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BUDOKAN BLACK BELT REGISTER © 1960 - 2024 RICHARD SALMON RAY RYAN 1963* DUNLOP PAUL 1964* DERRICK WRIDGWAY 1965 FRANK VAN RENSBURG 1966* DAVID PASSMORE 1966 JOHN SINDEN 1966 STAN MAHER 1966 WHITEY POLLETT 1966* RONNIE MILLS 1966 WILLIE RIDDEX 1967* VICTOR SYKES 1967* JON WYATT 1967 MICHAEL GETAZ 1967 HERMAN VAN NIEKERK 1968 AUTREY WILKE 1968 LEO LIPINSKI 1968* THEO WOLMARANS 1968 HUGH SADLER 1968 RICKY MARCUS 1968 COLIN MATHESON 1968 BOB SIMMS 1968* STEVEN MANTHEE 1968 TREVOR WISHART 1968 DOUGGIE KNOX 1968* JONATHAN GEVISSER 1968 BILL SUTHERLAND 1968 JAN STEENKAMP 1968 DUP DUPLESSIS 1968 STAN HART 1969 HENRY WOLMARANS 1969 FRANK VAN NIEKERK 1969 BILL COLEMAN 1969 PAUL DE BEER 1969 CLIFF LOWRY-ROSS 1969* LOEK LATAGAN 1970 DON PEDDIE 1970 KELVIN FORDER 1970 MIKE HERSHOWITZ 1970 CORRIE SCHOEMAN 1970 FRIK WILLEMSE 1970 DAVE WILLIAMS 1970 FRITZ SCHREIBER 1970 KURT VAN DUYN 1970 GRAHAM MAXWELL 1970 PADDY CARSTENS 1970 NICK STAMATIS 1970 KEN LEE 1970 CLIFF LAWRIE-ROSS 1970* CAS PRETORIOUS 1971* LUZETTE HERBST 1971 TERRY BOSCH 1971 DAVE MILLAR 1972 LARRY GORGE 1972 TREVOR STEADMAN 1972 DAVID WILLS 1973 ROBER MAUVISE 1973 BRAD SHEPPHARD 1974 CRAIG JONES 1974 JOHAN COETZEE 1974 AMADEO NUNES 1974 GREG FORDER 1974 VIVIAN PLATT 1974 JAMIE NOOHAN 1975 BRIAN VAN DER MERWE 1975 BERYL BATTY 1976 TOY MARROT 1976 MARIO STEFANO 1976 MICHAEL BOND 1976* BRETT VAN ZYL 1976 JEAN CLAUDE LATTER 1976 SANDI GROOM 1976* JESSIE MOODLEY 1976 CHRIS ELLIS 1976 JEROME GUMEDE 1976 WILSON GCABA 1976 PAUL GLADMAN 1976 ANDRE LABOUCHARDIERE 1976 BRETT VAN ZYL 1976 MARION TINKLER 1976 ROCKY PRETORIOUS 1976 NEIL CRAFFORD 1976* HENNIE VAN DER MERWE 1976 * MICK MARTELL 1976 PAUL BUDDEN 1977 PETER BUSH 1977 HAMEED KAZEROONI 1977 ALAN HAIG 1977 ROY ESTABROOK 1977 ALAN DAVIES 1977 TONY HOPPER 1978 MARGARET ROGERS 1978 ROBERT ROHREY 1978 PETER MORLEY 1979 ROY MUSHENS 1979 MICHAEL SCHOFIELD 1977 ALLAN PERT 1979 ROBBIE ROWE 1979 MAHMOOD FAHKRO 1979 DEREK FLYNN 1979 GRANT PRETORIOUS 1979 HERBIE EDWARDS 1979* MALCOLM SEGAR 1979 JOHN STEENHUIZEN 1979 RAY STRODL 1979 CAROL STRODL 1979 JEAN RESCH 1980* PAUL SMITH 1980 DAVID WATERS 1980 KEITH WRIGHT 1980 PHIL NOKES 1980 JOHN HEGARTY 1980 SHANE COLEMAN 1981 JULIE TULLIS 1981* TONY GREEN 1982 SUSIE WALTERS 1982 KOBUS GROBLER 1982 IAN CARD 1982 * SUHAIL ISLAM 1982 JOHN HITCHENS 1982 GAIL COETZEE 1982 ARUN SUBBIAH 1982 DAVID STEWART 1983 CAROLYN FRANCIS 1983 KEN BROOKS 1983 ANDY COTTON 1983 DANIEL VAN VUUREN 1983 DAVID NEWMAN 1984 COBUS CALITZ 1984 MARK DALE 1984 BRIAN MAY 1984 COLIN THOMAS 1984 GORDON PARRISH 1984 STEPHEN HINDLE 1984 ANDY FOX 1985 CAROL LEVY 1985 * ROGER TYM 1985 PETER ROBINSON 1985 BOB ALLAN 1984* GARY SEGHERS 1985 DAVID ROGERS 1985 NICKI CHARNICK 1985 DALE PARRISH 1985 NEIL STARKS 1985 DIANE VAN VUUREN 1985 ROBIN FULLER 1986 ANDREW BROWN 1986 * MARK HINDLE 1986 ATTIE STONE 1986 JON FINCH 1988 LAWRENCE BROWN 1988 KEITH COETZEE 1989 SHAWN DANCER 1989 DAVE EDWARDS 1989 ANDREW HILL 1989 MICKY KLEB 1989 BURT MILLIGAN 1989 MICHAEL SPELLMAN 1990 ANNE RILEY 1991 BERYL BATTY 1991 KEITH BOSCH 1991 STEPHEN HARWOOD 1991 KELVIN DANIELS 1992 PAT MILLER 1992 TONY MCLAUGHLIN 1992 JAMES MATTHEWS 1992 PHILIP RYAN 1993 TREVOR HUGHES 1993 * HILARY CRUNDWELL 1993 PAUL MADIGAN 1993 DAVID MOTE 1994 KEITH TRIGWELL 1994 RICK WILSON 1994 ELIZABETH WRIGHT 1994 GARY DEACONS 1994 TOM FEENEY 1995 MARTIN ROSE 1995 PAUL LAZARUS 1995 ALAN LOCKHART 1996 PAUL HERMAN 1997 DAVID GOLDING 1998 WAYNE MORRIS 1998 KATHY KIRBY 1999 DARREN WAGHORNE 1999 IAN BATES 2001 JOHN LAWN 2003 ROBIN SALMON 2004 JOE BRACONE 2006 MARTIN MILNE SMITH 2006 LINDA BURNS 2007 TED WATTLESWORTH 2007 RICHARD COZENS 2008 MICHAEL CLAPHAM 2008 ROGER MILNE SMITH 2008 CLAIRE MILNE SMITH 2008 NICK SINGLETON 2009 ANDY ROBERTS 2009 DWINDAR NAR 2011 JAN CLAPHAM 2012 KEITH MOLYNEUX 2012 STEVE HEAD 2013 EAMON TOGHER 2013 TOBY MELLOWS 2013 ARTUR SIEPKA 2013 LAURENTIU SUTA 2013 ALEX BLUNT 2015 PAUL FLOYD 2015 RICHARD LILLINGTON 2015 TRACY HARPER 2016 PETER BENSON 2016 PAUL MINTO 2016 MARIE PETRELIS 2016 MARK JOSCELYNE 2017 BRIAN GOODALL 2017 IVOR HOBBINS 2018 ALISTAIR CARR 2018 CHRISTOPHER HYLTON 2019 WILL BUTCHER 2020 ARTUR BORCUCH 2021 JAMES BRYDEN 2022 © BUDOKAN BLACK BELT REGISTER 2023

OVERMATTER SUCH SAD NEWS ON HANSHI HANS HAUPT It is with great sadness that we hear of the passing of Hanshi Hans Haupt recently. He was a huge influence on Tenshinkan Karate in Japan and around the world and particularly Joe Bracone, with whom he is pictured here recently. Kindly go Seichin Dojo page for moro info. BUDOKAN GATHERING Top left clockwise to the right. Darren Waghorne 6 Dan receiving his Kyoshi Certificate of Title from David Passmore Sensei. Mike Clapham with part of his group on the day just finishing off Ananko. New Shodan James Bryden working on his stances during the Karate session. Toby Mellows at the beginning of the end of his Juji Nage with his friend and fellow Budokan colleague Keith Molyneux. The classical budo, or "martial ways" are not combat systems like their forerunner, bujutsu, or "martial arts"; nor are they sports like modern judo, kendo, or karate. They are first and foremost spiritual disciplines, whose ultimate goal, achieved through the most rigorous mental and physical training, is self-realization in the tradition of Zen Buddhism . Donn F. Draeger Classical Budo PRACTICAL MEDITATION WORKSHOP TRAINING THE TEACHERS Ptobably one of the most important workshops that Budokan has hosted in recent years took place in the Lymington Dojo recently. For over 50 years Budokan has taught and practice ZAZEN using the simple method of SHIKANTAZA or Just Sitting in a traditional Japanese Budo setting. It has proved to be of immense influence in self-discipline, improved attention span and the ability to concentrate for long periods of their Budo training, including their Zazen - or seated meditation. Budokan students - whether still active or not in their martial arts - nevertheless in the majority of cases continue to practice their meditation regularly as they have found the benefits of meditation (which are well known) help them to manage their emotions as they have grown older in this mad, mad world we are living in today. And this is why we are introducing an online programme to teach yourself Practical Meditation outside of the disciplined world of Japanese martial arts in your own home, with the backup and guidance of experienced long term adherents of meditation made up of the teachers and others attending the workshop. Each participant was provided with a 48 page bound document to take away with them to support their experiences on the day and to help them understand the content in context. Here are a few takeaways that have come in so far........ "For me one of the main takeaways of the Sunday session was, the importance of correct posture and the need to be aware of your posture during your meditation session and to self correct in order to keep a relaxed body to aid breathing correctly." Firstly, as it was a class in how to teach practical meditation, the step away from extending the breath beyond more than a few seconds was interesting, however on reflection unsurprising. It has been many years since this was the focus of my practice and settling on a comfortable rhythm is certainly the key. It feels very personal and I like how you have managed to give it quite a beautiful flow through your thoughts. I think you have put a lot of thought into how the content is constructed and what you have chosen to say and leave implied. It's as simple as breathing, or, it should be! So, "how hard can it be?" We all breath sub-consciously but when we start to think about it things go awry. Getting back to the basics of simply just sitting and breathing was the aim. STRONG IN HAND. KIND IN HEART. Within Budokan our mantra is "Strong in Hand. Kind in Heart." (Kokoro ni Tsuyoi te) and was formulated by Budokan SA many moons ago. But what does this mean to you? For some time, this has occupied my mind quite a bit. So, here goes. "Strong in Hand. Kind in Heart" is a phrase that implies having a powerful, confident demeanour or ability to handle challenging situations while also maintaining a compassionate and empathetic nature towards others. This expression suggests that someone possesses both physical or mental strength, as well as a gentle and generous disposition. It reflects the idea of being able to handle responsibilities and difficult circumstances with determination and effectiveness, while treating others with kindness, understanding, and empathy . Comparing my thoughts on the subject to a few major, main line Japanese martial arts we will see a similar theme. For this I have chosen Aikido (AikiKai Foundation / International Aikido federation), Kendo (All-Japan Kendo Federation), Iaido (All-Japan Kendo Federation), Jodo (All-Japan Kendo Federation), Naginata (All-Japan Naginata Federation), and Shotokan Karate (Japanese Karate Association). Iaido (All-Japan Kendo Federation) It is a "Way" in which practitioners seek to train the mind and body through developing a spiritual appreciation of the relationship between life and death, movement, and stillness. Kendo (All-Japan Kendo Federation) The concept of kendo The concept of kendo is to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the katana (sword) (Koken-Chiai) (KO = associate, KEN = swordsmanship, CHI = wisdom/knowledge, AI = means to love/care for) I have also heard Koken-Chiai meaning "through practicing swordsmanship with others we achieve the wisdom of understanding humanity". The purpose of practicing kendo To mold the mind and body. To cultivate a vigorous spirit, and through correct and rigid training, to strive for improvement in the art of kendo. To hold in esteem human courtesy and honour, to associate with others and sincerity, and to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself. This will make one be able: to love his/her country and society, to contribute to the development of culture, and to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples. Naginata (All-Japan Naginata Federation) To introduce ways of enriching peoples', live through the training and perseverance required in practice and developing manners, commitment, and a will to live in the individual. Training in naginata also develops honesty, integrity, and a sense of what is right. Jodo (All-Japan Kendo Federation) Learning and studying Jodo is in effect training your mind and body. What one learns is not only dexterity of movement, but also development of the spirit. The benefits derived from training are obvious, but the main ones thought to be of the greatest value are: (1) Develop Courtesy, Truthfulness, Sincerity, and Patience. (2) Through regular practice, the body becomes stronger and more active. (3) Through practicing the techniques, posture becomes improved. (4) You gain confidence and have a better sense of judgment in everyday life. (5) Overall, you will have better relationships with others. Aikido (AikiKai Foundation / International Aikido federation) The goal of Aikido training is not perfection of a step or skill, but rather improving one's character according to the rules of nature. Shotokan (Japanese Karate Association) The dojo kun is a five-point statement of principle for the Karate practitioner's conduct: (Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto) Seek perfection of character. (Makoto no michi o mamoru koto) Be sincere. (Doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto) Put maximum effort into everything you do. (Reigi o omonzuru koto) Respect others. (Kekki no yuu o imashimuru koto) Develop self-control. To summarise "Strong in Hand. Kind in Heart. " , to me means the notion of having a balanced nature that combines strength, resilience, and assertiveness with compassion, empathy, and benevolence towards others. Darren Waghorne Seasons Greetings Taijiquan, Kanazawa and Zen An interesting article on the relationship between all three by Dr. Wolfgang Herbert, Professor of Comparative Cultural Studies at the University of Tokushima, 5th Dan Shôtôkan Karate, Licenced teacher (Japan Wushu Taijiquan Federation) of Yang-style Taijiquan. OUR FIRST EVER UK FEMALE BLACK BELT SANDI GROOM pictured here with her three children was a wonderful Mum and the very first female to be awarded her Budokan Black Belt by Ray Ryan at a weekend workshop in Pembrokeshire in 1976. Read some memories from her son Lee here courtesy of Dave Wills, our first male Black Belt way back then. SO ITS NEVER TOO LATE TO SEND US YOUR MEMORIES OF YOUR BUDOKAN BLACK BELTS WHO HAVE PASSED AWAY. PLEASE HELP US REMEMBER THEM. This workshop is also always devoted to taking an in-depth fresh look at the building blocks of our disciplines. This year the theme was Kokyu Nagare - meaning slow breath flow in time to slow or medium movement in a totally relaxed physical and mental way. So the Iaido group were given a close up of “knowing your sword” with all the primary names of each of the parts considered important. Nest up they were given a simple move that required them to perform each of the four building blocks of Iaido - Nukitsuke - Kerioroshi - Chiburi and Noto all in one slow with breathing move. And this was followed by an in-depth look into each one of the four basics of Iaido eventually allowing medium and fast movement to concede with medium and fast breathing. After going through the kata as a whole, the karate group had four sequences of Ananko selected for them which they went through slowly concentrating on sound stances and tsugi ashi - the feet movements mostly found in Sanchin Kata. The out of these four sequences just 2 techniques were chosen for a close up of them in total coordination and timing of breath, movement and stillness. The Aikido group were probably in the best place for this theme to be able to learn to synchonise movement and breathing of two people into one. It is taught primarily to students of the correct skill levels to learn to “copy & ride” the responses of their attack as a prelude to the practise of kaeshi waza - or counter attack knowing this can only be achieved using total muscular relaxation along with the creative imagination of knowing the required route to take to be able to apply kaeshi waza with little physical exertion required. It is this type of precise that illustrates that real power is an expression of soft breathing that allows the pure muscular relaxation required to bring the flow of energy to powerful fruition. After long hours of training it suddenly just happens one day and the most prominent question that follows is “Did I just do That?”. And you can train the brain body synthesis into doing just that more often as progress in this area takes place. The only thing that will prevent it happening is if there is a reversion to a default position of using muscular power once again. 50% OF UK ADULTS SEE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS IN MEDITATION This finding is not new and reveals that people are prepared to use techniques found in meditation and mindfulness to assist them in cases of mild depression and anxiety. And we at Budokan applaud that. However, we see pictures on the right all over the place online encouraging people to try it out. And this posture does not look comfortable at all and comfort is key. It doesn't matter whether you are sitting on a cushion on a floor, on the edge of a seat, your bed, or kneeling on a stool. Your knees need to be below the line of your pelvis - to an angle of 5º/10º depending on your height, which as you can see from the diagram rotates your pelvis forward slightly. This makes the lower lumbar vertebrae a little more concave and the muscles of your lower back a little softer. Which allows you to raise your rib cage in a gentle upswing, making the lower lumbar even more concave. Without moving your shoulders, extend the head slightly forward and then backward until a gentle stop is reached with a natural lowering of the chin. Your thighs should not be at 90º to the upright body or above.

DOWN MEMORY LANE

The Philosophy of Budo Budo, the martial ways of Japan, have their origins in the traditions of bushido—the way of the warrior . Budo is a time-honoured form of physical culture comprising of judo, kendo, kyudo, sumo, karatedo, aikido, shorinji kempo, naginata and jukendo. Practitioners study the skills while striving to unify mind , technique and body; develop his or her character; enhance their sense of morality ; and to cultivate a respectful and courteous demeanour. Practised steadfastly, these admirable traits become intrinsic to the character of the practitioner. The Budo arts serve as a path to self-perfection. This elevation of the human spirit will contribute to social prosperity and harmony, and ultimately, benefit the people of the world. Written on 10 October, 2008 by the Japanese Budo Association (Nippon Budo Kyogikai) English translation approved on 1 May, 2009 ©2009 The Japanese Budo Association

88 Balham Road, Yapton Arundel West Sussex BN18 0JY BEGINNERS AND VISITORS WELCOME MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION GRADINGS CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT DARREN'S BIO Darren began the study of Traditional Aikido on Thursday 13th June 1991 as a member of the Tokushima Budo Council International. The TBCI was set up as for the preservation of the philosophical and spiritualistic concepts of the Classical Arts of Japan by Kenshiro Abbe (15 December 1915 – 1 December 1985). During his time with the TBCI Darren trained with multiple teachers around the UK include Saito Morihiro & Pat Hendricks. It wasn't until 1995 he met Kyoshi Passmore that he first experienced iaido and karate at various Budokan events and he began training in iaido under Kyoshi Ansell in 1996. Darren continues to enjoy training train with both, with the latter under the auspices of British Kendo Association where he has been selected to represent the UK at multiple European Iaido Championships. Joining the Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) in 1996 Darren had the privilege to attend the first 3 World World Butoku Sais in Norfolk Virginia (1998) and at the Butokuden in Kyoto, Japan in 2002 and 2008. These were led by the then Deputy Sosai, Jiko Higashifushimi, a cousin to Emperor Akihito. Apart from these events he has attended many European Butoku Sais and Rensei Taikais with the DNBK. At these events that Darren has had the opportunity to practice other arts such as DaitoRyu AikiJujutsu, Kendo, Judo, Naginata, Jojutsu, Sojutsu & Jujutsu. Apart from the Dai Nippon Butokukai events Darren has attended various Budo seminars within the UK as well as Belgium, France, Netherlands, Germany, USA and Greece. ARUNDEL DOJO Classes are held in a vibrant atmosphere where students benefit from some of the highest quality tuition available in the UK today. Disciplines KARATE - SHUKUKAI RYU AIKIDO - TRADITIONAL IAIDO - MUSOSHINDEN RYU ZEN - SOTO Chief Instructor DAVID PASSMORE 7 DAN KYOSHI Dojo Leaders DARREN WAGHORNE 6 DAN darrenwaghorne@yahoo.co.uk DAVID GOLDING 5 DAN catekize@msn.com CONGRATULATIONS TO DARREN ON HIS 4TH DAN WITH THE BKA On Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd May the British Kendo Association held their annual West Midlands Iaido seminar with a grading upto Yondan on the last afternoon. Being the first West Midlands seminar after lockdown it was a full house of 60 students led by Fay Goodman Sensei, Nanadan Kyoshi. Assisting her were 3 Rokudans all holding the Renshi title which included the current BKA Squad coach. On the first day the seminar was split in to 4 grade groups with a Sensei working with each group for 3 techniques before moving on to another group. This allowed all of the 12 Seitei-gata, including the specific Chakugan-ten (grading points) for each kata, to be covered by the 4 teachers. The second day the groups were the same but this time the teacher stayed with that group only. I was fortunate to have Fay Goodman Sensei. This time the practice was concentrate on the reiho and our grading katas which were notified to us prior to the start of the day. For Yondan this was 1 free choice of Koryu which I chose Shohatto and 4 Shitei waza (complusary techniques) of Ushiro, Sanpogiri, Ganmenate and Sougiri. The shitei waza are chosen by the Sensei on the course and they are different for each grade and seminar though occassionally they overlap. Anyone attempting Shodan and above much complete a written grading paper which consisting of 6 questions. This paper needs to be submitted in advance of the seminar and passed before you can sit the "physical" shinza (grading). The "physical" shinza part is also known as Jitsugi or practical skill. For an attemp of Yondan there needs to be 6 shinza-in (grading panelists) of Rokudan and above and you require least 4 votes from the panel to pass. The 4 teachers of the course and another Nanadan Kyoshi & Rokudan Renshi attended to make up the panelists. The grading took place in grade order, from the lowest grade to the highest. This meant I was last on! It not just the waiting for your grading it is also the wait after whilst the grading officer reviews the panelists notes to determine who has passed or failed. I hate waiting! Subtle celebrations ensued after the posting of the results and a lot of handshakes and well dones. For me it didn't end there. I spoke to all the garding panelists to gain feedback on my grading to help me improve going orward.

SHIKANTAZA An aide memoire Shikantaza (just simply sitting) is objectless meditation, in which the practitioner uses the power developed in concentration to remain in a state of conscious awareness. There are a variety of different views on what sikantaza actially means. Some say shikantaza is described best as, "quiet sitting in open awareness, reflecting directly on the reality of life". Shikantaza is often termed a goalless meditation in quiet awareness, not working on any koan, or counting the breath. It is an alert condition, performed erect, with no trace of sluggishness or drowsiness. Som scholars have said that shi means tranquility, kan refers to awareness, ta means hitting exactly the right spot and za means to sit. For me it all comes down to "j ust simply sitting still in tranquil awareness ". Zen - meaning meditation - changes your spirit by reflection. What follows is a short travelogue of nudges, reminders and observations to help you on the road to the Shikantaza experience. On the left hand side you will see some figures in bold . These figures should be used as a rough guide to the aproximate times that should have lapsed during your preparation and each section of your parctice. The first figure is for less experienced maditators. The second figure is for experienced meditators. Everybody is different and you will find out what suits you from your own experience. After you have sat down and become aware that you are upright and comfortable - from that moment prepare yourself - it varies with each individual. Close your eyes lightly - and keep them closed for the entire "zesshin". Breathe from the lower abdomen - so it becomes "abdominal respiration". It also called diaphragmatic respiration. Do not use your upper chest for breathing and keep your shoulders level and relaxed. Place your tongue lightly on the roof of your mouth and try to keep it there. You can't easily breathe in via the mouth if the tongue is in this position for long. You must breathe in and out through the nose. Slowly breathe in through your nose to say 5 seconds. Slowly breathe out through your nose for say 7 seconds Where the CO2 exhaled from your lungs is greater than the oxygen you breathed in. Keep just this going for a while and establish a rhythm of diaphragmatic breathing which reaches an equilibrium of around 5 or 6 seconds and 5 or 6 seconds out. Interestingly, this has historical precedent in religious practices where 6 seconds is exactly the time it takes to accomplish certain Buddhist mantra's and it is also found the same exhalation is used whilst citing the Christian Rosary. ..................................................Now become AWARE. On a wide range of levels. Your stillness is critical so - DO NOT MOVE UNLESS YOU HAVE TO. From below the belt you are absolutely rooted to the spot you are sitting on. No movement there. Your heartbeat - feel it - really feel it. Your body is still and your muscles have nothing to do - so they soften. And soften they do as you take in more oxygen into your blood through the established rhythm of your breathing. As the muscles soften your joints begin to open. There is the rhythm of your lower abdominal nuscles. In the stomach area the Japanese call the Hara. And there you will find what is called the Tanden. The single spot in the lower abdomen - about an inch or so directly below your navel. It is your centre of gravity. As you breathe in - they expand out - not too much. As you breathe out - they contract - just a little more. Maintain the rhythm. Slowly and imperceptibly, your muscles have softened to the point where you have become aware of it and you have to micro manage your posture from time to time in 4 tiny movements. 1 Most peoples heads move a little forward, so every now and then you need to move your head back to the midline of your shoulders and tuck your chin in just a little at the same time. 2 Raise your ribcage - this is the area where most people begin to stoop from. 3 This will lead you to gently make your lumbar vertebrae a little more concave. 4 Allow both shoulders to drop evenly. You will need to continue to make micro adjustments to your posture, (as above) as it naturally changes and you become used to feeling it necessary to do so. Its not a thought process - its just a feeling. And it usually ends up being a lot more comfortable. So keep doing it please. Maintain your breathing ryhthm. And become aware of your senses. Move your attention to your eyes and slowly roll them a little. From there flare your nose a few times as you breathe in. Push your tongue gently up to the roof of your mouth. Become aware of your hearing. Move your fingers a little for touch. And now you sense of being.....here.....now.... Turn your awareness onto your brain. That houses the mind. The best difference between the two I have read is "The brain is indeed the physical structure. Neurons, axons, dendrites, neurotransmitters, synapses, discrete structures… All that and more. The “mind” (consciousness) is the “emergent property” of the activity of that brain". Quora Past , present and future thoughts - pop in and out all the time - as has already been happening to you. Let them come and go. Learn how to get back to your awarenes of what you are doing in the present. Let the past go and do not look to the future - always stay in the present - it is not easy but comes with practice. And the flow of thoughts will begin to slow down as they should have by now. By raising or slowing our brainwaves, we can altar how we think, feel and act. Meditation is the process of slowing our alerting beta brainwaves to the slower states of alpha and theta. Beta is the waking, thinking state. It is our normal state of mind in which we are the highly alert. Alpha is a slower state more indicative of relaxing and reflecting. Meditation is often practiced in the alpha state. Theta is an even slower state perfect for daydreaming and intuitive thinking. Deep meditation and prayer are practiced in the theta state. Delta is the slowest of the four states where sleep occurs. At the slowest delta level, sleep is deep and dreamless. Neuroimaging studies suggest that the normal resting state of the brain is a silent current of thoughts, images and memories that is not induced by sensory input or intentional reasoning, but emerges spontaneously "from within." This is what the Zen Buddhists from the Soto sect refer to as “silent illumination”. And that is what actually happens - as feelings come before thoughts. But here in this stillness of the body, the rhythm of the breath opens the way to a deep, visceral awareness. It is much like Metsuke - a much heightened form of conscious awareness than Zanshin when training in Budo, along with the physical manifestation of Kime when doing any Kata. The head, heart and soul of it all. Our thoughts, our desires and our experiences. It is the awareness of awarenesses. And it is here that you have to work hard at sliencing your inner monologue from trying to analyse or comment on what you see and experience. It is the point when your subjective experiences becomes objective observation. It is where subjective and objective meet. Which ever so slowly over time begins to evolve into a clearer perception of the world inside your head and the real world out there. Images appear and disappear in a kaleidoscope of colour. Some are quite quick and slow to disappear. Some just slowly emerge into recognisable images. Many are landscapes and vistas that are new to you. Some are people and faces you have never seen before. You can't hold on to them for longer than a few seconds - most try to and fail. Swirling cloud-like images float around and past you. Giving you an impression of movement. Slowly you reach a deep state of absolute stilness and silence. It is often referred to as the "void". It is as if you are at the edge of space. You are in awe for what you think is an eternity. .../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../.................. Einstein said "The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious; It is the source of all true art and science". How you emerge from this experience depends on the environment you are in. Always try to do so slowly if you can. Keeping your eyes closed for a few minutes more. Tuck your chin in to your chest - round your shoulders and your spine and gently stretch forward, as far as you comfortably can and hold for a minute. Sit up slowly and rotate your shoulders both ways by moving your arms. Move your head up and down slowly. And then to the left and the right. Sit still and upright for a moment with youe eyes open. Feel the moment. Lao Tzu said "Meditation is vital energy". And I do generally feel vitalised and full of energy in the immediate hours thereafter. But for me the chief consequence of doing 45 minutes or an hour of Shikantaza first thing in the morning, is the beautiful feeling of having tapped into my inuitive self aong with a sense of clarity that remains present with me for the rest of my day. Well, almost. It is not easy to practice Shikantaza every day - but the benefits are supreme. Each and every day thereafter. David Passmore Kyoshi At the beginning of 2021 DRAW A VEIL OVER THE FUTURE. LET GO OF THE PAST. EMBRACE THE PRESENT. 5-10

HUT 15 TILGATE RECREATION CENTRE CRAWLEY WEST SUSSEX RH10 9BQ SHINSEI DOJO Chief Iaido Instructor David Ansell 7th Dan Kyoshi Dai Nippon Butokukai 5th Dan British Kendo Association davidransell6@gmail.com Phone 07311219671 Iaido training times Monday 8.00pm - 9.30pm Wednesday 8.00pm - 9.30pm BEGINNERS WELCOME THE FORGOTTEN LINEAGE OF THE YUSHINKAN OF NAKAYAMA HAKUDO READ MORE Chief Kendo Instructor Alex Ansell 5th Dan British Kendo Association alexansell@yahoo.co.uk Phone 07399 721662 Kendo training times Tuesday. 7.30pm -9.30pm Thursday 7.30pm - 9.30pm BEGINNERS WELCOME

1960- 2023 Message from Doshu 2021 Hello to all our BUDOKAN and adjoining Martial Arts family members. Here we are at the close of another year and what a year it has been for us all, but firstly back to our BUDOKAN WORLD. I have to say, as I'm sure you will join me in agreeing, I am just so proud of Kyoshi David for his efforts, hard work and dedication in moving forward with his dream of building BUDOKAN WORLD into an honorable internationally recognized martial arts institution, encompassing many arts and a wide variety of respected leaders from around the world. Some from our original Budokan of years ago, and others of different systems, thus forming an organisation for all to be proud of. What makes me personally so proud and humbled is that after just on 60 years since my forming of the original BUDOKAN SA, Kyoshi David, who has been with me for nearly that long and has never strayed from the ethics and beliefs I formed at that time, HONOR, DUTY, RESPECT & HUMILITY... "STRONG IN HAND, KIND IN HEART", of this I can't tell you all what that means to me personally, for Kyoshi David followed all I believed in and dreamed of, and has taken it to a higher level and for this he has my lifelong respect and gratitude. I cannot ask for more than he has given. I do believe that those of you fortunate enough to be under his personal guidance in life and on the floor, no matter what the art, you have to know you are guided by the best. The martial arts and its Great Masters of the many systems I was privileged and honored to train under back in the 1960s defined my life, and with their teachings I went out into the world to try and make our only home, Earth, a better place for all who share it with us. Recently I read a passage I would like to share with you, written by that great philosopher "Thomas Paine" who I felt well defined my profile, he wrote : THE WORLD IS MY COUNTRY...ALL MANKIND ARE MY BRETHREN AND TO DO GOOD, IS MY RELIGION. In this regard I want to share the following with you. Regarding the worldwide events of this year, as martial artists following our Budokan path, I ask you to make the following part of your path forward. I am saddened by what we have become as the human race; never have politics been so far down in the gutter, never have we had so may conflicts, prompted mainly by religion. Never have we had so many needy people, mostly children, without countries, shelter, food and water plus the criminal suffering of millions of children that goes unattended, and it just seems to become worse. My plea to you is to make it your mission this next year to offer whatever help you can to those in need in your areas, no matter how small; every little bit helps those in need and they need to see there are people who care and, perhaps through your generosity, they will find hope for better life in the future. In closing may I wish you and your families all you could wish for yourselves for the future. May you have success in life, love and much happiness and may the Power that protects us, keep you from harm on the road you may travel. Yours in the spirit of our BUDOKAN... Doshu Richard Salmon 2019 New Year message 2018 New Year message from Richard Salmon Greetings to you all as we move toward the end of yet another year. I hope that 2018 has been a good one for you and your loved ones and that you have achieved all you wished for. On the BUDOKAN front, I have to say once again how impressed I am with the work KYOSHI DAVID PASSMORE is doing in developing the story of BUDOKAN past and future, and of what BUDOKAN really is and means. When I see this, as my journey and path moves towards the top of the mountain [slowly I hope?] it gives me great hope that our BUDOKAN will be in good hands in the future, for there will be no excuse following his leadership and all he has shared. You have no finer Sensei to show you the way. In this troubled world, if we can follow our BUDOKAN KUN of HONOuR, DUTY, RESPECT AND HUMILITY and truly practice STRONG IN HAND, KIND IN HEART and share this code with others, we can, through our training, help make our World a better place for those that share it with us. That's my challenge to you. I have always taught : " THE BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT IN LIFE, IS WHEN YOU DISAPPOINT YOURSELF" Now for some well deserved news : My responsibility as DOSHU/FOUNDER of BUDOKAN is to ensure our Members and Leaders receive the rewards they deserve for THEIR YEARS OF DEDICATION TO AND PERFECTION OF THE ART, LOYALTY AND SERVICE TO THE ORGANISATION and in that regard, on this day of 27th November, 2018, It is with HUMILITY, THE GREATEST HONOUR AND PRIDE that I award “KYOSHI” DAVID PASSMORE the well deserved rank of 7th DAN KARATE Finally as we move towards the end of this year, may I wish you and your loved ones all you could wish for yourselves for 2019, happiness and above all, be safe. Yours in BUDO, RICHARD SALMON DOSHU BUDOKAN TO ALL "BUDOKAN UK" MEMBERS. As we approach the end of still another year, I wanted to share with you all a little background and history of your SENSEI DAVID PASSMORE, for he was with me from the very beginning of his "BUDO JOURNEY". and I know, perhaps more than any others, how far he has traveled. It was some 50 years ago that as a young man he stepped onto the floor in my original "BUDOKAN' dojo in the city of Durban to start a journey that even he, had no idea would take him to great heights in our ART OF KARATE-DO. From the very beginning he showed the potential and dedication that would be needed to take him to the top. Training five or six times a week, in the dojo, on the beach or in the mountains at training camps, he gave it his all to become one of the finest students I ever had the privilege of teaching. His standard and technique soon became the standard for others to follow. In competition he represented our "BUDOKAN" Natal Provincial Team on many occasions in both Kata and Kumite with good results. A highlight I believe we shared together as Sensei and Student. was in 1969, when he teamed up with me to present a weapons demonstration at the first South African Games, the equivalent of the South African Olympics, which was put together after South Africa was expelled from the Olympics for it's Apartheid policy . At the games Sensei David also represented the "ALL STYLES TEAM" in Kata and Kumite that represented the Province of Natal against a team from the UK. His departure for the UK was a great loss for me, for he was an inspiration to the newer students of what could be achieved with dedicated training, and he had become one of few I believed could go all the way, which is what he has done. On leaving South Africa and developing his own "Budokan UK" he took with him everything I had tried to instill in all who trained with us, HONOUR, DUTY, RESPECT & HUMILITY and STRONG IN HAND & KIND IN HEART. and dedication to training and understanding the different and deeper aspects of our ART and he did that but took it to a higher level, for which I am so proud. So with this little background, you, his students, have a slightly better understanding of the man you are training under, a TRUE "BUDO" MAN who has a complete understanding of what it means to be a "complete Karate-ka and Martial Artist". As his students you could not ask for a better leader, not only in our Art, but in life's journey itself. I am privileged to call him my friend. As we move forward to the NEW YEAR, I wish you and you family all you could wish for yourselves, love, success, happiness and above all, safety. Finally I would like to offer you an old African Blessing : MAY THE POWER THAT GUIDES AND PROTECTS US, ALWAYS STAND BETWEEN YOU AND HARM ON THE ROAD YOU MUST TRAVEL. Sincerely, Richard Salmon DOSHU BUDOKAN Richard Salmon Founder - Doshu - Budokan More Than One Life By Richard Salmon This is a fascinating book on the life of an extraordinary person. The beginning covers his early life in Durban and his schooling, his Naval life and his marriage to his lifelong partner and wife Dot and the birth of his two sons Grant and Robin. Richard started off his career by learning the art of Judo and later became interested in other Japanese Martial Arts. Through sheer tenacity in trying to gain knowledge of these unknown arts in South Africa the author takes us on an experience that is difficult to comprehend. Him standing wharfside and shouting to attract attention of Japanese fishing trawler crew members to inquire if anybody knew anything about Karate that they might be able to teach him.Through these contacts Richard traveled to Sao Palo in Brazil to learn from one of the masters that lived there. This vast knowledge that he gained prompted him to open his own Dojo and hence Budokan was born. The sport quickly became very popular and spread throughout South Africa Richard also traveled extensively in Japan to study and train with some of the great masters of Karate. This pioneering spirit went on to become one of the largest karate Dojos in S.A. Now some sixty years later Budokan is a worldwide organisation and still going strong. Richard always believed that by educating the youth about environmental issues it would later have an impact on the world we live in. The Mountain Youth Leadership School was started in the Eastern Orange Free State mountains and later the Youth Leadership School at the famous YO Ranch in Texas. Richard was a member of the World Wildlife Organisation and was also a personal friend of Prince Phillip Bernard of the Netherlands. The book takes us on his travels around the world teaching conservation and youth leadership to young people. Richard has met Presidents. Prime Ministers, Kings, Queens Billioners Popes and Paupers in his quest to make the world a better place to live in. Salla gahle umfundi Shihan Dix Wridgway

DOJO LEADERS : Sensei Kim Heaton (4th Dan) – Pinetown – Westville and Bluff KZN - kim.heaton@mweb.co.za Sensei Tracy Staples (3rd Dan) – Kloof – Winston Park – Waterfall Area KZN - t.staples@telkomsa.net Sensei Joos Huyzers (3rd Dan) – Kempton Park, Johannesburg - jooshuyzers@gmail.com Sensei Eden Jackson (2nd Dan) – Scottsburgh and Umzinto Area KZN - eden@ubtex.co.za BUDO KARATE-DO SA Traditional Shito-ryu Karate Kelvin Daniels (6th Dan) started his karate in 1967 under the instruction of the late Sensei Vic Sykes. Following many years of training under some of the top karate instructors, Sensei Shigeru Kimura, Sensei Tekeshi Masuyama and Sensei Keiji Tomiyama to name just a few, he has come full circle back to his Budokan roots and has the great honour of continuing his training directly under Doshu Richard Salmon. info@highwaykarate.co.za The following is a breakdown of the karate classes that are available in the Upper Highway Area, Durban, Kwazulu Natal: Highbury Preparatory School in Hillcrest, Monday and Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6.15pm for juniors and 6.15pm to 7.15pm for seniors. Forest View Primary School in Waterfall/Forest Hills, Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30pm to 6.15pm for juniors and 6.15pm to 7.15pm for seniors. Budo Karate-do S.A. teaches traditional Shito-ryu karate and places great value on the numerous kata and their Bunkai that have been passed down over the years. Dojos are friendly and offer instruction at all levels and ages as well as hosting style tournaments during the year for students to participate in a friendly environment. Each year the style offers students the opportunity to take part in an All Grades Gashku, normally a two day event. In addition, Brown and Black Belts have the privilege of attending a long weekend training seminar (gashku) at a beach camp ending with grading. .. Trophy winners with Sensei Daniels 2020 ANNUAL GRADINGS COVID STYLE Unlike previous years, 2020 has given us many new challenges and none more so than keeping our students moving forward and grading them during Covid-19 lockdown. In the past our Brown and Black Belts were graded over a long weekend held at a beach resort (TO Strand) on the Kwazulu Natal South Coast. Unfortunately with Covid-19 infections on the increase together with the required protocols we had to down scale this year's senior grading and have it integrated into the same day as the lower grades grading. In my opinion, under the circumstance this was going to be as good as it gets with Doshu coming through and joining us for the day. Sadly because of the spike in covid infections Doshu and I felt that it had become far too risky for him to attend. In the same tone one of our sensei from Guateng who was due to fly down to attend also had to withdraw from his grading. We started in the morning with our brown and black belt grading which was run over three hours behind closed doors. Much to the disappointment for our grading candidates certain aspects of the grading had to be dropped because of the ruling around social distancing. This meant that we couldn't do bag/impact work, Hokai Kumite, Ippon Kumite or Ju Kumite. The main focus of the grading was turned towards Kihon, Combinations and Kata. At the end of the grading parents were eventually allowed in to attend the awarding of the grades. Overall and considering the long period of lockdown earlier this year the standard was good. It would seem that the Zoom Classes that had taken the place of normal training classes had worked. In the afternoon we ran a further two sessions splitting the white, yellow and orange belts into the first session and the green, blue and purple belts into the final session of the day. Most of the candidates grading were our youngsters who in a normal year would have graded in June. The excitement for them to be eventually grading was very evident and in most, the standard was way higher than I expected. Although the circumstances for the grading changed on a daily basis building up to the grading with even the possibility of cancellation , ultimately I believe that the day was a great success considering. Very good social distancing!

BUXTON 2011 University of Derby Buxton 2011. The scene of the First Open Traditional Japanese Budo 2 day Seminars in the UK for decades with Budokan heavily involved in the creation, organisation and management of the event with great back up from the University and from a legion of like minded people passionate about Budo,like the very well known David Ansell who helped initiate the event and played an important part in its success.

CERTIFICATION With over 60 years of experience and technical excellence to draw on we provide only Black Belt Rank and Title recognition and accreditation to teachers, instructors, dojo leaders and students across all disciplines as a single discipline or as a multi-discipline, on recommendation only. THERE IS A CERTIFICATE OF GRADE OR RANK AND A CERTIFICATE OF TITLE. Each certificate has different wording in English and Japanese. The Certificate of Grade or Rank application is normally completed by the Dojo Leader for a current member of their Dojo. In the event of a Dojo Leader application it must come from an accredited source known to and supported by 2 current Dojo Leaders or Associates. THERE IS A FEE FOR A CERTIFICATE OF RANK. Scroll down for Grading Fee structure. A NOTE ON GRADING FEES For many years Budokan adopted a policy of not charging students for Kyu and Dan grade certification. This decision was justified on the common knowledge of grading systems becoming open to malpractice by officials of larger martial arts groups for the purpose of raising funds. When budokanworld.com was launched in 2010 we decided to ask the Dojo Leaders in the UK/EU/US and other countries, what a fair fee would be to pay for Dan Grades only issued by Budokan. After a few months of deliberation the Dojo Leaders generally felt that Budokan had real value in the technical excellence of their Dan Grades and suggested a number of options from which Budokan settled on the fair and reasonable Fee Structure below which, needless to say is below that which was presented. This is an image of the Budokan Certificate of Rank. and is for visual purposes only. English wording for each of the certificates will appear in the space on the left and the Japanese katakana in the space on the right. This beautiful work of art has been designed by Katy Passmore. They are all printed on Magnolia Parchment. Paper size A3. Explanation of the Henko The larger square Henko is the Seal of Budokan The smaller round Henko are the personal signatures from left to right of Darren Waghorne Rob Rohrey David Passmore Peter Bush Roy Estabrook Kyoshi Godan Saisho Sensei Kyoshi Godan CERTIFICATE OF RANK Recommendation is based on grading record, years of continuous training, technical skill prowess, accomplishments, dedication and service, attitude, teaching and instruction, heart, values and excellence in personal character. General Ranking guide to the timeline of consecutive years of training. Shodan 1st Dan 1-3 years Nidan 2nd Dan 3-5 years Sandan 3rd Dan 5-8 years Yondan 4th Dan 8-12 years Godan 5th Dan 12-18 years Rokudan 6th Dan 18 – 25 years Shichidan 7th Dan 25 – 32 years Hachidan 8th Dan 32- 45 years HOW IT WORKS 1 Each Dojo leader nominates a person or persons for accreditation and certification by Peer Review* directly to Budokan. These requests may be retrospective. 2 Kindly go to ACCREDITATION for the detail of what is required. 3 Upon receipt of this information by email and any attached documentation, we examine the credentials and all endorsements in text, pictorial audio or video format in support of the application. 4 We defer to two of our Community Dojo Leaders to assist us in the examination of those disciplines outside of our remit - such as Ju Jitsu, Kodokan Judo, Kendo and Kobudo. The personal Henko of each of these examiners will appear on the Certificate of Rank along with the Henko of the Doshu Richard Salmon and Kyoshi David Passmore. 5 A period of 6-8 weeks needs to be factored into the review process. 6 Once a decision has been reached either way, the recommender is informed directly by email. 7 If approved, an appropriate certificate is drawn up, dated, numbered and photographed with the appropriate Henko in place. This photographic evidence of Rank will be placed on the appropriate Dojo Page (in the public domain) for all to see. It wi also be registered for copyright protection and placed in our Dan Grade (Black Belt) Register. 8 If not approved, the recommender is informed as to the reasons why this decision has been reached by email and if appropriate offer outline measures to take that will allow a repeat application to take place within 12 months at no further cost to the applicant. 9 All certificates will be carefully rolled up and inserted into a secure tube and sent by post to the recommender to pass on or direct to the receiver, as appropriate. A signature will be required at each destination if possible. * Peer Review functions as a form of self-regulation by qualified members of our Traditional Japanese Budo Community. Recommendations for a person to be awarded a Certificate of Rank, who is no longer active in Budo may also be considered in appropriate circumstances . CERTIFICATE OF RANK FEE STRUCTURE All fees are shown in £GBP 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Shodan Nidan Sandan Yondan Godan Rokudan Chichidan Hachidan 75.00 100.00 130.00 175.00 220.00 260.00 300.00 340.00 CERTIFICATE OF TITLE The Certificate of Title is conferred as an huge honour to bestow upon an individual Budoka deserving of this honour - see below for further definition. We undertake to seek the majority approval from all current Dojo Leaders for each recommendation. If no such majority is reached then Budokan will withdraw its application for a minimum of 12 months. THERE IS NO FEE REQUIRED FOR A CERTIFICATE OF TITLE. (Only a small production cost for the Certificate of Title and Posting and Packaging) The award of Titles is made using the ancient Shogoo system, as used by the Dai Nippon Butokukai of Kyoto in Japan, to those who have made an outstanding contribution to the development of Traditional Japanese Budo, shown leadership in teaching and the maintenance of a high level of Budo skills over decades of continuous service. Shogoo is bestowed upon a highly qualified individual of integrity ad honour with a proven record of achievement in all phases of their Budo. Renshi - Polished Samurai Warrior Kyoshi - Master Teacher Samurai Warrior Hanshi - Exemplary Illustrious Warrior - Master of the Samurai Way In Reference to the three titles Renshi, Kyoshi and Hanshi Ren = A Trainer of the Way Kyo = A Teacher of the Way Han = A Model of the Way Dojo Officials Sempai - a leading instructor Shidoin - a leading head instructor Shihan - a master instructor (For more details please email us at idavid@budokanworld.com ) FURTHER NOTES OF INTEREST ON JAPANESE BUDO TITLES 1. Sensei "Teacher or One who has gone before": This title is by far the most often used title in karate and generally refers to someone of Yon-Dan level (4th Degree Black Belt.) Many senior instructors including Hanshi Masami Tsuruoka, wi ll state that this is the most honorable title that a student can use when referring to the senior as their teacher. The title Sensei implies a close bond between the student and teacher's relationship. 2. Shihan: "Master or Expert Teacher": It is important to understand that the meaning Master as used in the martial arts is someone who has mastered the basic and advanced understandings {Principles} of a particular style or system, thus the title Shihan means someone who has mastered the basic and advanced techniques as well as the principles, concepts, and theory of their respective style of karate. The title Shihan does not mean that this person has stopped learning because they know all of the answers. On the contrary, they are considered to be the most serious and dedicated students in any style of martial arts. The title Shihan is generally considered to be an organizational title alone and has little meaning (May not be recognized) outside of the holders style or organization. 3. Doshi: "Leading Teacher": Title sometimes used before Renshi (3rd dan) 4. Renshi: "Senior Expert Teacher": This is the first of the three generally used teacher titles. Although this title is independent of rank, it is seldom given to anyone below the rank of Go-Dan. (5th dan) 5. Tasshi or Tesshi: "Apprentice Master Teacher": This title was originally the title used instead of Kyoshi. 6. Kyoshi: "Master Teacher, Teacher of Teachers": This is the second of the three generally used teacher titles. Although this title is independent of the ranking system, it is seldom given to anyone below the rank of Roku-dan and in most cases Shichi-dan). (7th dan) 7. Hanshi: "Senior Master Teacher": This is the third and highest of the three generally used teacher titles. Although this title is independent of the ranking system, it is seldom given to anyone below the rank of Hachi-Dan (8th Degree Black Belt) 8. Iemoto / Soke An iemoto may be addressed by the title Iemoto or O-iemoto, or by the title Sōshō or Ō-sensei In English. "Grand Master" is often the title that is used. The Iemoto's main roles are to lead the school and protect its traditions, to be the final authority on matters concerning the school, to issue or approve licenses and certificates and, in some cases, to instruct the most advanced practitioners