UBDO24
2024 BLACK BELT TESTING SETUP
The 2024 testing process will using a modified approach to the testing process. Mostly the adjustment would be verbally. the whole process (extra inner-dojo training, Cross-dojo training, preview and review) being called the “Black Belt Test” rather than just one day itself.
The six components of the Black Belt Test:
Black Belt Testing Cross-Dojo Training beginning in January and ending in May. All candidates required to make a total of ten“off-site” classes.
Black Belt Testing Preview on January 20th at the Atkinson dojo. This is for all candidates Sandan/Level Three and below. Functionally this will be something similar to our old “pretest,” but with the option of “passing” select certain high performers. Those “high-performers” are still required to finish their “off-site” training classes.
PLEASE LET EVERYONE KNOW THAT THEY MUST REGISTER FOR TRAINING IN ORDER TO BE A PART OF THE PREVIEW (CLICK HERE)
Black Belt Testing Review on March 23rd at the DoubleTree in Manchester. This will be followed by a training seminar for all black belts in the association. Will also serve a s a kick-off for Mr. D’s 50th anniversary of Buzz Durkin’s Uechi Karate School (see below)
Black Belt Testing Post Review on Saturday June 1st, for those who need a little extra work.
Black Belt Testing Provisional Status, which is the final phase between the REVIEW and the GRADUATION. Commonly referred to as “HO” (i.e. Shodan-Ho), where the candidates demonstrate that they will continue the lifestyle of the rank that they have worked up to.
Black Belt Graduation Ceremony on September 14th, 2024 at the Double-Tree. This is where they receive their belts and diplomas. All candidates will (as part of the black belt testing fee) be invited to the training after the graduate rehearsal at noon time and will receive discounted rates for the rest of the weekend, if they choose to participate in more.
The mentality behind this setup is to allow MORE people to come back to the REVIEW and POST REVIEW segments of the testing, without the stigma of “failing.” In the PREVIEW phase, it will be expected that EVERYONE will be asked to come to the REVIEW event. Those superstars who we really don’t need to see in a formal environment again, will still be expected to continue the Training at multiple dojos. Additionally, “weeding” the superstars out early will allow us as Senseis to focus our attention to those who need the extra training the most.
Testing and Training - March 23rd, 2024
With COVID (more or less) safely behind us, we are looking at thoughts for running an Intramural. We were offered a spot at the Double-Tree in the EXPO center (image below). This is almost 30,000 sq feet which will allow for very easy visibility for all participants and parents. there will also be changing rooms and fantastic bathroom facilities nearby. Great place for the Intramural, but the date (March 23rd) will be more in line with Mr. D’s 50th anniversary of Buzz Durkin’s Uechi Karate School.
As such, we will be using this place on March 23rd is to host a black belt testing, followed by a training seminar just specific for the black belts of this organization.
