Andrew Yiannakis, Ph.D.
7th Dan, Jujutsu (USJJF, AJA)
6ht Dan, Judo (USJJF)
For black belts (especially Nidan and higher) rank in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is an indicator that reflects accomplishment, development and understandings in SIX key areas. These are:
(I) Commitment and dedication to the system
(II) Technical Expertise or the ability to demonstrate/execute technique at a level approriate to the rank in
question
(III) Depth of Technical and Theoretical Knowledge (technical principles and theory of technique execution)
(e.g., history, philosophy, etc.)
(IV) Contributions to the Art through teaching, giving seminars/workshops, research, publications and
presentations, service and club leadership
(V) Psychological Growth (Perfection of Character), Martial Maturity and theDevelopment of Ki Power as
reflected in the degree to which the jujutsuka adheres to the Universal Guiding Principles of the System, the development
of inner strength, the ability to use multiple sources of power effectively (especially Ki Power), and the demonstration
of control, discipline, responsibility and loyalty to one's sensei.
An extremely important concept in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu, especially because the techniques we learn and practice are often dangerous and require the development of high levels of self control. When used irresponsibly such techniques/skills can cause severe injury, or death, and can bring shame to the system and its Sensei. In promoting students, therefore, Martial Maturity is an important criterion that helps examiners determine whether a candidate is ready for a higher rank. This is one reason, for example, why one may not be promoted to black belt before the age of 18, at the very least.
may be demonstrated in some (among others) of the following ways:
1. Candidate practices "partner safety" when engaging in randori, or simply training with others
2. Candidates shows concern for the safety and welfare of lower ranks
3. Candidate always keeps his word
4. Candidate adheres to the system's health and hygiene practices and keeps his/her gi clean at all times
5. Candidate shows proper respect to other students, his/her superiors, and the dojo
6. Candidate adheres to proper dojo practices (always wears zori from the dressing room to the edge of the mat, bows
before stepping on and off the mat, and the like)
7. Candidate demonstrates a positive learning attitude, accepts criticism gracefully and always thanks the higher
ranks who take time out to help him/her
8. Candidate demonstrates a level of humility in and out of the dojo regardless of how brilliant or powerful he/she
may be
9. Candidate does not engage in the practice of making excuses for continually coming late to class, for failing to
help with the mats, and for continually demonstrating behaviors that reflect poorly on himself/herself and the system.
In addition, complainers and whiners should not be tolerated.
10. A major aspect of Martial Maturity is demonstrated by a student's willingness to learn from his/her sensei and the
higher ranks and modify his/her behavior and attitude accordingly. One clear type of immaturity is the
"beginner know-it-all" or the student who feels he/she must prove himself and persists in engaging in aggressive
sparring behaviors (e.g., that may injure or hurt other students) that are clearly incompatible with the best teachings
and higher goals of the system. Such individuals do not belong in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu.
In most traditional martial arts duties and obligations characterize what black belt holders should know and demonstrate. Upon crossing the threshold from mudansha to yudansha a student enters a completely different world; a world characterized by a mixture of power and privilege, as well as a world characterized by duties, obligations and responsibilities. Most can't handle, or are unable to balance the pressures and demands from family, work, school, relationships, and the like, and as a result can't function properly in their status as black belt holders. These invariably drop out. The few that do make it, especially in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu, are super gifted individuals who are characterized by high levels of self discipline, focus, determination, achievements/accomplishments in multiple areas of life, and above all, who possess a sense of honor. An attribute that is often viewed by uninformed outsiders as anachronistic in a world of hedonism, materialism and opportunism.
1. Always support your sensei, as needed
2. Help lower ranks and other students without waiting to be asked
3. Arrive at the dojo a little early and leave a little later
4. Demonstrate proactive behavior; volunteer without being asked
5. Provide leadership
6. Always behave in ways that set an example for others to emulate
7. Willingly serve on committees, when necessary
8. Help the club to promote activities, lectures or special events
9. Offer to teach as often as possible; start your own class when possible
(VI) Strong Offensive/Defensive Skills. Candidate must be able to hold his/her own in randori against individuals of equivalent rank
There is no question that the few that make it into the black belt ranks in traditional systems, and especially in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu, are special, gifted and talented, and as a result of their superior martial arts training they can succeed in almost anything they put their mind to. It is not surprising, therefore, that black belts in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu are accorded a considerable amount of respect and help serve as models of emulation to others of lower rank. Finally, their quiet self confidence, discipline, determination and reliability carry over into other spheres of life and help command respect and admiration.
It must be stressed that these are ideal goals that ALL in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu must work toward. Instructors may employ quantifiable standards or points (e.g., attendance points) for evaluating candidates for promotion but should collaborate with other high ranking instructors in the system to reach a "Professional Consensus" about whether a particular candidate merits promotion in accordance with the above ideals.
Finally, no person in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu will receive promotion from any sanctioned instructor in the system if their level of Technical Expertise fails to match the rank level they are being tested for. However, while not minimizing the importance of Technical Expertise, after age 60 greater emphasis should be placed on Depth of Technical Knowledge, Contributions to the Art, Quality of Movement, Maturity and "Perfection of Character" and the development of multiple sources of power, especially Ki Power (see Sources of Power in "System, Philosophy and Principles").
The general criteria for promoting mudansha (non black belts) are as follows:
(i) Student demostrates technique quality appropriate to the rank level they are being promoted to
(ii) Demonstrates a positive attitude, is eager to learn, accepts criticism and cares for the safety of others
(iii) Demonstrates commitment through regular attendance
(iv) Student is able to hold his/her own in kumite/randori against students of equivalent rank
(v) Demonstrates quality of movement appropriate to his/her rank level