. Williams would like to thank Rev. Francis for helping him cook.

Mr. and Mrs. Williams had prizes to give away this year introducing a few new pro shop items. We now have American Karate water bottles, seat cushions and sports bags.

SPIRIT WEEK AWARDS

Promotions
Cristine Warring-1st Degree Black Belt
Wendy Brown-3rd Degree Black Belt
Jean Gaeddert-5th Degree Black Belt

Outstanding Student-Adult
Jeff Geesling-AKMS Hutch
Dan Dewitt-AKMS Sedan

Outstanding Student-Youth
Tate Sazama-AKMS Hutch

Honorable Mention
Zoey Pisano
Leah Bentley
Jaden Roggow-AKMS Sedan

Outstanding Competitor
Shayla Johnson

TOURNAMENTS AND SEMINARS

SAM'S SUMMER KICK OFF RESULTS

Shayla Johnson 6-7 Intermediate
1st - Kata
1st - Sparring

Jolea Wheeler 8-9 Intermediate
1st - Kata
1st - Sparring
1st - Musical kata
3rd - u-tug
3rd - Obstacle course

Tatyana Huhn 10-11 Intermediate
1st - Kata
1st - Weapons Kata
1st - Sparring

KANSAS SUNFLOWER GAMES
Saturday July 16, 2011
Church of the King Church
5973 SW 25th Street
Contact: Tony Mielenz, 785-554-4220
anthonymielenz@yahoo.com
Please visit www.sunflowergames.com to register.

NEW STUDENTS

Charles Daugherty

Brittany Bosworth

David Bosworth

SPECIAL GUEST

John Case, Eddie Alexander, Alex Echer, Mr. Williams, Jean Gaeddert, Marcia Dillon

Alexander Ecker visited our school last December. He is from Saudi Arabia. He came back this year to train for several weeks. He participated in this year’s Spirit Week.

MARTIAL SPIRIT

Martial Artists always look inward. This means that they evaluate themselves, truthfully seeking faults that can be corrected just as they always look at their own techniques and seek ways to improve them. You cannot control the actions of other people, but you can control yourself so that even if someone else acts inappropriately, your own conduct is your own responsibility and is not excused by what someone else may have done.

The spiritual aspects of the Martial Arts are not as mystical and abstruse as they seem. The physical and mental training hones the spirit as well as the body, and the practitioner will naturally change in personality as well as physically. From unremitting training comes indomitable spirit; from the great exertion sometimes required to achieve even modest goals comes modesty; from a knowledge of how much you do not know comes humility; from the realization that only you can judge yourself and that “faking it” only hurts yourself comes honesty; from a realization of that the effort you put into your training is equaled or exceeded by the efforts of others comes respect; and from the recognition of your own shortcomings that become apparent during your training comes tolerance. The spirit of the Martial Arts is not separate from the practice: it is a part of the practice.

Tiger Space Walk

Vance Mayes, Owner 620-960-2536

Vance is the father of American Karate student, Payten Mayes. Tiger Spacewalk offers bounce houses/moonwalks for their customer's entertainment. These bounce houses are great for parties, barbecues, family gatherings, and many more. Just call and let them know the details of your event and they will promptly take care of the rest. They will deliver, set up, and take the bounce houses down.

11 THINGS YOU WILL NOT LEARN IN SCHOOL

RULE 1: Life is not fair - get used to it.

RULE 2: The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.

RULE 3: You will NOT make 40 thousand dollars a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice president with car phone, until you earn both.

RULE 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss. He doesn't have tenure.

RULE 5: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your grandparents had a different word for burger flipping they called it Opportunity.

RULE 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.

RULE 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you are. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

RULE 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life has not. In some schools they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as many times as
you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.

RULE 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you find yourself. Do that on your own time.

RULE 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

RULE 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.

--Bill Gates

11th ANNUAL MIDWEST KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

2011-06-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

Saturday June 11, 2011
Hays Recreation Center
1105 Canterbury Drive
Hays Kansas
Contact: Kevin Gottschalk
785-623-9570
karatefitness@sbcglobal.net

June 2011 Newsletter

2011-05-30T09:10:00.001-05:00

TUITION AND MEMBERSHIP CHANGES

Monthly tuition went up this month on single and family plans. Those that purchased Lifetime Memberships will have their tuitions locked in. Your membership will only change when you go from a single plan to a family plan or when you are on a family plan and add additional members. This membership has always been optional and the purchase of a Lifetime Membership will lock in your current rates for the life of the school.

SPIRIT WEEK JUNE 20-25

Spirit Week is coming the fourth week of June. This is a special class that meets Monday through Thursday with all the black belts meeting on Friday evening. From Monday through Thursday everyone is in class together for an hour and a half to two hours. We will cover basic fundamentals of karate as well as the critical skills of kata, step sparring and self defense. This is the period of time when Mr. Williams gives his students a taste of the “Old Days”. Students are expected to work hard and not pace themselves but give all they have to give. This is a non-stop class. If you feel the need to take a break you will have to take one on your own. We may be having class in one of the area parks so make sure to bring a bottle of water.

On Friday the black belts have a special class where they are shook down on their kata, step sparring and self defense. On Saturday Mr. Williams will honor his students and their immediate family members with a bar-b-que at one of the local parks. This year the picnic will be at Rice Park at the shelter building from 1:00 until. We look forward to your attendance.

SUMMER HOURS

Summer hours for the adult karate classes will go in effect June1st through August 31st. All adult classes will be "open classes" on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The new schedule has been posted at the front desk and on bulletin boards.

Monday 7:30 - 8:30 Adult Open
Tuesday 6:30 - 8:00 Adult Open
Thursday 6:30 - 8:00 Adult Open

HOW DO I ACHIEVE A BLACK BELT?

Black Belt rank can be achieved in several ways. One way is to allow your ego to have you strap one on. This seems to be a common practice today. However, it is disrespectful towards those who worked hard to earn their way. Another way is to be recognized by a board of respectable and reputable black belts who respect you for your years of training and competition. The traditional way is to go through the belt system of your particular style and take the formal examination. This exam can be anywhere from 4-8 hours long.

It should be understood that black belt rank is an accomplishment in itself. When you make black belt you are on probation for six months to a year. Then you meet the qualifications for shodan (1st Degree). Additional dan ranks may be obtained every three years after first dan.

In many systems of the martial arts, second dan is considered an instructor level black belt. In this system you may also recieve an instructors certificate. This certificate is issued after 1000 hours of instruction under the supervision of the chief instructor.

All black belts are required to remain in good standing with his/her instructor. All black belts are required to shakedown yearly. American Karate black belts may be stripped of their rank for inappropriate behavior in the dojo or the community.

TOURNAMENTS AND SEMINARS

11th ANNUAL MIDWEST KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Saturday June 11, 2011
Hays Recreation Center
1105 Canterbury Drive
Hays Kansas
Contact: Kevin Gottschalk
785-623-9570
karatefitness@sbcglobal.net

SAM'S SUMMER KICK OFF
Date and time pending
Contact: Sam or Jessica Price
620-669-9051
Hutchkarate@sbcglobal.net

KANSAS SUNFLOWER GAMES
Saturday July 16, 2011
Church of the King Church
5973 SW 25th Street
Topeks, Kansas
Contact: Tony Mielenz, 785-554-4220
anthonymielenz@yahoo.com
Please visit www.sunflowergames.com to register.

SAM'S SUMMER KICK OFF

2011-05-30T08:00:00.003-05:00

Karate Tournament Results

Shayla Johnson 6-7 Intermediate
1st - Kata
1st - Sparring

Jolea Wheeler 8-9 Intermediate
1st - Kata
1st - Sparring
1st - Musical kata
3rd - u-tug
3rd - Obstacle course

Tatyana Huhn 10-11 Intermediate
1st - Kata
1st - Weapons Kata
1st - Sparring

SAM'S SUMMER KICK OFF
Date and time pending
Contact: Sam or Jessica Price
620-669-9051
Hutchkarate@sbcglobal.net

May 2011 Newsletter

2011-05-01T23:47:00.007-05:00

Belt Test April 9, 2011

Gold Belts: Lourdes Albert, Leah Bentley, Dan Dewitt, Madison Francis, Levi Dewitt, Barrett Yoder, Lori Francis, Sam Vonachen and Jalen Barlow. Jr. Green Belt: Jaden Roggow

NEW STUDENTS

Dakota

Alexander

Zoey

DOJO ETTIQUETTE

The way of the empty hand begins and ends with courtesy and respect. This is, and should be evident throughout the Dojo for any student that takes notice. A student must first and always remember that they are being given the gift of knowledge of the martial arts. The fees are for your private personal membership to belong to the Dojo. Fees are also for the space used, maintenance and utilities of the facility in which to train. In other words, what an instructor has to offer is for free!!! In the classical schools each student must be accepted by the instructor as a candidate for membership to receive this gift of Martial Arts, and may be asked to leave at any time if they show disrespect or misuse the knowledge they have been given. The student candidate is expected to come to class ready and eager to learn, with the proper equipment and attire.

Upon entering the dojo (training hall) all students will give courtesy by coming to attention by placing their arms by their side and bring both feet together and bow from the waist. Students will then proceed to the dressing room and change into their gi (uniform). Male students normally do not wear a t-shirt under their gi top. They may wear a black under garment. The female students must always wear an under garment. They may wear a black t-shirt or one that matches the color of their obi (belt). Once the student changes into their gi, they should proceed to the training area and warm up by doing light cardio, dynamic stretches. Once you have entered the Dojo there is to be absolutely no horseplay, or joking around. If class has not yet begun, you may begin stretching or do some warm up on your own by practicing your Kata or bag work. Kumite or sparring is not permitted without the permission of the instructor.

Any activity prior to class starting that may be considered disturbing to the atmospheric conditions of the Dojo is not permitted. When the Instructor comes into the dojo courtesy should be given, and the student should then continue to warm up. When class is called to order the Instructor will say, "Line up!" Students will line up according to belt rank with the senior belt on the right. All students will then come to attention and give courtesy as instructed.

Maintain your respect for each other, in and out of the Dojo and your instructor at all times and get the most out of the time you spend there. Students are to come to class and be ready to learn, not to talk and disturb others.

SUMMER HOURS

Summer hours for the adult karate classes will go in effect the June1st through August 31st. All adult classes will be "open classes" on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The new schedule will be posted at the front desk and on bulletin boards soon.

Promotions

2011-05-01T19:34:00.000-05:00

May 2011

Gold Belts:
Lourdes Albert
Leah Bentley
Dan Dewitt
Madison Francis
Levi Dewitt
Barrett Yoder
Lori Francis
Sam Vonachen
Jalen Barlow

Jr. Green Belt:
Jaden Roggow

April 2011 Newsletter

2011-04-01T09:39:00.000-05:00

CLASS SCHEDULE CHANGE
APRIL 11-14

There will be a class schedule change April 11 through the 14th. Mr. Williams will be away teaching the last Defensive Tactics Instructor School of his law enforcement career. He has been instructing and co-instructing these schools for twenty-one years. During that week there will not be any class for the Lil’ Dragons. Youth Intermediate classes will start at 5:30 and the adult classes will be open from 6:30 to 7:30 Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

Lil' Dragon's...........12 months @ $50.00
Lil' Dragon's.............6 months @ $55.00
Lil' Dragon's............Family (X2)...$90.00

College Students.........................$30.00

Regular Rates........12 months @ $65.00
Regular Rates..........6 months @ $70.00
Regular Rates........Family (X2)..$110.00
Regular Rates........Family (X3)..$130.00
Regular Rates........Family (X4)..$165.00

Lifetime Membership (Regular karate only) $50.00

BUSHIDO VIRTUE #3: Jin or Benevolence

Whoa! Benevolence is not a word we see on a day-to-day basis! It brings up images of religious saints, philanthropists, and Boy Scouts helping someone cross the street. It seems to be reserved for those special people that do not get caught up in the rat race of trying to keep up with the Jones’.
The World English Dictionary defines benevolence as “inclination or tendency to help or do good to others”. It stems from Latin – meaning disposition to do good. Similar words are altruism, amity, compassion, generosity, kindness, charity, mercy. Benevolence is one of the five tenets of Confucius, perhaps the most fundamental. It has also been translated as selflessness, good will toward humanity, and brotherly love. The kanji itself is described as a man and the number two – implying the unity of two human beings. Mencius, a follower of Confucius, sums it up, as “a benevolent man is ever mindful of those who are suffering and in distress”.

Nitobe theorizes that benevolence is seen as the tenderness of a warrior giving mercy intentionally when justice demands payment, and the warrior has the power to exact the payment.
If gi (rectitude) is the compass that points north, and yu (courage) is the gut-level decision and action to GO north, then jin (benevolence) might be the mind frame of helping others on their journey north with you. There is a distinct difference between being benevolent and doing something benevolent. Every time a new person comes to our dojo, we make an extra effort to introduce ourselves and make them feel welcome.

It’s not something we have to think about, we just do it. Think of how many dojos out there treat newcomers like dirt until they survive their first belt test, or even far beyond that. When we go to tournaments, we help each other and our competition with getting gear on, knowing where to go, and what to expect. We step in to coach kids we don’t know whose instructor is tied up simply so they can do well in their sparring match. Our dojo and its members operate from a base of benevolence, not cutthroat rivalry. It isn’t a one-time event; it is our mode of operation. Step outside the dojo doors in your mind and ask yourself – what opportunities do I face every day to be benevolent?

Bushido is a way of life and can’t simply be checked in and out at the dojo door. Nitobe urges us, “The cultivation of tender feelings breeds considerate regard for the sufferings of others.” We must work at it constantly – especially in today’s culture that drives us to focus only on ourselves.
On a scale of 1 to 10, low to high, how would you rate your level of benevolence overall? Does it vary depending on what life situation you’re in? Is it easy for you to be selfless? Has anyone ever been benevolent to you when you didn’t deserve it? Do you see the suffering around you or do you turn your eyes from it? Think of what you can do to increase your own benevolence level. Think of someone you know who seems to always see where there is need and suffering. Think of someone you know who is overly selfish. How can you strive to cultivate mercy toward others and selflessness in yourself?

Cristine Warring, AKMS Sedan

UPCOMING EVENTS

AMERICAN KARATE BELT TEST
Saturday, April 9th, 2011

WOMENS SELF DEFENSE
Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm
MAY 3rd THROUGH THE 31st
American Karate is proud to offer the community this free event. Join us as Tommy Williams and his female staff of black belts share with you what you need to know to stay safe.
Be proactive - and never be the victim.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS
Pam Johansen-Topeka Kansas

Shalee Mog 11-12 Intermediate
1st Place Team Kata w/Taty Huhn
2nd Place Weapons
4th Place individual Kata
1st Place Sparring

Tatyana Huhn 11-12 Intermediate
1st Place Team Kata w/Shalee Mog
1st Place Weapons Kata
4th Place Sparring

Shayla Johnson 6-Under Intermediate
1st Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

NEW STUDENTS

Keilon Decou

Cody Ringwald
Gold Stripe Belt

St. Jude Children's Hospital Karate Tournament

2011-03-26T09:23:00.006-05:00

Karate Tournament Results

Shalee Mog 11-12 Intermediate
1st Place Team Kata w/Taty Huhn
2nd Place Weapons
4th Place individual Kata
1st Place Sparring

Tatyana Huhn 11-12 Intermediate
1st Place Team Kata w/Shalee Mog
1st Place Weapons Kata
4th Place Sparring

Shayla Johnson 6-Under Intermediate
1st Place Kata
1st Place Sparring

MID AMERICA OPEN

St. Jude Children's Hospital Karate Tournament 2011

Saturday, March 26th, 2011
Pam Johansen

Topeka, KS

Promotions

2011-03-16T09:30:00.001-05:00

March 2011

LiL' DRAGON PROMOTIONS
Cody Ringwald-Gold Stripe

Promotions

2011-03-07T23:21:00.000-06:00

February 2011

LiL' DRAGON PROMOTIONS
Ainsley Atkinson-Green Stripe
Alex Johnson-Purple Stripe
Nicholas Cartraway-Purple Stripe

Missouri Valley Open Tournament

2011-03-01T08:50:00.000-06:00

MISSOURI VALLEY OPEN TOURNAMENT
Saturday, March 19

Tournament Director: John Goertz
Holy Cross Lutheran Church
600 N. Greenwich Road
Wichita, Kansas
(316) 516-4101 Ksseibukan@yahoo.com

View Larger Map

March 2011 Newsletter

2011-03-01T08:03:00.012-06:00

TUITION AND MEMBERSHIP CHANGES

Effective June 1st 2011 tuition and membership fees will increase. Keep in mind that you can lock in your current tuition by purchasing a "Lifetime Membership". This membership has always been optional and the purchase of a Lifetime Membership will lock in your current rates for the life of the school. Lil’ Dragon and college programs are exempt from lifetime memberships therefore on new memberships on and after June 1st will be affected. Yearly programs will change as follows.

Lil' Dragon's...........12 months @ $50.00
Lil' Dragon's.............6 months @ $55.00
Lil' Dragon's............Family (X2)...$90.00

College Students.........................$30.00

Regular Rates........12 months @ $65.00
Regular Rates..........6 months @ $70.00
Regular Rates........Family (X2)..$110.00
Regular Rates........Family (X3)..$130.00
Regular Rates........Family (X4)..$165.00

Lifetime Membership (Regular karate only) $50.00

BULLYING & YOUTH SELF DEFENSE

Bullying has become an epidemic with our youth during and after school. The prevalence of bullying and harassment in America’s schools indicate that students who experience harassment are more likely to miss classes and can impact a student’s ability to learn. Teens report that they have been verbally or physically harassed or assaulted during the past year because of their perceived or actual appearance, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression, race/ethnicity, disability or religion. The majority of students who experience harassment in school, regardless of demographics or reasons for the harassment, never report these incidents of harassment to teachers or other school personnel. Although most teachers report that they would feel comfortable intervening if they observed harassment and many say they frequently have intervened, one in ten (10%) students who do not report these incidents don’t do so because they believe teachers or staff don’t do anything or are powerless to improve the situation. At American Karate we do not condone fighting unless absolutely necessary. We have a “three strikes and you’re out” rule. This means that if you are being bullied or assaulted you are to tell your teacher immediately and then tell your parents. It is the parent’s responsibility to contact the school system to find out what is being done and informing the teacher or principal that you are taking martial arts for self defense, strike one! The next time you are harassed or assaulted you must do the same, strike two!! The third time you are within your right to defend yourself, strike three!!! It is a harsh reality but keep in mind that even though you are defending yourself, you are still subject to policies of the public school system in regards to disciplinary action for fighting at school.

UPCOMING EVENTS

KANSAS SUPER FIGHTS
Tournament Director: Sandra Byrd
Saturday, March 19
McPherson Community Building
122 East Marlin
McPherson, Kansas
620-241-9019
pump_flex_kick@yahoo.com

MISSOURI VALLEY OPEN
Tournament Director: John Goertz
Saturday, March 19
Holy Cross Lutheran Church
600 N. Greenwich Road
Wichita, Kansas
(316) 516-4101
Ksseibukan@yahoo.com

ANNUAL PHOTO DAY
Our Annual Photo Day will be Saturday, March 19th at the karate school. Wheeler Photography will be at the school to take group and individual photos. Please be available for the annual group photo which will be at 10:00 that morning. After the group photo stay around for individual photos or photos with your classmates.

LIFESKILLS IN THE MARTIAL ARTS

Your children have a front row seat while you manage your home, do the laundry, make family meals, grocery shop, clothing shop, and pay bills. Many skills you teach with purpose and many more you teach by your actions. Life is full of twists, turns, and bends in the road. Parents want to raise their children to have the character, sense of humor, and grace to handle all situations they will encounter. In addition, parents want to prepare their children to function and live outside of the home. Lifeskills are just one aspect of the martial arts that we try to teach and instill into our students. The martial arts are much more than kicking and punching. Respect for oneself and others, integrity and compassion can be the difference between using the martial arts for bullying or truly defending yourself or coming to the aid of someone else using the minimum amount of force necessary.

Integrity--Exhibiting the highest moral, ethical and legal standards.
   * Doing the right thing-even when no one else is looking.

Teamwork--Placing a group or the teams success over personal success.
   * Gladly pitching in to help, regardless of whose job it is.

Trust/Respect--Seeing and believing in the good intentions of others. Interacting with others in a way that makes them feel valued.
   * Being polite and true to one’s word.

Care/Compassion--Demonstrating kindness, concern and empathy.
   * Exhibiting genuine concern for others.

Ownership/Accountability--Taking personal responsibility for one’s work, actions and feelings.
   * Accepting responsibility for and learning from mistakes.

8th ANNUAL SALT CITY CLASSIC

American Karate & Martial Science Hutchinson and Sedan attended the 8th Annual Salt City classic with twenty-two student competitors. Everyone placed with either first, second or third place trophy’s and fourth place medals. Ten of our students placed first in their respective kata divisions and had an opportunity to compete in various grand champion rounds. We brought home three grand champion awards and the top school award with the most students in attendance.

Shayla Johnson-1st 6-Under Kata, 3rd 7-8 Sparring
Woodly Yoder-1st 7-8 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring
Leah Bently-2nd 7-8 Novice kata, 4th Sparring
Barrett Yoder-4th 7-8 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring
Ian Ward-4th 7-8 Kata, 4th 7-8 Sparring
Jolea Wheeler-2nd 7-8 Int. Kata, 4th Sparring
Levi Geesling-3rd 7-8 Int. Kata, 3rd Sparring
Jaden Roggow-1st 9-10 Novice Kata, 3rd Sparring
Kristin Stowers-1st 9-10 Novice Kata, 1st Sparring
Nolan Clarke-1st 9-10 Int. Kata, 1st Sparring
Kaili Stowers-2nd 11-12 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring
Taty Huhn-1st 11-12 Int. Kata, 1st sparring
Becca Zimmerman-13-14 3rd Novice Kata, 2nd Sparring
Levi-4th 13-14 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring
Elliott DeWitt-4th 13-14 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring
Jordan Julian-1st Adv. Kata, 2nd Sparring
Lourdes Albert-1st 18-35 Novice Kata, 1st Sparring
Jeff Geesling-2nd 18-35 Novice Kata, 2nd Sparring
Dan Dewitt-1st 35-Over Kata, 1st 18-35 Sparring
Lori Francis-1st 35-Over Kata
Kathy Marquez-1st 35-Over Int. Kata, 1st Sparring
Missing: Annie Francis and Alyssa Francis

Kata Grand Champions
Shayla Johnson, 5-8 Underbelt
Jordan Julian, 13-17 Underbelt
Kathy Marquez, Adult Underbelt

NEW STUDENTS

Colton

Joshua

Tanner

8th Salt City Classic Tournament

2011-02-26T16:21:00.007-06:00

Karate Tournament Results

American Karate & Martial Science Hutchinson and Sedan attended the 8th Annual Salt City classic with twenty-two student competitors. Everyone placed with either first, second or third place trophy’s and fourth place medals. Ten of our students placed first in their respective kata divisions and had an opportunity to compete in various grand champion rounds. We brought home three grand champion awards and the top school award with the most students in attendance.

Shayla Johnson-1st 6-Under Kata, 3rd 7-8 Sparring

Woodly Yoder-1st 7-8 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring

Leah Bently-2nd 7-8 Novice kata, 4th Sparring

Barrett Yoder-4th 7-8 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring

Ian Ward-4th 7-8 Kata, 4th 7-8 Sparring

Jolea Wheeler-2nd 7-8 Int. Kata, 4th Sparring

Levi Geesling-3rd 7-8 Int. Kata, 3rd Sparring

Jaden Roggow-1st 9-10 Novice Kata, 3rd Sparring

Kristin Stowers-1st 9-10 Novice Kata, 1st Sparring

Nolan Clarke-1st 9-10 Int. Kata, 1st Sparring

Kaili Stowers-2nd 11-12 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring

Taty Huhn-1st 11-12 Int. Kata, 1st sparring

Becca Zimmerman-13-14 3rd Novice Kata, 2nd Sparring

Levi-4th 13-14 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring

Elliott DeWitt-4th 13-14 Novice Kata, 4th Sparring

Jordan Julian-1st Adv. Kata, 2nd Sparring

Lourdes Albert-1st 18-35 Novice Kata, 1st Sparring

Jeff Geesling-2nd 18-35 Novice Kata, 2nd Sparring

Dan Dewitt-1st 35-Over Kata, 1st 18-35 Sparring

Lori Francis-1st 35-Over Kata

Kathy Marquez-1st 35-Over Int. Kata, 1st Sparring

Missing: Annie Francis and Alyssa Francis

Kata Grand Champions

Shayla Johnson, 5-8 Underbelt

Jordan Julian, 13-17 Under belt

Kathy Marquez, Adult Underbelt

Saturday, February 26th, 2011

Tournament Director: Manuel Pina

Hutchinson, Kansas

Wichita Open Tournament

2011-02-26T16:18:00.003-06:00

WICHITA OPEN TOURNAMENT
Saturday, February 26th, 2011

Tournament Director: Mickey Gomez
Wichita, Kansas
Watch bulletin boards & website for updates

Kansas Elite Martial Arts Tournament

2011-02-12T16:16:00.004-06:00

Kansas Elite Martial Arts Tournament
Saturday, February 12, 2011

Tournament Director: Mike Colahan

Cedar Ridge Christian Church Gymnasium

8835 Lackman Rd., Lenexa, KS (Just south of 87th on Lackman)

Tournament entry Fee: $35.00 - 1 or all events

($45.00 day of Tournament)

CONTACT: Mike Colahan (913) 962-1640 or office@kansaskarate.com

View Larger Map

February 2011 Newsletter

2011-02-01T20:36:00.000-06:00

SCHOOL CLOSINGS

I appreciate the students and parents that have bore with me during the past month. Last month I co-instructed a self defense course for defensive tactics instructors. I had planned to drive back and forth to Winfield daily to conduct classes here but the weather was not very cooperative. Monday the 17th was a state holiday and Thursday the 20th USD-308 shut down all the schools due to the weather in which we were closed also. I want to remind everyone to read their handbooks and visit our website from time to time. There you will find our regularly scheduled closings as well as other information. If you have changed your email address or never provided us one please update your information as soon as possible.

SPARRING GEAR

Just a reminder that between two and three months of taking lessons you need to invest in sparring gear for you or your child. Everything that you need can be purchased here at the school. We know and understand that equipment is expensive. It is possible to purchase one set at a time. For me the most important piece is the foot gear. With the large number of youth in our schools I recommend that foot gear be purchased first followed by shin pads, head gear then hand gear. --Mr. Williams

KDOC DEFENSIVE TACTICS SCHOOL

Last month Mr. Williams spent a week at the Winfield Correctional Facility teaching a 40 hour course for self defense and defensive tactics instructors. Mr. Williams is one of the original Master Instructors for the state of Kansas. He was also a master firearms and defensive driving instructor. Mr. Williams has been putting on defensive tactics schools for twenty years. This year in April will be the last school he will instruct as he will retire from teaching, passing on the torch to the newly certified Master Instructors.

Master Instructors T. Robinson & Thomas Williams

SEVEN TRAINING PRECEPTS

Karate is a martial art. You must practice with the utmost seriousness from the very beginning. This means going beyond being simply diligent or sincere in your training. In every step, in every movement of your hand, you must imagine yourself facing an opponent with a drawn sword. Each and every punch must be made with your entire body behind it, with the feeling of destroying your opponent with a single blow. You must believe that if your punch fails, you will forfeit your own life.

Try to do exactly as you are taught without complaining or quibbling. Only those lacking zeal and unwilling to face up to themselves resort to quibbling. You cannot train through words. You must learn through your body. Enduring pain and anguish as you strive to discipline and polish yourself; you must believe that if others can do it, you can do it too.

When you are learning a new technique, practice it wholeheartedly until you truly understand it. Do not crave to know everything all at once. Practice painstakingly. Karate has many techniques and kata. Do not fall into the trap of thinking that because there is so much to learn, you should learn everything in a general way.

Don’t pretend to be a great master and don’t try to show off your strength. It is absurd that many of those practicing the martial arts feel they must make a show of being a martial artist. The tendency to act big or superior is usually most conspicuous among novices. By acting that way, they degrade and ruin the reputation of those seriously practicing martial arts.

Remember that you must always have a deep regard for courtesy, and must be respectful and obedient towards your seniors. There is no martial art that does not stress the importance of courtesy and respectful manners.

You must ignore the bad and adopt the good. When you observe the practice of others and discover something that you should learn, try to master it without hesitation. If you see a man sliding into idleness, examine yourself with strict eyes. When you see a man who is particularly good at kicking, ask yourself why his kick is so good. How can you learn to kick like that; how does your kick differ? In this manner, you should be able to devise a method to improve your kick. When you see a man that does not seem to improve, again ask yourself why. Maybe he does not train enough or maybe he lacks determination. Ask yourself, does not the same hold true for you?

Think of everyday life as karate training. Do not think of karate as only belonging to the dojo, nor only as a fighting method. The spirit of karate practice and the elements of training are applicable to each and every aspect of our daily lives. --Master Gichin Funakoshi - KARATE-DO NYUMON

UPCOMING EVENTS

KANSAS ELITE MARTIAL ARTS TOURNAMENT
Tournament Director: Mike Colahan
Saturday, February 12
Cedar Ridge Christian Church Gymnasium
8835 Lackman Rd., Lenexa, KS (Just south of 87th on Lackman)
Tournament entry Fee: $35.00 - 1 or all events
($45.00 day of Tournament)

SALT CITY CLASSIC TOURNAMENT
Tournament Director: Manuel Pina
Saturday, February 26
Hutchinson, Kansas
Watch bulletin boards & website for updates

WICHITA OPEN TOURNAMENT
Tournament Director: Mickey Gomez
Saturday, February 26
Wichita, Kansas
Watch bulletin boards & website for updates

MISSOURI VALLEY OPEN
Tournament Director: John Goertz
Saturday, March 19
Holy Cross Lutheran Church
600 N. Greenwich Road
Wichita, Kansas
(316) 516-4101 Ksseibukan@yahoo.com

January 2011 Newsletter

2011-01-01T15:34:00.002-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR

We at American Karate and Martial Science hope you had a very Merry Christmas and have a prosperous New Year. We are at one year mark this month in our new facility. We have managed to continue to grow. As always we appreciate your business and hope that you or your child is continuing to learn something whether that be about themselves or the martial arts.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

Last month Mr. Williams and Mrs. Gaeddert worked with sixty youth from the Boys and Girls Club at Avenue A School. The groups ran from K-12. After working on some basic techniques the youth group talked about leadership, life skills and manners.

NEW STUDENTS

Nick

Zack

Alexis

Zoey

VISITORS

During the the Christmas holiday week we had a special guest, Alexander Ecker from Saudi Arabia. He studies a style of Filipino martial arts. He has trained in judo but never studied karate before and wanted to do something different when he was on vacation. Alexander said that he would like to come back in the summer and train. We look forward to him returning.

Alexander

KARATE IN EARLY AMERICA

American servicemen drafted during World War II who volunteered for specialized training in Airborne Infantry and other special tactics groups were given instruction in basic martial arts techniques streamlined by the U.S. Government. The techniques were taken from various arts including, Shotokan, Jiu Jitsu, Kapap, Wu Shu, Wrestling, Judo, and American boxing. This was done after a long term study was undergone by the government to understand the mind of their enemies. They had spies in varying countries to undergo the training given to the average civilian upon entering the military. Upon returning to the United States the face of military training would be changed forever. Martial arts were not the only training methods that returned with these men. Specific endurance training and obstacle techniques were also brought back and analyzed to determine their values. After the evaluation of the martial methods brought back; specific componets were melded together into a basic combat arms course for direct combat soldiers. It allowed a basic skill set to be taught easily and memorized effectively into automatic response by newly acquired troops. Although this was not a comprehensive art itself; the incorporated techniques allowed for a well rounded hand to hand instruction that did not take years to master but only several weeks. The basis of the techniques used were on five principles of interaction and two set methods of combat. The two methods are "being attacked" and "attacking", the techniques usually involved direct immobilization techniques. The defense techniques exploit vulnerability areas such as Eyes, Groin, Neck and spine. The first strike capability revolves around initial first movement being ineffective but distracting and causing the opponent to retaliate, forcing the situation to turn into defense reaction leading to the before named striking points. This training was not complicated, but it was effective.

It is important to note that American servicemen serving in Japan and Okinawa after the conclusion of World War II were among the first Westerners to ever be exposed to Asian karate styles. Many put 1946 as the date of the first karate instruction in America when Robert Trias, a returning U.S. Navy vet, began teaching private lessons in Phoenix, Arizona. Other early teachers of karate in America were Bill Dometrich, a US Army serviceman who began his training in 1953, Ed Parker (a native Hawaiian and Coast Guard vet who earned a black belt in 1953), George Mattson (who began studying while stationed in Okinawa in 1956), Mike Foster a US Air Force serviceman who began studying in 1957, and Peter Urban (another Navy vet who started training in the late 1950s).

Kansas Superfights

2010-12-18T16:09:00.003-06:00

Karate Tournament Results
Taty Huhn
1st Int. Kata
2nd Int. Sparring

Saturday, December 18, 2010
Kansas Superfights
McPhereson, KS

About Us

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American Karate & Martial Science - About Us

Mission Statement: Our mission is to achieve Success through Excellence.

Striving for excellence is not a journey for superiority, competing with others or about outstripping someone. Excellence means being better tomorrow than you were yesterday. We achieve excellence by matching practice with potential.

Motto: Reach one, Teach one!

"In seeking wisdom, the first step is silence,
the second listening,
the third remembering,
the fourth practicing,
the fifth --- teaching others."

INTRODUCTION

Thomas Williams is the chief instructor and senior master of American Karate and Martial Science. He holds black belt ranks in several disciplines. His mission is to achieve excellence by matching hard work with potential. He believes that at any point in a persons life if you can reach one you can teach one. The physical and cultural arts are uniquely suited for the personal development of children and adults, stressing such values as respect, discipline, courage and integrity while also teaching goal-setting skills and instilling a positive work ethic. Psychological studies show that quality martial arts training improves the ability to focus, to concentrate, self-discipline, self-confidence, self-esteem, and the ability to manage stress. Martial arts also provide positive peer influence, pro-social activity and positive leadership from the instructors.

OUR SYSTEM

American Karate and Martial Science is an eclectic system of martial skills which should not be confused with or considered to be a newly created martial art. It is merely my perspectives, influences and strengths of the martial arts of TaeKwon-Do, GoJu, Kenpo and modern Arnis.

What I have learned from these schools of thought have been compiled, absorbed and distributed back to my students. Therefore, I can not claim to instruct my students in the classical forms of these martial arts. It is what I have given them. Although It may not be classical, it is traditional. Traditional because there is a method and philosophy of how the martial arts have been taught and how my students will instruct their students and so on. Remember, over a period of time, even traditions change. It is every instructors hope that any changes made are positive changes which will help and aid in the growth and development of his/her particular system.

Meet Thomas Williams, Chief Instructor

2010-12-16T13:27:00.007-06:00

Thomas Williams Two time

USA Hall of Fame Member and Ph.D.

2010 Martial Arts Master of the Year

Thomas Williams is the Chief Instructor and has been in the martial arts for over 35 years. He holds black belt ranks in several disciplines and is considered to be one of the top Law Enforcement trainers in Kansas when it comes to defensive tactics, reactive knife, and firearms.

Awards

1974 Outstanding Martial Artist Award Hutchinson Moo Duk Kwan Club
1975 Outstanding Martial Artist Award Hutchinson Moo Duk Kwan Club
1984-1985 Edition of Americas Who’s Who In American Martial Arts
1990 Graduate Executive Security International
1992 Karate International Magazine’s Who’s Who In The Martial Arts
1999 Action Martial Arts Who’s Who In The Martial Arts
2005 IMAF Manuel C. Pina Award for Excellence
2009 Inductee USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame
2009 Ph.D. University of Asian Martial Arts Study
2010 Inductee USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame
2010 Martial Arts Master of the Year
2011 Inductee IIMAA Hall of Fame

Memberships & Associations

Alliance Martial Arts Association
Midwest Brotherhood Karate Association
Midwest Karate Officials Association
Independent Martial Arts Federation
International Independent Martial Arts Association
United States Martial Arts Association

Related Accomplishments

Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center Firearms Instructor
Kansas Department of Corrections Firearms Instructor
Kansas Department of Corrections Master Defensive Tactics Instructor
Defensive Tactics Instructor
Mike Inay Reactive Knife Instructor
Department of Justice Defensive Tactics Instructor

Independent Martial Arts Federation

Thomas Williams, Kansas Representative
The Independent Martial Arts Federation provides rank and instructor recognition to martial artists from all disciplines that have found themselves without an instructor or the means to obtain regular promotions.

USA Martial Arts Hall Of Fame
The U.S.A. Martial Arts Hall of Fame was originally designed in the mid 1970’s as a service to Karate practitioners with the U.S.K.A. under co-creators Grand Master Robert Trias and Jim Thomas. During this period, there were no other ‘Hall of Fame’ types anywhere except the well-known Black Belt magazine's Black Belt Hall of Fame. After the passing of Grand Master Trias, student & co-creator Dr. Jim Thomas of the U.S.A. Martial Arts Hall of Fame decided to take this Hall of Fame to another level. In 1992, the all-new U.S.A. Martial Arts Hall of Fame began.

Thomas Williams, 2009 Inductee
USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame

Thomas Williams, 2009 Silver Life Award
30-40 years of Martial Service

Thomas Williams
2010 Martial Arts Master of the year

University Of Asian Martial Arts Study Ph.D. Program

The martial arts Alliance and USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame have been working on a PH.D. Program for tenured martial art instructors for almost a decade. The only way to be part of this program is to be an Inducted member of the U.S.A. Martial Arts ‘Hall of Fame’! Once you are part of the USA Martial Arts ‘Hall of Fame’ you’ve proven a standard of excellence. After the ‘Hall of Famer’ has been inducted he/she may choose to participate in the Ph.D. Program. Those interested must provide a Dissertation/Thesis that will be read and approved or disapproved by a Board of Directors. If approved, honorees are recognized as one of the best the industry of the Martial Arts offer! The Ph.D. program is not a traditional scholastic accredited degree that authorizes anyone to claim to be a medical doctor! This program defines you as one of the best in the martial arts industry! The Board of Directors consists of Martial Arts Masters and Grand Masters who are also Lawyers, Physicians, Science Doctors, Education Ph.D.’s etc….who volunteer their time as Board members.

Every city has unqualified martial art schools and teachers in them! Some should not be allowed to operate, but do! This feels like a ‘black eye’ to those qualified instructors who operate honorably! A master plumber with 10-15 years experience will make $50.00 to $100.00 per hour or more. Get an air-conditioning/heating person out to repair at $50.00/ $100.00 per hour or more! Hire an attorney…WOW!!!…Look, often times we are valued by our titles, proof of authentication etc….we might not be able to say we’re a medical doctor but we are as valid in what we do than some who are traditionally blessed with degrees and education! We have many, 20-30 plus years active teachers who have designed, dedicated, spent their world being who they are as teachers, leaders, instructors and more! We are equally as qualified in teaching martial arts, science and history as an educator. Thanks to organizations like EFC, NAPMA and MAIA we can continue our education of the martial arts by attending seminars on tuition, learning theory, fitness, sales, management and marketing. Not many understand the difference in what we have done in the martial arts world…the sacrifices, aches, injuries, developments and ideas it took to train and develop our students to be a more efficient and disciplined member of society with integrity and character.

Being a black belt in it self does not mean you are an instructor. Black belts from 2nd to 5th dans are referred to as sempei (senior grade). It is the sempei that set the example for the kohai (junior grade) to follow. More than simple seniority, sempai implies a relationship similar to mentoring. They are expected to assist the Chief Instructor with less experienced students. A kohai is expected to respect and follow the sempai, and the sempai in turn must guide, protect, and teach the kohai as best they can the rules and etiquette of the dojo. Black belts can achieve tested rank up to 5th dan and honored rank up to 8th with 9th and 10th reserved for the founder of an art or system or promotions to said rank by a board of review. It is at 5th dan and above that you hear the term “master” and “grand master”. Thanks to the Alliance and a few other organizations, those that have spent twenty plus years of their life teaching the martial arts can be honored with professorships and doctorates of the martial arts and sciences.

Thomas L. Williams, Ph.D.

American Karate & Martial Science

Thomas Williams Ph.D.
Asian Martial Arts Studies

Meet Our Black Belts

2010-12-13T08:45:00.014-06:00

	Sandra Price-Byrd is a 7th Degree black belt in American Karate and a 4th Degree in GoJu-Ryu. She is an assistant instructor to Mr. Williams as well as Chief instructor along with her husband Ricky Byrd at their own school in McPherson, Kansas. Sandra and Ricky put on the Kansas SuperFights and Showdown tournaments, Boxing and full contact matches.

	Marcia Dillon is a 4th Degree Black Belt in American Karate and assistant instructor to Mr. Williams. She also operates the American Karate Academy for Women.

	Jesse Pinkston is a 1st Degree Black Belt in Taekwon-Do and a 3rd Degree Black Belt in American Karate.

	Jean Gaeddert is a 5th Degree Black Belt. She assists Mr. Williams with the youth and adult classes.

	Shelli Matzek is a 4th Degree Black Belt in American Karate and a 3rd Degree in GoJu-Ryu.

	Wendy Brown is a 3rd Degree Black Belt.

Sam's All Star Karate Championships

2010-11-20T21:11:00.011-06:00

Karate Tournament Results
Best Uniform
Taty Huhn 1st
Tate Sazama 2nd

Musical Kata
JoLea Wheeler 1st Youth

Kata
Shayla Johnson 1st, 7-8 Int.
Jolea Wheeler 3rd, 8-9 Int
Taty Huhn 1st, 10-11 Int.
Tate Sazama 3rd, 10-11 Int.

Kumite
Shayla Johnson 1st, 6-7 Int.
Jolea Wheeler 1st, 7-8 Int
Taty Huhn 2nd, 10-11 Int.
Tate Sazaman 3rd, 10-11 Int.

U-TUG
Jolea Wheeler 3rd, 7 year old

Saturday, November 20, 2010
Sam's All Star Karate Championships
Inman Wellness Center
Inman Kansas
Contact: Sam or Jessica Price 620-669-9051

Adult Class ages 13+

2010-11-09T23:23:00.018-06:00

Adult Karate

American Karate & Martial Science Adult class has both men and women ages 18 to 50+. Classes are divided by belt rank into Adult Novice class (white and gold), Adult Intermediate class (Green - Purple), and Adult Advanced (Brown and Black).

Adult Karate students will learn:

- Honor
- Respect
- Self-discipline
- Self-confidence
- Positive attitude
- Integrity
- Goal-setting
- Positive work ethic - Courage
- Leadership
- Decision making

- Coordination & balance
- Strength & stamina
- Better flexibility
- Self-defense
- Stances
- Blocks
- Punches
- Kicks
- Basic techniques
- Combinations
- Kata
- Sparring (kumite) is conducted by
Mr. Williams in a controlled and
safe environment.

What happens in the Adult Novice class?

The Adult Novice (open to all belt ranks) start by lining up by rank and then a period of meditation. Next students warm-up (jumping jacks) and then stretch. Adult Novice may be asked to do a variety of activities in a given class period. Some of those activities include: conditioning, basic techniques (stances, blocks, punches, and kicks), single and combination of basic techniques with a partner, targets, and bags, kata (prearranged basic defensive and offensive techniques), self-defense with a partner, step sparring (without physical contact) and sparring (physical contact using protective gear). The class ends with another period of meditation. Guests may watch the Adult Novice class from the seating area (children must be supervised).

Why are high ranked belts in the Adult Novice class?

Many times higher ranked students will "train down" and attend the novice class. This allows novice students to "see" the expectations and discipline required of higher ranks. (Higher ranked students may "train down" and attend the novice class, but novice students may not attend the intermediate and advanced classes.) It is important that students learn and apply proper basic technique, because the "basics" are the key to later karate development.

What happens in the Adult Intermediate & Advanced classes?

The Adult Intermediate and Adult Advanced student perform many of the same activities as the Adult Novice class, and also work on rank specific (intermediate and advanced) activities, including: step sparring, kata, self defense, break falls, and weapons (bo, kamas, and sai). (Weapons training at American Karate & Martial Science is open only to ranks purple belt and higher. Mr. Williams determines when a student has the karate skills and techniques and responsibility required for weapons training.)

Before Adult Karate class

Upon entering the dojo (training hall) all students will give courtesy by coming to attention by placing their arms by their side and bring both feet together and bow from the waist. Adult Karate students are expected to display respect to the dojo, students, and instructors. Prior to class Adult students will line up their shoes and gear bags, and then bow into the dojo (training area).

Once the student changes into their gi, they should proceed to the training area and warm up by doing light cardio, dynamic stretches, or warm up by practicing Kata or bag work. Kumite or sparring is not permitted without the permission of the instructor. When the Instructor comes into the dojo courtesy should be given, and the student should then continue to warm up. When class is called to order the Instructor will say, "Line up!" Students will line up according to belt rank with the senior belt on the right. All students will then come to attention and give courtesy as instructed.

Uniform & Belt

Adult Karate students will wear a black gi (uniform) and start with a white belt. Male students normally do not wear a t-shirt under their gi top. They may wear a black undershirt. The female students must always wear an under garment. They may wear a black t-shirt or one that matches the color of their obi (belt).

After acquiring the proper skills (mental and physical) students may have the opportunity to "belt test". Adult Karate students may advance through the ranks of gold, green, purple, brown, black.

Belt tests

Belt tests at American Karate & Martial Science are open ONLY to students that are ready and are individually identified by Mr. Williams. Student progress is evaluated by Mr. Williams during regular class time, and when a student has mastered the karate skills and techniques the student will receive an invitation for the upcoming belt test (it is inappropriate to ask, or suggest a student is ready to belt test). Belt tests only occur 2-3 times per year and occur outside of regularly schedule class (normally on a Friday for Adult students).

Adult Class ages 13+ Photos

2010-11-09T23:22:00.001-06:00

Youth Class ages 6-12

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Youth Karate is for girls and boys.

American Karate & Martial Science Youth class is almost half girls and half boys ranging from ages 6 to 12. Classes are divided by belt rank into Youth Novice class (white and gold) and Youth Intermediate class (Jr. green - Jr. black).

Youth Karate students will learn:

- Honor
- Respect
- Self-discipline
- Self-confidence
- Positive attitude
- Integrity
- Goal-setting
- Positive work ethic
- Courage
- Leadership
- Decision making

What happens in the Youth Novice class?

The Youth Novice (open to all belt ranks) start by lining up by rank and then a period of meditation. Next students warm-up (jumping jacks) and then stretch. Youth Novice may be asked to do a variety of activities in a given class period. Some of those activities include: conditioning, basic techniques (stances, blocks, punches, and kicks), single and combination of basic techniques with a partner, targets, and bags, kata (prearranged basic defensive and offensive techniques), self-defense with a partner, step sparring (without physical contact) and sparring (physical contact using protective gear). The class ends with another period of meditation. Parents may watch the Youth Novice class from the seating area.

Why are high ranked belts in the Youth Novice class?

Many times higher ranked students will "train down" and attend the novice class. This allows novice students to "see" the expectations and discipline required of higher ranks. (Higher ranked students may "train down" and attend the novice class, but novice students may not attend the intermediate class.) It is important that students learn and apply proper basic technique, because the "basics" are the key to later karate development.

What happens in the Youth Intermediate class?

The Youth Intermediate (only Jr. green belts and higher) student perform many of the same activities as the Youth Novice class, and also work on rank specific (intermediate and advanced) activities, including: step sparring, kata, self defense, break falls, and weapons (bo, kamas, and sai). (Weapons training at American Karate & Martial Science is open only to ranks Jr. purple belt and higher. Mr. Williams determines when a student has the karate skills and techniques and responsibility required for weapons training.)

Before Youth Karate class

Upon entering the dojo (training hall) all students will give courtesy by coming to attention by placing their arms by their side and bring both feet together and bow from the waist. Youth Karate students are expected to display respect to the dojo, students, and instructors. Prior to class Youth students will line up their shoes and gear bags, and then bow into the dojo (training area).

Once the student changes into their gi, they should proceed to the training area and warm up by doing light cardio, dynamic stretches, or warm up by practicing Kata or bag work. There is to be absolutely no horseplay, or joking around in the Dojo. Kumite or sparring is not permitted without the permission of the instructor.

Any activity prior to class starting that may be considered disturbing to the atmospheric conditions of the Dojo is not permitted. When the Instructor comes into the dojo courtesy should be given, and the student should then continue to warm up. When class is called to order the Instructor will say, "Line up!" Students will line up according to belt rank with the senior belt on the right. All students will then come to attention and give courtesy as instructed. Students are to show respect for each other, in and out of the Dojo and the instructor at all times.

Uniform & Belt

Youth Karate students will wear a black gi (uniform) and start with a white belt. Male students normally do not wear a t-shirt under their gi top. They may wear a black undershirt. The female students must always wear an under garment. They may wear a black t-shirt or one that matches the color of their obi (belt).

After acquiring the proper skills (mental and physical) students may have the opportunity to "belt test". Youth Karate students may advance through the ranks of gold, Jr. green, green, Jr. purple, purple, Jr. brown, brown, Jr. black. Youth should be 16 years old to be eligible for an adult Black Belt.

Youth Karate students will eventually move into the adult karate program. This usually happens around 13 years old.

Belt tests

Belt tests at American Karate & Martial Science are open ONLY to students that are ready and are individually identified by Mr. Williams. Student progress is evaluated by Mr. Williams during regular class time, and when a student has mastered the karate skills and techniques the student will receive an invitation for the upcoming belt test (it is inappropriate to ask, or suggest a student is ready to belt test). Belt tests only occur 2-3 times per year and occur outside of regularly schedule class (normally on a Saturday for Youth students).

Youth Intermediate Class Photos

2010-11-09T14:20:00.000-06:00

Youth Intermediate - Students ranked Jr. Purple Belts and higher
may have the opportunity to train using weapons such as the Bo.

Youth Intermediate - Practice accuracy and control

Youth Intermediate - Martial arts combinations

Youth Intermediate - Basic techniques always
remain a key focus (Front Kick)

Youth Intermediate - practice as a team and individually

Youth Novice Class Sparring Photos

2010-11-09T14:18:00.007-06:00

Youth Novice - Meditation before each class

Youth Novice - Sparring in a controlled environment
allows students to develop confidence

Youth Novice - Higher ranked belts "work" with
lower ranks, so they can practice karate sparring

Youth Novice - Fighting stance

Youth Novice - Have fun

Lil' Dragons Class ages 4-6

2010-11-09T08:29:00.010-06:00

Lil' Dragons
Much more than a martial arts class

Our Lil' Dragons Karate program develop safety skills, life skills and martial arts techniques.We want our students to grow up to be well mannered citizens.

The Lil’ Dragons will:

Learn to share
Develop a sense of independence
Develop speech and language
Promote physical strength
Promote coordination and stamina
Build fundamental learning skills
Follow directions
Problem solve
Show self-control
Act respectfully

What happens during the 45 minute Lil' Dragons class?

(Prior to class Lil' Dragons will line up their shoes and bow into the Dojo.)
The Lil' Dragons start by lining up by rank and then a short period of meditation. Next students warm-up (running) and then stretch. Lil' Dragons will learn basic karate techniques through skill building activities. Some of the various skill building activities include: karate drills (stances, blocks, punches, and kicks), obstacle courses, flags, and working the bags and targets. The class ends with another short period of meditation. (The Lil' Dragons do not participate in sparring.) Parents may watch the Lil' Dragons class from the seating area.

Lil' Dragons Uniform & Belt

Lil' Dragons will wear a Lil' Dragon uniform and start with a white belt. After acquiring the proper skill they will advance through the ranks of gold, green, purple, brown, and black stripes that run down the middle of their white belt. Lil' Dragons do not earn solid colored belts.

Lil' Dragons will eventually graduate into the youth karate program. They will start over at white belt and work their way through the solid colored belt ranks.

Lil' Dragons Class Photos

2010-11-09T08:11:00.045-06:00

Lil' Dragons - Group photo

Lil' Dragons - Meditation

Lil' Dragons - Front Kick

Lil' Dragons - Learn proper technique (Side Kick)

Lil' Dragons - Learn to chamber kicks

Lil' Dragons - Back Kick

Lil' Dragons - Learn Blocks

Promotions

2010-11-06T21:02:00.005-05:00

November 2010

Gold Belt

Jeff Geesling
Kaile Stowers
Kristin Stowers

Green Belt
Natalie Kolarik
Shayla Johnson
Levi Geesling
JoLea Wheeler

Jr. Purple Belt
Nolan Clarke
Payten Mayes

Purple Belt
Shalee Mog
Tatyana Huhn
Tate Sazama

AKMS-Sedan KS

2010-11-06T16:40:00.000-05:00

American Karate & Martial Science - AKMSA-Sedan KS

Cristine Warring - Black belt and

student instructor at AKMS-Sedan KS

Cristine Warring holds a brown belt in Shotokan Karate and black belt in American Karate & Martial Science. She is a student instructor under the supervision of Mr. Williams. Cristine Warring actively competes in kata, weapons kata, and kumite at Karate Tournaments around the state.

Contact Cristine Warring at 620.249.7780 or warringc@gmail.com

AKMS-Sedan KS Photo Gallery (Click here)

AKMS-Sedan KS Photos

2010-11-06T09:43:00.000-05:00

Thomas Williams & Cristine Warring kumite (fighting) at
Dave Estate's American Freestyle Tournament

Mr. Williams, Ms. Gaeddert, and Ms. Warring with new Gold Belts

Jeremy Monday - 2010 Outstanding Student Award

November 2010 Newsletter

2010-11-01T22:34:00.005-05:00

WORLD MARTIAL ARTS DAY

Our students participated in the "Kicking in the USA" World Record Kick-A-Thon as part of World Martial Arts Day on Saturday, October 16, 2010. Mayor Cindy Proett and Governor Mark Parkinson proclaimed October 16th as World Martial Arts Day in Hutchinson and the State of Kansas. This fundraiser was sponsored by Hopeful Tomorrow, a national children’s charity. Although we fell short of our goal everyone had a great time. We totaled 25,486 kicks. Taty Huhn raised the most in pledges and had the highest number of kicks at 2,454. Woodly Yoder kicked non-stop for an hour. Great job Woodly!

Local television news station KWCH Channel 12 covered the event.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MONTH

The Department of Justice and the Office on Violence Against Women joins advocates, survivors , and communities around the country to observe October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This is a moment to elevate the conversation so the majority of Americans will understand that violence against women and girls is unacceptable.

Violence against women is the seed to so many other forms of violence. This shift in our conversation must happen because violence against women continues to have devastating effects on entire communities. When children witness violence in the home, those children are impacted by what they have seen and often experienced themselves. If we want to tackle violence in our country, in our communities, then we must address the violence that occurs in so many homes. And all members of the community must be engaged to end the violence.

We at American Karate & Martial Science observe and recognize Domestic Violence month every year by putting on a free self defense workshop. This year we started with over twenty participants. We will be having a follow up session in May which will be more intense and physical.

KARATE NI SENTE NASHI
"In Karate, never attack first"

Master Funakoshi used the term "karate" in stating this principle because he was expressing this philosophy to karate students, but this principle--like all of his principles--applies to life in general. In other words, one could say, "In life, never attack first."

Technically, karate is a fighting art. It involves kicking, punching and blocking. But this is only the physical side of karate. What we are training to do, really, is to change ourselves on the inside, so that we know how to avoid violent situations. When we train, the first move we make from the ready position is a blocking technique. This reinforces the philosophy of nonviolence and never attacking first. Rather than participate in violence, it is always better to stop it, or avoid it. Rather than initiate a conflict, it is always better to be prepared to react to it, to end it.

--Teruyuki Okazaki

COMING EVENTS

Adult and Youth Belt tests
Operation Christmas Child (Shoe box gift). Go to www.samaritanspurse.org/video/
Enchilada Fundraiser
Sam Price's All Star Karate Championships

SPARRING GEAR COMBO SET

We are offering several combo specials for the holidays like this sparring combo for $99.00. The new gift book also has over a hundred new items. Drop by a place an order today.

NEW STUDENT

James Francis

Student Photographs

If you have any digital or hard copy photos of any of our students please email copies to Mr. Williams so that he can place them on the website or put on the slide show during special activities.

Promotions

2010-10-23T23:23:00.003-05:00

November 2010

Cristine Warring-Black Belt
Jordan Julian-Brown Belt

New Black Belt Cristine & New Brown Belt Jordan

Dojo Etiquette

2010-10-17T21:56:00.000-05:00

The way of the empty hand begins and ends with courtesy and respect. This is, and should be evident throughout the Dojo for any student that takes notice. A student must first and always remember that they are being given the gift of knowledge of the martial arts. A student must also understand that there is no amount of money that can repay their instructor for this knowledge that will be passed to them. The fees are for your private personal membership to belong to the Dojo. Fees are also for the space used, maintenance and utilities of the facility in which to train. In other words, what an instructor has to offer is for free!!! In the classical schools each student must be accepted by the instructor as a candidate for membership to receive this gift of Martial Arts, and may be asked to leave at any time if they show disrespect or misuse the knowledge they have been given. The student candidate is expected to come to class ready and eager to learn, with the proper equipment and attire.

Upon entering the dojo (training hall) all students will give courtesy by coming to attention by placing their arms by their side and bring both feet together and bow from the waist. Students will then proceed to the dressing room and change into their gi (uniform). Male students normally do not wear a t-shirt under ther gi top. They may wear a black under garment. The female students must always wear an under garment. They may wear a black t-shirt or one that matches the color of their obi (belt). Once the student changes into their gi, they should proceed to the training area and warm up by doing light cardio, dynamic stretches. Once you have entered the Dojo there is to be absolutely no horseplay, or joking around. If class has not yet begun, you may begin stretching or do some warm up on your own by practicing your Kata or bag work. Kumite or sparring is not permitted without the permission of the instructor.

You come to the dojo to work not to socialize or to become socially involved with other students. Maintain your respect for each other, in and out of the Dojo and your instructor at all times and get the most out of the time you spend there. Students are to come to class and be ready to learn, not to talk and disturb others.

Thomas L. Williams, Chief Instructor

American Karate & Martial Science

Student Transfers

2010-10-17T21:02:00.001-05:00

How we handle students from other systems

We live in an age of upward mobility. With that comes the opportunity for transfer. Not just to a new department or division but facility as well. We often find ourselves moving from town to town, city to city, or state to state. For the martial arts practitioner this means uprooting yourself or being uprooted. If you love the martial arts this means that you will have to find another dojo to train in.

This could cause some minor set backs or major decision making, especially if you can not relocate to a school that provides instruction in the same or similar style or system! Traditionally if you found yourself facing this type of change you would also be facing the fact that you may have to start all over as a white belt in this new style. It is not uncommon for a “classical” practitioner of a Korean style to have to begin all over in a Japanese or Chinese style or vice-versa. Sometimes even within a particular style you may have to begin at the novice level. This is to be expected. In my opinion, to humble one’s self to this builds character. The instructor would see this in you and you would find yourself advancing up the ladder in this new style or system in no time!

There is also another option for those that find themselves in this predicament. American style martial arts schools often called “Freestyle”. Most American style martial artists come from several classical martial arts backgrounds. These instructors have a well rounded knowledge and/or experience in classical art forms. With this understanding they will be able to decide whether or not you need to start at the beginning, drop down one belt in rank or maintain what you currently have.

But what if I’m already at black belt rank?

There are also instructor options here as well. Regardless if you come from a classical or eclectic background you may still have to start all over from the beginning. If you have been out of it for 5 years or so you can pretty much bet that you will start over. If you have maintained your studies and are merely a black belt, the instructor may chose to allow you to maintain your belt and learn his system from the beginning.

What if I have Dan (degree) rank on my black belt?

The same applies. Be prepared to at least start over with a clean black belt. It is not about taking away from you what you have already earned. It is about humbling yourself to the learning of something new or different.

Thomas L. Williams, Chief Instructor

American Karate & Martial Science

Rank and Instructor Certification

2010-10-17T21:01:00.000-05:00

In many systems that have a rank system that uses colored belts, nidan or 2nd degree black belt indicates instructor level. In the American Karate and Martial Science system we separate the black belt rank from the instructor rank. Therefore a Master Instructor may not necessarily mean a master level black belt in martial skill. Although it is the responsibility of junior ranking black belts to assist in teaching classes, not everyone aspires to be a martial arts instructor.

It is not our mission to produce instructors. Our mission is to teach quality martial education. We want our students to know and be confident that they can defend themselves if the need ever arose. We want to develop a students confidence, character, mind, and body. It is our position that teaching is an “old mans” game. That is to say that it’s for one who has spent many years honing their craft in the dojo and or by testing their skills in tournament competition and after having tested their metal, he/she desires to give something back by way of teaching what they know really works. For those that have the desire to teach we offer the following certifications.

Certified Instructor: 1000 hours of supervised instruction.

Assistant Instructor: Completion of a Certified Instructor’s Certification and may teach unsupervised under a Chief instructor.

Instructor: Has your own club, school or 5 years at black belt rank, instructs under a Senior, Chief or Master instructor.

Senior Instructor: Has your own club, school or 10 years at black belt rank instructs under a Chief or Master instructor.

Chief Instructor: Owner of a club or school. 15 years at black belt rank.

Master Instructor: Owner of a club or school. 20 years at black belt rank. 5th degree black belt or higher.

World Martial Arts Day Kick-A-Thon

2010-10-16T23:13:00.003-05:00

Family Tree

2010-10-15T22:03:00.001-05:00

American Freestyle Tournament Results

2010-09-18T21:10:00.002-05:00

September 2010

Jeff Geesling
1st Adult Novice Kata
2nd Adult Novice Kumite

Shayla Johnson
1st Youth Int. Kata
1st Youth Int. Kumite

Levi Geesling
2nd Youth Int. Kata
2nd Youth Int. Kumite

Taty Huhn
1st 10-11 Youth Int. Kata
1st 10-11 Youth Int. Kumite

Cristine Warring
1st Adult Adv. Kata
1st Adult Adv. Kumite