Friday, June 24, 2011

Summer Youth Combatives Camp

We just completed our summer 2011 combatives camp.  The kids and instructors all had a great time.  Some of the activities during the camp included, "Bully Battles", Jiu-Jitsu Training, Japanese Calligraphy,  Bullysafe and Stranger Awareness Discussions, Sensei Carter's Famous "Circle of Pain", an action packed grappling tournament, and good ole' fashion dodge ball.  Needless to say we had a blast.  We introduced "animal movement" this summer, where kids would move up and down the length of the mats mimicking various animals.  My personal favorite was the gorilla run.  I think the kids liked watching me and my assistants demonstrating the different movements.  Especially the duck walk and kangaroo hop.  Another highlight of the week was a new activity called "Battle Sticks".  This is where each kid got to take me on and battle it out with pugil sticks (the two ended staff).  Of course the two ends are padded foam and the kids all wore protective gear.  They certainly got in some nice shots. 

I want to thank Matthew Palmer (Sienna's Dad) for coming by on Wednesday to teach as about Japanese culture.  Everyone loved learning how to write in Japanese.  Stay tuned for our Japanese Culture Night at the dojo where we will learn more about the Japanese traditions, make sushi, and have other activities.


We topped the camp off with the grappling tournament on the last day.  The kids were excited all week for this event.  We learned valuable ground-defense skills throughout the week that were put to the test during our tournament.  All the kids showed, poise, character and good sportsmanship.  It was very exciting to watch, coach and referee this activity.  All the kids performed exceptionally well and appreciated the medals they earned.  I was a very proud Sensei after all was said and done.

I want to thank all the kids and instructors for attending our camp and I look forward to seeing everyone next year!

Japanese Story Time

Fun with Jiu-Jitsu

Top Control
Proud Calligraphers

Bullysafe Lesson

Sensei making his point

All smiles


Sportsmanship

Competitive Spirit

Japanese Calligraphy
Tournament Medals



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