making the grade

Ben Sheppard

Kendo - Sensei

Cocurricular Program

All people who study Kendo are expected to undertake regular gradings. This is the similar to other martial arts such as Karate, Judo, Tae Kwon Do or  Aikido . The grading is a stressful occasion and it is difficult to perform at one’s best.

Several of our Cocurricular Program Kendo students attended a state grading  this September, along with more than a hundred other people of all ages, and were finally awarded their certificates last week. Congratulations to Matias (6th kyu), Zarif (6th kyu), Flynn (6th kyu), Archer (6th kyu), Isabella Munoz (5th kyu) and Eric (4th kyu).

The pictures show the actual grading session at the Kenshikan in West Melbourne, as well as the successful participants afterwards, and the rest of the 2016 Kendo co-curricular members. Well done everyone!

Third time's a Charm!

Karen Harris

Principal

Just last month BSC Kendo Sensei, Ben Sheppard, also completed his Kendo grading. But no local venue would do... Ben was required to travel to Japan in order to be graded! 

Despite intense and persistent training, Ben had been unable to attain this grading level three times previously - which demonstrates the strict skill benchmarks and incredibly high expectations of the Kendo managing body. 

This time, however, Ben was successful at passing his 6th Dan grading and we warmly  congratulate him on his diligence and persistence in his quest. 

The photos below shows the stadium where the grading was held.  1,612 people attempted the grading with only 364 people passing - a pass rate of 22.6%!  Only three non-Japanese people passed - a further testament to Ben's efforts!

In Ben's absence, Alison Sanza (Assistant Principal) very kindly supervised the co-curricular Kendo training. 

Hats off to all the Kendo students who really stepped up to the challenge - managing the training regime and conducting their classes with dedication, enthusiasm and attention to detail, even in the absence of their sensei.

It is very gratifying to see that Kendo class attendance has remained high up until the very end of the year.  Students have remained committed and focused -  working hard,  supporting and encouraging each other as well as maximising their opportunities to extend their skills. 

This all bodes very well:   2017 will be even bigger and better for Brunswick Secondary College Kendo Club!

If you would like further information about the BSC Kendo Club, just contact Mr Sheppardvia Compass.