DojoNews-

The new Seika Kage Ryu Kempo Jiu Jitsu belt system and testing format went into place March 8th when eight students were promoted. Proving the system is already showing significant improvements in both knowledge base and performance, all those candidates had stellar performances while demonstrating their knowledge of the material. The very challenging test was run by by Sensei Alex Amador, and a distinguished panel of black belts, with Sensei Schwinn observing from the side. The following promotions were made:

• Matt Blankenheim - Yonkyu / Green Belt
• Vanessa Joseph-Phillips - Rokyu / Purple Belt
  
• Anthoney Lopez - Rokyu / Purple Belt
  
• Javier Plascencia - Shichikyu / Orange Belt
  
• Aaron Burt - Shichikyu / Orange Belt
  
• Nick Denicke - Shichikyu / Orange Belt
  
• Steven Denicke - Shichikyu / Orange Belt
  
• Kortney Olson - Hachikyu / Yellow Belt
  
• Devin Romo - Hachikyu / Yellow Belt
  

In the largest and most competitive judo tournament in Northern California, the Seika Ryu crew showed up to give their best. Ivan Rodriguez took silver, Gabe Mulcaire, Justin Owen, and SRJC player Devin Romo took bronze, and Elita Damron placed fourth in a very competitive division.

The "Buddhist" is what we consider the final tournament of the year, the culmination of all our hard work and training. Although we lose some of our judocompetitors to high school and junior college sports (wrestling) at this time, the list of players over the year has steadily grown. Individual performances in shiai has improved at a consistent rate. Even with promotion to higher ranks our students have shown a strong and consistent develpment into quality competitive judoka.

Thanks should be given to the coaches and instructors who have played a big part in our judo program over the years. Special thanks to the following for all of their wonderful contributions: Bob Pennington, Josh Baum, Destinee Tartuffe, Katie Tefft, Dennis McCarter, Eric Brooks, Matt Blankenheim, Dale Kahoun, Brian O'Hara, and of course our beloved Professor Charlie Robinson.

Devastated by illness, injury and emergencies, our grand team of 19 competitors dwindled down to 5; but those five put on a display of judo skill that would have made Dr. Kano proud. The Romo sisters, Tia and Devin, SRJC players but who rode down with us, Cierra Beltran, Ivan Rodriguez, and Gabe Mulcaire came to play. Total days results 9-2!!! Three golds and a silver. Did we mention that Ivan won all three of his matches in less than 18 seconds, all by ippons throws. The first match was over in four seconds with an uchi mata. San Jose, look out!

This was a momentus occasion: Seika Ryu Martial Arts held it's first, fully organized and sanctioned judo testing. In front of a highly distingueshed panel of black belts, Seika Ryu Judo Club members and a couple SRJC students tested for varying ranks and cerifications.

The days activities were watched over and conducted by our beloved and honored senior judo sensei, Hachidan/Eigth Degree Black Belt, Professor Charlie Robinson. The members of the panel included were as follows:

• Professor Charlie Robinson - Hachidan/Eight Degree Black Belt
  
• Sensei Lanny Watkins - Rokudan/Sixth Degree Black Belt
  
• Sensei Brian O'Hara - Rokudan/Sixth Degree Black Belt
  
• Sensei Dale Kalhoun - Sandan/Third Degree Black Belt
  
• Sensei Hans Ingebretsen - Sandan/Third Degree Black Belt
  
• Sensei Katie Teftt - Sandan/Third Degree Black Belt
  
• Sensei Dave Barlow - Nidan/Second Degree Black Belt
  
• Sensei Destinee Tartuffe - Nidan/Second Degree Black Belt
  
• Mr. Joe Sapp - Nidan/Second Degree Black Belt
  

Robinson Sensei, showing a degree of pride in the students he has taught and mentored over the years, ran the students through their material. The test was conducted under the strict guidelines of the United States Judoi Association criteria

The following rank promotions were awarded at the examination:

• Eric Brooks - Shodan/1st Degree Black Belt
  
• Matthew Blankenheim - Shodan/1st Degree Black Belt
  
• Zane Kesicker- - Nikyu/Brown II
  
• Tia Romo - Gokyu/Orange Belt
• Devin Romo - Gokyu/Orange Belt
• Ivan Rodriguez - Rokyu/Yellow Belt
• Brenton Sorenson - Rokyu/Yellow Belt
• Gabe Mulcaire - Rokyu/Yellow Belt
• Four others tested but no paper work turned in

To celebrate our martial art community, the camaraderie that comes from training together, and to enjoy each others company while the kids played, for the second year we all met at the Funky Monkey, owned by Seika Ryu's own Lisa Shatnawi and her husband, Mussah. About 40 students, friends, and family showed up. Plenty of pizza and beverages, plus a mountain of tokens for fun and games were liberally available. One highlight was the showdown between Sensei Schwinn and Master Crouch on the AirHockey table... battle royale! We want to give a special thanks to the consciencious effort of Larry Moody, grandfather of Cassie Valentine, who collected our recylced cans and bottlesand turned them in for cash that we used to put on the party. Larry is one of a kind. Make sure to say, "Thanks" next time you see him.

Devastated by illness, injury and emergencies, our grand team of 19 competitors dwindled down to 5; but those five put on a display of judo skill that would have made Dr. Kano proud. The Romo sisters, Tia and Devin, SRJC players but who rode down with us, Cierra Beltran, Ivan Rodriguez, and Gabe Mulcaire came to play. Total days results 9-2!!! Three golds and a silver. Did we mention that Ivan won all three of his matches in less than 18 seconds, all by ippons throws. The first match was over in four seconds with an uchi mata. San Jose, look out!

At the crack of dawn, six judoka representing Santa Rosa drove down to Palo Alto to compete in a judo tournament. Two newbies, Gabe Mulcaire and Brendon Sorensen, got their feet wet and competed in their first judo tournament. Other competitors included Avesta Sabetian, Ivan Rodriguez, Tia Romo, Devin Romo, and Matt Blankenheim. Supported by sister school, Shinbukan, students and coaches, the collective group showed great "bushido" (warrior spirit) and fought every match with vigorous intensity. Competition was solid and medals were won (two gold, one silver, & one bronze) and brought home. Afterwards everyone went out for pizza in downtown Palo Alto. Sore, tired, and victorious in body and spirit, we headed north and put another challenge to rest.

This was our sixth (6th) tournament of the year. Not bad for a program that one year ago had two students in it. Here is to all those students, competitors, instructors, parents, and supporters who have put forth the effort to make this program a success. Bravo!

Watch out CCSF... here we come!!!

Three students, Brian Silva, Aaron Burt, and Justin Owen, came into a test prepared to show their best stuff. Sensei Schwinn sat down and then informed them their test would be based on the showing of one form. Period. With widened eyes the students bowed in, warmed up, and then were given the opportunity to pick the form they were going to show. They were then given the opportunity to practice the selected form for 15 minutes. When they thougth they were all ready, Sensei Schwinn suddenly changed all the forms they had each selected. You should have seen the looks on their faces! Sensei then told them after they had performed the newly directed kata they would be given the opportunity to take the performance they had just done or discard it and try again. In either case they were to rest their entire test on their performace of a form they had not practiced right before. One by one they did their kat and sweated it out while Sensei mediatetd on their effort. What pressure, what a challenge. Oh, yeah, everyone passed. Whew! Congratulations! Are YOU ready for your next test?

In one of the friendliest local martial arts events in Northern California over 120 competitors, their instructors, coaches, families, and friends gathered on an awesome fall day to put forth their very best efforts in kata/forms, kumite/sparring, bujustsu/weapon forms, budo waza/self-defense techinues, and shiai/ grappling competition...and they did just that! The tournament started aorund 9:00 am and finished before 5:30pm.

Some of the tournament highlights included having competitors ranging in age from 5 to 60, 13 schools being represented, 18 black belts competed in various divisions, last years black belt mens open sparring champion, Mr. Noah Nunez, defending his title, great judging, and a tremendous spectator crowd cheering on everyone; the day was a huge success.

Most impressive was the intensity and high level of competition, while at the same time competitors being tremendously supportive of each other. More than once did was seen fellow competitors acknowledge a good performance of their opponent or division advesary. Instructors and coaches congratulated each other on the high level of proficiency and performance of each other's students, parents from different schools seeing familiar faces and making new (or renewing) friendships, and of course competitors establsihing or renewing rivalries of martial spirit and camaraderie. Applause was plentiful and loud.

Judges worked hard and staff was happy and helpful. All were rewarded for their hard work with food and beverages during the day. Great day.... see y'all next year!

The 1st Northern California Kenpo Ohana was held at Seika Ryu Martial Arts. With some top level instructors from around California and well over 50 attendees, the event was quite the opportunity to meet and train with fellow kenpoists. Showing a broad range of techniques and perspectives to our shared art, the group was busy from 10:00am until 6:00pm. Each instructor's material seemed to meld into what the other taught. The beauty, power, and effectiveness of the art of kenpo/kempo was made evident.
Sigung Steve LaBounty's, Grandmaster Ron Chapel's, and Professor Ted Sumner's, depth of knowledge was evident, as was their passion for the art. Getting to share but a small piece of their kenpo is always a tease, but the method in which they share the concept of a technique is what excites and urges us all on. The "junior" intructors, Mr. Dan Cuthberson, and Dr. David Couch gave great info from some of the "younger" view points. Overall, learning from this list of advanced technicians kenpo concepts such as punching techniques on-line and off line, techniques from the side mount, sticks, balance techniques, muscle reassignment and sensory triggers, specific nerve strikes and targeting with special effects, and the intensity of a defense and entry from the knee up position.... plus a hamburger or hot dog and beverage... all for $10 BAM!!!. Next one in the spring!

The Golden State judo tournament was an event that provided many experiences for our judo team. A large contingency of the group attended a seminar at Professor Gary Goltz' judo club on Saturday and then went to "team build" by crashing bumper boats into each other, racing go-carts, and such other wildness as could be found at Boomers in Ontario, CA. The next day, everyone showed up at the tournament prepared and focused. It was a long day and there were both triumphs and a few "learning experiences" on the mat. We came home with four trophies from one of the toughest judo competitions in the western United States. Congratulations to the following competitors for their effort and courage in daring to step up to the line, bow, and give it their best!

Camp Bushido, Professor Charlie Robinson's annual judo and jiu jitsu event, was quite simply one of the best yet.

After 21 years at the same location, the new owners of the previous camp location (Camp Paradise in Clipper Mills, CA) informed Professor Robinson halfway through last years judo camp they were doubling the rate even though the camp had fallen into further disrepair and additional charges were already being tacked on. Obviouusly they did not want us back. So started the search for a new location. Sensei Schwinn spearheaded the effort to find new digs. After an exhaustive search, a false start at another disorganized outfit, we located the new location; Old Oak Ranch in Sonora, CA.

The guest instructors, Sensei George Weers and Sensei Roy Hash, were absolutely great. The perennial favorite mat drill sargeants, Mark & Lisa Guerrero, kept the classes moving. Charlie ran his crack-of-dawn 6:30am class, but this time he walked in to a full room of 36 students, instead of the usual 10-12. Sensei Hans Ingebretsen and Sensei Dale Kahoun took turns teaching the adult and kids jiu jitsu classes.

The new location was a tremendous step up in accommodations. Each room had a private or semi-private bath (unlike the communal baths before), had air conditioning and an outside entry door (unlike the stiffling hot rooms and dark hallway entries of before), and had mattresses that actually supported when you laid on them (unlike the taco shells of before). The new facility has it's own separate pool, two workout rooms (also air conditioned) - one for kids, one for adults, and a large separate room for reception, meetings, breaks, and snack bar. The facility was clean, kept up, and almost everything worked (one coffee machine broke the first day).

Meals were served in an outdoor tent surrounded by the woods. Although camp food is camp food, it was realatively good, plentiful, nutritionally balanced, and kept everyone's necessary calorie intake high enough to do the strenuous judo and jiu jitsu workouts morning-noon-and night. Friends were made, kids got to be kids, and adults enjoyed each others company during breaks. Swimming, games, and evening snacks made the week long camp a special, warm, life changing event.

The focus was on the martial arts of judo and jiu jitsu. Kids and adults alike learned new techniques and randori-ed until they could go no more. Adults practiced a systemized judo training regimine set out by George Weers. Everyone got down and did mat work with Roy Hash. Promotions were made and a black belt demonstration of nage-no-kata held the last evening closed out the camp.

Seika Ryu had youngsters Justin Owen and Jake Nguyen, teenagers Terry Swaney, Avesta Sabetian, and Troy Ngyen, and adults Jovani Alvarez, Matt Blankenheim, Tia Romo, Devon Romo, Debbie Goodman, Chau Nguyen, and Sensei Joa Schwinn (assistant camp director) all went and trained.

Again, simply put, one of the best yet and the promise of even better things next year.

Sensei Joa Schwinn, Sensei Jennifer King, Sensei Stacy Powell, and Mr. Stephan Pendas watch a small group of candidates show their skills and test for their next belt rank. Congratulations to the following students who tested and received their respective belt rank promotions:

At 9:00am on a wonderful summer Saturday morning over sixty martial artists came to show their skills at Seika Ryu Martial Arts. Primarily a kempo/kenpo/kajukenbo (and similar styles) invitational martial arts tournament, the competition was for kyu ranks only (no black belts). Sensei Tom Porter's school, Porter's Kenpo Academy, came in force. Shinbukan Dojo, under the watchful eye of Sensei Hans Ingebretsen, were well represented. Of course, the three Seika Ryu schools were there to make for a highly competitive day. Kata/forms, kumite/point sparring, and shiai/grappling were the events.

From the start the competition was keen. When the 3 1/2 to 5 year olds showed their forms, the judges could not pick a winner and all received gold medals. From there on, every division was demonstrations of strong martial skill and spirit. From the beginners youth katas to the adult advanced grappling divisions, evryone brought their best. These truly are the black belts of the future!

Black belts from all the school help judge and keep the event flowing smoothly. Concessions kept the hungry happy and there seemed to be barely enough rooms for the spectators, but everyone got to watch and cheer for their favorites.

In a one of those moments that will make a difference in a young persons life, Professor Charlie Robinson, eighth degree black belt, put a special blue ribbon medal award around a young man's neck. Christian Rodrigez, one of Sensei Alex Amador's students, was the youngest first time sparring competitor. Not only did he continue to compete after being hurt, he showed great sportmanship by congratulating all his fellow opponents. Professor Robinson recalled his first day of combat remarking it is not something anyone ever forgets; a life changing moment.

After the tournament Toms Porter's school held a testing and then the BBQ fired up at 5:00pm. Sensei Schwinn took his annual position at the BBQ and proferred hamburgers and hotdogs for anyone standing closeby. Music, a warm summer day, and good people who also happened to be good martial artists closed out another day at Seika Ryu.

Afterwards, when all was done, Sensei Schwinn, now another year wiser, was sentimental in his acknowledgement and gratitude for everyone who has been part of the Seika Ryu tournament over the years. A special thank you this year goes to Elisa Semmons whose energy and help throughout the day was noted by all, and who stayed to the end and did more than her share of the clean up. Congratulations to everyone who competed, a high five to those who took home medals, and a heartfelt thanks to the teachers, black belts, and staff who help make this event a good thing. Hope everyone like the food. Looking forward to next year.

Fifty four campers! Holy Moly! Two boats, seven camp sites, a whole bunch of tents and sleeping bags, a baby, a pile of kids and teens, young adults, parents, two dogs, a trailer, a guitar, campfires, s'mores, sodas, hotdogs, 90+ degree weather, a lake, and good energy mad up a fun filled weekend. The inaugural Seika Ryu Dojo Campout was a resounding success. Old hnd campers and newbies alike enjoyed the camaraderie, lazy warm summer day, star filled nights, and some fun on the water. Organized by Holly West and Lisa Shatnawi, a host of others joined in to make the event a great weekend. Coach Ponsak and Zayah Pettit-Wood brought their boats. The Swaneys brought a small village, and Sensei Schwionn provided dinner on Saturday night. It was a unanimous decision to do it again next year. Good job everyone and pass the aloe vera... this sunburn hurts!

Sensei Destinee Tartuffe, Nidan/Second Degree Black Belt, won the World Masters Judo Championship, Women's under 70kg 40+ years division by defeating the Brazilian representative in the finals to bring home a gold medal. Ms. Tartuffe, the Chief judo instructor at Seika Ryu Martial Arts, and an instructor at the Santa Rosa JC, had practiced and trained diligently over the last three months to prepare for the trip. This was her third trip to the World Master Championships having competed in Austria (2004) and Canada (2005). Immediately before her trip Ms. Tartuffe sustained an injury which could have affected her ability to compete. With steely jawed determination she rehabbed and worked through the pain to achieve her ulimate victory. We are all proud of Destinee and the example she sets for us. Everyone give her a pat on the back when you see her; she desrves it We are lucky to have her training with us.

On a beautiful June afternoon an intrepid group of students gathered to learn some incredible eskrima techniques from Suro Jason Inay - Chief Instructor of the Inayan System fo Eskrima. Suro Inay is the son of Mangisuuro Michael Inay, founder of Inayan System of Eskrima. Sharing from his broad knowledge of many martial styles, Suro Inay demostrated techniques and lock flows. Beyond teaching just the motion, Suro Inay touched upon one of the most important parts of studying any martial arts; that is to learn the concept, not just the motion.Teaching both open hand and weapon techniques, the seminar was only two hours, but the information was the type that is kept for a lifetime. We look forward to Suro Inay returning for a deeper look into the awesome martial art of eskrima and his Inayan style.

A distinguished panel of black belts watched both a lower kyu rank and a group of brown belt candidates present their Seika Kage Ryu Kempo Jiu Jitsu skills. On the panel were Sensei Joa Schwinn - 4th Degree Black Belt, Sensei Stacy Powell - 3rd Degree Black Belt, Mrs. Jennifer King - 2nd Degree black Belt, and Mr. Ivan Rodriguez - 1st Degree Black Belt. The panel was very focused and demanded strong demonsrations of students' knowledge. Congratulations to the following students who tested and received their respective belt rank promotions:

Seika Ryu Judo arrived in force at the City College of San Francisco Spring Judo Tournament. The tournamnt was held over two days with nearly 400 registered competitors. The adult kyu ranks competed on Saturday, with the kids and black belts rolling on Sunday. Add coaches, spectators, and staff... and this place was smokin'. Not all tournaments are run smoothly or have good judging. This tournament fell into the opposite catagory; judging was consistent and generally sharp. Registration and pooling were easy and well run. A great job was done in pooling the belt and weight divisions. Even keeping the spectators organized seemed to fall into place.

Many of the Seika Ryu judoka were first time competitors. The coaching by Seika Ryu stff was a huge help to every competitor. Often there were two, three, and on one occasion, four Seika Ryu coaches guiding a competitor in one of the four rings. The parents and staff kept our group together and alert to the announcements. Connecting with our big brother/sister school, Santa Rosa Junior College, and our sister school Shinbukan, our collective was loud and supportive when our players were on the mat. The energy was high and it showed in our match performance.

There were so many highlights it would be to much to put them all in here. However, of significant note were three first time competitors toaking first place; Ivan Rodriguez, Avesta Sabetian, and Jim Sarenas. Everyone had tough fights and often some of our crew went against each other. The competitive spirit was strong with aggressive attacking and solid techniques.

The Seika Ryu Judo program has gone from one student on the mat with Sensei Schwinn in October 2006 to (as of this post) 28 registered USJA members and a judo class with rarely less than 15 people on the floor. Coaching and curriculum are evolving to meet the needs of the students, promotions are occuring with regularity, and the competition schedule has expanded by one tournament for the next twelve months. SRJC students often stop in to train and help out. Sensei/Coach Terry Kelly stopped in a few weeks ago to help out some of our top national female judoka who were training. Sit down, strap in, and hold on... this program is ON THE MOVE!

The following students competed:

Also hanging with us most of the weekend, and competing were SRJC players:

What was all the hootin' and hollerin' about down at the dojo??? Sensei Ben Brown of North Bay Martial Arts & Fitness brought his well trained and always respectful students to train with students of the new muay thai program at Seika Ryu Martial Arts, headed by Muay Boran (pronounced = "boo-lawn") instructor Ponsak Luerngchaimongkol. Twelve fighters, one ring, a pile of sparring safety equipment, and a host of instructors, coaches, trainers, family, and friends were on hand to watch muay thai sparring (modified rules) between students of North Bay Martial Arts & Fitness and Seika Ryu Martial Arts on Saturday, April 28 2007 at the Seika Ryu hombu dojo in Santa Rosa, CA. The match ups were well balanced and the athletes did a great job in displaying their skills.

Safety and protection of the students was of the top concern. The participants were not fighting for a win-loss record, extra safety equipment was mandatory, and the matches were a maximum of three - one minute rounds. The referee, Patrick Nagle, did a great job of making sure no one got in any serious trouble. Two matches were stopped early and three went the distance. Everyone was cheered loudly and each athlete had their hand raised at the end of the match.

The following students competed:
Riley Regular (NB) vs. John Pendas (SR)
Vanessa Joseph-Phillips (SR) vs. Erin Ameral (NB)
Kyle Norman (NB) vs. Justin Scott (SR)
Zayah Pettitt-Wood (SR) vs. Nick Katchmier (NB)
Daniel March Banks (NB) vs. Orlando Redden (SR/Zoku)

North Bay Martial Arts & Fitness = (NB) & Seika Ryu Martial Arts = (SR)

In addition to the sparring match-ups, Seika Ryu Martial Arts students, Ricky Russell and Ivan Rodriguez, impressed the gathered crowd with a demonstration of muay thai. Performing the Wai Kru and Ram Muay, traditional pre-fight muay thai rituals, the pair then dazzled everyone with a tremendous choreographed exhibition of muay boran fighting techniques. Dressed in traditional mauy boran attire with mongkols and arms band, these dynamic athletes will be seen on the muay thai competition circuit in the near future.

The gathering of spectators was peppered with local martial art dignitaries, and masters from many disciplines were in attendance. Showing their appreciation for the efforts made by the contestants, the crowd donated a decent pile of money which was delivered to the Y.W.C.A Women's Shelter in the name of the two schools. There is something poetic about the athletes putting on a sparring show to benefit those who are facing some of life's greater challenges. A great night was had everyone involved...Bravo!

In a busy day at the dojo before the muay thai sparring challenge the following students were promoted to new belt ranks:

In Seika Kage Ryu Kempo Jiu Jitsu with Professor Charlie Robinson, Sensei Joa Schwinn, Mr. Ivan Rodriguez, and Mr. Stephen Pendas on the panel:

In Danzan Ryu Jiu Jitsu, with Master Dale Kalhoun, Master Hans Ingebretsen, and Sensei Annette Kalhoun on the panel:

Earlier in the month the following students were promoted to new ranks in judo by Sensei Destinee Tartuffe and Sensei Joa Schwinn:

BAM!!! Seika Ryu Martial Arts delivered a notice to the Northern California martial arts world at the 2007 Mokomoko Invitational Martial Arts Tournament held in Campbell, CA; that message... "We come to compete!" With 26 competitors from 5 year old white belts to 49 year old black belts, there is an ocean of trophies starting to accumulate at the front desk The buzz on Monday after the event was smokin'. Everyone who went had a great time. Starting the night before at the hotel and then at Dave & Buster's everyone was up for a special weekend. From the Tiny Dragon 5 year olds performing their kata's in their first tournaments to the last event where our guy, highly experienced black belt Stephen Pendas, had his nose broken but still won the 45+ black belt point sparring divisions, the competitors from Seika Ryu gave their all in the tournament.

By the end of the day Seika Ryu students had competed at every level in six divisions and distinguishing themselves by bringing home both experience, new friendships, and plenty of trophies. Our black belts helped judge, Sensei Schwinn assisted Master Ingebretsen running the tournament, and the parents and upper students help keep things rolling smooth. Ivan Rodriguez coordinated the sparring divisions and Matt Blankenheim kept the grappling divisions rolling. A special kudo was given by Sensei Ingebretsen for Mr. Patrick Nagle's refereeing.

Sensei Schwinn stated he was proud of the students and instructors in their integrity and high level of competitive spirit. Congratulations to all!

The following students competed:

Ivan Rodriguez, Stephen Pendas, Matt Blenkenheim, Holly West, Autum West, Norman Rountree, Justin Scott, Joe Piehoff, Jocelyn Owen, Tona Piehoff-Konoff, Vanessa Jospeh-Phillips, Cassie Valentine, Jim Seranas, Konrad Franco, Forest West, Justin Owen, Lauren Piehoff, John Pendas, Silja Parks, Mitchell Parks, Jayden Lim, Austin Tamba, Audie Swaney, Terry Swaney, Cory Luerngchaimongkol

The burgeoning youth judo program at Seika Ryu Martial Arts sent a team of competitors to the largest judo tournament in Northern California... the San Jose Buddhist Sensei Memorial Invitational Judo Tournament. This event is a national level point tournament where Olympic hopefuls come to compete. It also draws the largest field of competitors of any tournament on the west coast. This means that the best judoka for any respective division come to test their skills.

While the judo program has existed at Seika Ryu for over seven years, it was at the beginning of November 2006 we decided to change the focus from self-defense oriented to a competition based training. The transition has proven highly successful with competitors bringing home medals form tournaments as early as October 2006.

The tournament started off the evening before with weigh-ins at the San Jose Buddhist temple. Then the Seika Ryu group went out to dinner and have some fun with a huge team meeting of the Santa Rosa Junior College judo club. The kids, parents, and JC judoka all got to know each other and the relationships between the two programs has started to grow. Retiring to the team hotel the next morning we all got up early to have breakfast and get to the judo event.

The event was spectacular. From the opening ceremonies to the final matches, the tournament was a tremendous experience. The competition was fierce. Although Seika Ryu's team record was 4-12 for all matches on the day, it was our first big event. Every Seika Ryum judoka fought every match with commitment and their very best effort. Justin Owen brought home a bronze in his division. Coaches Destinee Tartuffe, Angela Marino, and even Professor Charlie Robinson did a great job coaching to help our young athletes put forth the best effort. The program has experienced a huge uplift from this effort and everyone is propud of our young competitors. Get ready, here come Seika Ryu judo!

The following students are to be congratulated on their great efforts!

In the last test of 2006 the following students tested and were awarded the respective new belt ranks:

This year's Deep Roots Masters Seminar was a rare opportunity to study with four world class instructors. Olohe Solomon Kaihewalu-12th Degree granndmaster of the ancient Hawaiian warrior art of Lua (Kaihewalu), Grandmaster Arthur Gonzales-10th Degree Black Belt and chief instructor of the Filipino art of escrima (DeCuerdas), Professor James Muro-10th Degree Kosho Ryu grandmaster of the venenerable art of kenpo (Chow-Hoon) and jiu jitsu (Danzan Ryu), and the beloved Professor Charlie Robinson-8th Degree judo (Kodokan) offered a small but dedicated group of martial artists some valuable insight into their special areas of magic.

Each instructor was up for nearly two hours which allowed for the techniques being taught to also be practiced with variations explored. The periods with each instructor were always enegetic as each master fed off the teaching of the other and the synergistic effect was simply amazing. From the simplest movements to the most complex of the weapon techniques the respective arts of judo, jiu jitsu, kenpo, escrima, and lua were shared and explored as could only be done with this level of instructors.

The day started at 12:00pm sharp. After four hours of intense practice the group tooka short break to have a catered lunch, and then returned to the floor for the remaining fours hours. By 8:30pm everyone was completely exhuasted and in need of some R&R. After cleaning up everyone met at the Flamingo Hotel for a dinner with the masters.

This was once again a tremendous experince for everyone involved.

On a beautiful fall day the 2006 October Challenge Martial Arts Tournament was held at the Santa Rosa High School main gymnasium. Over 100 competitors, 12 schools, 40+ judges and instructors, and an enegetic staff made for what many felt was one of the best martial art tournament experiences they had been to. Some of the styles represented included traditional karate, kenpo, tae kwon do, tang soo do, jiu jitsu, judo, and kung fu. All three of the Seika Ryu schools (Santa Rosa, Novato, and Healdsburg) were represented by some of their top students.

The camaraderie, friendly but vigorous competition, supportive and happy spectator crowd, made for a fun filled day. All the competitors under ages 12 and under received a participation medal. Most pools were small enough so that almost everyone received some form of trophy.

One of the biggest events was grapping. More than doubling in size from the previous year, the event had competitors at every level. The black belt kata divisons were held at the lunch break and provided a tremendous display of martial skills to the crowd. Sparring was at a fever pitch with great sportsmanship displayed by all. Self-defense and weapons forms were a crowd favorite with the competitors showing great skill. Judging was conscientious and consistent. Good food, cool t-shirts, and a nice location made for a great day of martial arts.

With many of the regular schools having scheduling conflicts this year, we expect to see a much larger pool of competitors in 2007. Congratulations to all the competitors from Sieka Ryu, as well as all the schools. BRAVO!

A small group of students confirmed the arrival of Danzan Jiu Jitsu at Seika Ryu Martial Arts and came to a seminar / testing under the watchful eye of Master Hans Ingebretsen. The following were promoted:

This confirms the truth of the old adage that no matter how high you get as a black belt you always remain a student. Sensei Schwinn, Sensei Amador, and Mr. Alvarez are all black belts and Mr. Blankenhiem is a 2nd degree brown belt, yet all were honored and excited about their new promotions in the art of Danzan Ryu Jiu Jitsu and the opportunity to expand their martial arts knowledge. Although there are no official classes for this program, Sensei Schwinn has studied with Master Ingebretsen over the years at various retreats, camps, seminars, and personal times. It is practiced at Open Mat. If you are interested, ask Sensei Schwinn for details. Congratulations to all.

In the smallest test in three years a dedicated but eager group of three of our youths came to be tested for new belts. With Sensei Schwinn as the only panel member the following students were promoted:

Congratulations to these dedicated students who kept at their martial arts studies during the summer months and achieved their new belts. Well done!

Showing her incredible martial arts spirit, dedication to excellence, and awesome skills, Cassie Valentine, was Seika Ryu's only representative to the Navarro's Martial Arts Tournament. She came home with a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place trophies. TeamKATANA coach Chris Williams and Cassie's biggest fan, her grandfather Larry Moody went with her. Great job Cassie. You are a true inspiration to so many of us.

A dedicated group of fighters went to compete in a full contact pankration tournament as both TeamKATANA and TeamUSA. This event was a follow up to the successes enjoyed in the European Championships in England in March 2006.

The San Diego competition was fierce and very hard hitting. Brandon Kay started the day off with win after his opponent forced to withdraw kneecap was dislocated. Cassie Valentine, after taking a brutal flying knee to the ribs in her first match, came back and won her second match of the day. Orlando Redden's second fight, which never went to the ground, went to a judge's decision for a close loss. Kyle Wallace ended getting really tough fighters. His first draw was an older, bigger, and much more experienced Gracie Jiu Jitsu fighter for a pretty quick tap-out but his second match was a tough match where Kyle fought bravely until nearly the end when his opponent forced a tap. Norman Rountree had two fights that went the distance (5 minutes) for decisions.

Overall record 2-8. Sensei Schwinn was elated! He said for a group of relatively inexperienced fighters to go compete in a tournament of this level with much more experienced pankration fighters, to have fought and win as many fight as they did, the entire team should be congratulated.

In addition to the pankration, which everyone competed in, many of the team also competed in the traditional martial arts portion of the tournament as well, bringing home many trophies for kata, continuous and point sparring, and weapon forms.

The trip was also a vacation with many friends and family along. Meeting up friends and family in the San Diego area, along with our friends from TeamUSA, the four day / three night trip was a great success. On the last day many went to the world famous San Diego Zoo, while a group went to the beach and mall. Chris Williams did a great job both organizing the trip and acting as coach on the floor.

Packed to the rafters with competitors and spectators, and with six schools represented, the 5th annual Seika Ryu Martial Arts Invitational Tournament & BBQ started promptly at 9:00 am and finished shortly after 2:00 pm. The tournament went a little longer this year as a grappling division was added. The tournament was for kyu rank students (no black belts). Competition was strong, judging was good, the level of respect shown, and fun had by all was great. Spectators and competitors alike supported great efforts regardless of the school. The Tiny Dragons were a hot event and the cute factor was unmatched, and the top level brown belt competition was sharp.

The after tournament BBQ was attended by a large group of competitors and family members to top off a great day of martial arts and to help Sensei Schwinn celebrate his birthday. Cold drinks and some music on a warm summer evening with hamburgers and hot dogs for everyone was a great ending to a great day. Thanks to everyone who helped make the day special.

On a beautiful weekend Sensei Joa Schwinn and Mr. Jovani Alvarez attended Camp Kilohana. The camp is held outside of the small community of Hydesville (10 miles southeast of Fortuna) under towering redwoods on the ranch of Sensei Richard Petrielli . Sensei Petriell runs Fusuikan Martial Arts in Eureka, a charter member school of Kilohana

The camp featured Inayan Escrima with Suro Jason Inay, including a rigorous work out and swim at Swimmer's Paradise on the Van Duzen River. Also instructing were Sensei Hans Ingebretsen sharing a Lua kata, Sensei Dale Kahoun teaching knife throwing, and Sensei Petrielli guiding cutting techniques with a live blade katana.

Beside great instruction, a fabulous Japanese feast was cooked by Jill Petielli and friends and sake was served by "Kim the Sake Angel". Camp fires, sleeping bags and tents, and news martial art friends made for an awesome weekend.

On a warm afternoon with Professor Charlie Robinson - Hachidan / 8th Degree Black Belt in attendance, along with Sensei Joa Schwinn, and Sensei Stacy Powell as the panel, the following students tested and were awarded the respective advanced ranks:

Immediately following the senior advanced belt rank testing and promotional demonstration, Professor Robinson, Master Hans Ingebretsen and Sensei Schwionn drove to Concord for a two day seminar featuring Master Bob Mashmeir-Kajukenbo, Master David Dye - Aikido, and, of course, Olohe Solomon Kaihewalu. Also in attendance were many legends of martial arts in attendance including Professor Wally Jay, Judan / 10th Degree Black Belt and Founder of Small Circle Jiu Jitsu.

A distinguished panel of Senior Advisors to Seika Ryu Martial Arts attended a specially scheduled promotional demonstration and testing held in the morning. The panel consisted of Professor Charlie Robinson - Hachidan / 8th Degree Black Belt, Master John Navarro - Hachidan / 8th Degree Black Belt, and Master Hans Ingebretsen - Rokyudan / 6th Degree Black Belt. The following promotions were awarded: