--- In shaolinkempo@yahoogroups.com, dimmaktimmah <no_reply@...> wrote:
>
> I do think that with the communication brought about by email,
> websites, and forums such as this goup, this may very well be a
> golden age for SKK. You have spoken in regards to more
> standardization of some of SKK... who will be the person/group
> willing to step forward and initiate that change... how will this
> person/group react to resistance?
>

Honestly, I don't know who will be the person or group that initiates
standards and creates an open list of requirements that any instructor
can use. That person/group would need a tough hide as I'm sure there's
lots of folks willing to resist the change and cry foul.

Is there someone that 80% of the community trusts? That should be the
first criterion. The second is someone who has a breath of the
material and understanding to establish a clear path or guidelines.
The JKA did it for Japan Karate-do. I don't see why SKKers can't do it
too.

What would be really cool is some sort of filter or organization for
the many kempos that are taught. they may not be a requirement but
they should have some structure like beginning, intermediate and
advanced level techs. Or tiger, crane, etc. something to give it
structure. Even "this is found in X kata" would be helpful.

Another area that needs a lot of help or clarity is the black belt
levels. What are the kata and techniques that each level should have
at minimum? This would help out a lot. Do you add the material from
USSD, spin offs and hybrid schools?

Also testing procedures should be established. In my area, master
instructors from any style can test other instructors or black belts
in an inter-school test. They contact the candidates' styles'
association for a list of requirements -- then checks them off during
the test. We've had TKD, Kempo, Kajukenbo and Karate-ka all at one
test. The sparring portion was most exciting.

This would help those in remote areas from other SKK folks. Some may
bauk at that type of testing but it would give some standards for our
yudansha. Maybe there's a better way of doing, like live tests only or
via video. (shrug)

These are just my ideas that I kick around my brain. With all the
independent schools, something needs to be done to clear the confusion
up. Perhaps if there's interest, I'll cobble together a rough draft of
what I think should go into this standards. Then we can discuss, add
and debate it for a while.

Just food for thought.

Sifu Bryan