BLACK BELT GRADING INFORMATION
To download the complete grading manual click here.
BLACK BELT GRADING REQUIREMENTS
As Chief Instructor of the SWKKF, I need to make it clear what “minimum requirements” mean. It has been stated many times and yet we still have a problem. Minimum requirements mean… “They must not be average but outstanding at their present rank.” I have only seen a hand full eligible for the minimum requirement. Instructors are sending their students way too early and are forcing the jōseki board to fail them. No one wants to fail anyone, however, when a student is presented in front of a jōseki board with minimum requirements and fails, it’s a reflection on the instructor and not the student. There is no reason to rush. It doesn’t change who you are. Best being a great Shodan than a weak Nidan.
As for ranks above Godan, these ranks are considered honorary ranks and black belts need not apply; they are recommended by the senate only.
As a personal note, people put too much emphasis on rank. It’s not the belt you wear but who you are on and off the dojo floor that makes you that rank. I need your cooperation on reinforcing these guidelines and I appreciate your help.
Thank you
Sensei Ron Mattie - Chief Instructor SWKKF
APPLICATION FORMS
Application form download: Shodan
Application form download: Nidan/Sandan/Yodan
Application form download: Godan
Application form download: Rokudan/Shichidan/Hachidan
Application form grading questionnaire (ALL RANKS, TO BE SUBMITTED WITH APPLICATION): Grading Questionnaire
Hosting grading application form: Host a grading
MAILING APPLICATION
Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation (SWKKF)
P.O. Box 20028 Grantham
St. Catharines, ON L2M 7W7
EMAILING APPLICATION
Grading applications can be emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
NOTE ON SHODAN, NIDAN, SANDAN AND YODAN APPLICATIONS
Application and payment must be complete and received 1 month prior to grading to be eligible for grading. Late applications will not be accepted as per Senate decision December 2012.
NOTE ON GODAN APPLICATIONS
Application and payment must be complete and received 6 months prior to grading to be eligible for grading. Late applications will not be accepted as per Senate decision December 2012.
GRADING SHEETS
For pre-grading workouts the Summary of Grading forms are available for download here.
FEES
Grading Fee: $35.00
Taxes and Administration Fee: $65.00
TOTAL: $100.00 (for all Provinces)
ABOUT SWKKF GRADINGS
The SWKKF conducts Black Belt Gradings across Canada hosted by various clubs. These Black Belt gradings are conducted by a jōseki Board, which include ranking members of the SWKKF and is overseen by a member appointed by the jōseki Board Executive Committee. A student's first black belt grading (Shodan), and higher dans later on, are considered momentous and important events. Preparation in the months prior to the grading must be taken seriously, attend every class, practice the Katas diligently, seek correction constantly, and train hard. If a student has other events occurring in their life that prevents a total commitment to grading preparation, then the student must wait until a commitment of time and effort can be made. Training only a few times a month with no other contribution to Karate suggests that the student is comfortable at their current dan level and will stay there for the foreseeable future.