LOUGHBOROUGH ENSHIN KAI

Newsletter – September 2011

Tests

The tests last night were excellent. Congratulations to all who passed and thanks to everyone who helped. Good attendance, real spirit, visible effort and progress and some well-earned new belts!

Debbie

Debbie assisted in the tests on what was her last regular training session, as she is leaving soon for University. She's been a dedicated member for 10 years. I know we're all sorry to see her go and we all wish her well in her studies. Best of luck, Debbie, and remember to drop by when you come home (to get some home cooking or your washing done).

Membership

Our numbers are currently flat or dipping a little, as is often the case over the hot Summer months, and while new members continue to join we'll always have room for more. Outside karate it's apparent that Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is currently fashionable – and of course our style of hard, effective karate training and discipline may be rather less so. I strive to teach challenging and practical karate and keep ritual to a minimum, but sometimes the public perception of what we do means new recruits may be put off. Please help by introducing anyone you know who may be interested. Many times, once a new starter has got past the first few sessions they're hooked so I currently offer a month's free trial for anyone wanting to try us out.

Fees

If the membership ever falls substantially please be forewarned that it will be necessary to increase fees, to ensure we cover the routine overheads. This isn't a profit issue and I know times are hard for everyone just now so I will keep any increases to a minimum.

Freiburg

Four of us are off to Freiburg next month. Ros may compete – health permitting – and Joe Singh Nagra is hoping to test for 3rd Dan. I will be asking everyone to help and encourage them in the build up. I won't be refereeing this year, so on the day I will be able to coach and spectate, something I've not done for 30 years. I'm looking forward to it.

40 years

Another milestone - this November marks 40 years of regular training for me. I've enjoyed most of them and struggled through some - nothing worth having is ever easy (see the collected speeches of G Chamberlain, Vol 1). My motivation has changed over the years as I sincerely believe the goal of an instructor is to get themself as strong as possible, then help others reach higher levels of ability. Judging by this week's Tests, this is working, so while the interest is still there I will continue to give my best. Onward!

Let's have a drink to celebrate this next decade. Maybe Ros will make another cake ..…

GJEC