Action list for the 2025 Black Belt Testing Preview

• While we will keep the combination of verbal and written feedback, we will make strides to get the information out more smoothly. This includes, but not limited to:

  1. Judges training prior to the black belt preview. Realistically, this will probably be in the form of a Multi-Dojo Instructor’s working in the fall/winter of 2024.

  2. A quick huddle with the head judge to make sure all the judges are on the same page.

  3. A preframe from master of ceremonies to get everyone in the same mindset

• We will redesign the layout to allow more individual performances of the candidates. this will include, but not be limited to:

  • Adding a judging table in each room, with fewer judges on each table

  • Allowing a small pause between performances

• We will continue to have electronic and hand-writing options for the written feedback, as long as the judges finish their notes electronically.

  • to assist with this, there will be a link to the videos taken on the preview

• To help streamline the preview, Senseis AND candidates will both be responsible for

  • submit known limitations/diagnosed conditions prior to the preview. This will cause some overlap, but it will be better than not getting the information to the judges.

  • Collecting and submitting headshots at least two weeks prior to the Preview

• Overall, the preview was a stunning success. We will work hard to keep the same “feel” of the event. I.s. “this is not a test, this is the first time the judges will be seeing you.” Going along with this thought process. we will keep everyone in gis.