School Black Belt Testing September 23, 2000 After years of preparation and dedication, six individuals tested and earned their new rank. Three to 1st Degree Black Belt and three more to 2nd Degree Black Belt in the American Eagle Style of martial Arts. Chad Muller is now a 1st Degree Black Belt Judy Merren is now a 1st Degree Black Belt Robert Pagano is now a 1st Degree Black Belt Travis Donley is now a 2nd Degree Black Belt Brian Lindstrom is now a 2nd Degree Black Belt Marilyn Stalloch is now a 2nd Degree Black Belt Left to right front row new fist degrees: Judy Merren, Chad Muller and Robert Pagano. Left to right back row new second degrees: Travis Donley, Brian Lindstrom and Marilyn Stalloch. The rank of first degree black belt in the martial arts, whether it be in Japan, Korea, China or the United States, is recognized as one of the most prestigious rank there is. Yes, there are 10 levels of black belt in many styles, but first degree or first level black belt is the milestone of achievement for the normal martial arts practitioner. In the American Martial Arts Institute the average time to earn this rank is five to six years. Some schools surround this testing with secrecy and fear. Rather than a test of skill and ability, it becomes cultush with hazing. The American Martial Arts Institute sees this testing as a time of demonstrating knowledge learned and the opportunity to learn more. Students are allowed to talk about their testing and the achievement. the areas tested are many and the areas emphasized do change with each testing as well as the 45 minute written exam. The test involves a demonstration of forms, kicks, sparring against one, then two and then three opponents simultaneously, breaking wood and, most importantly, the demonstration of up to 16 different katas or forms. The test for the above-mentioned people started at 12:30 p.m. and was over at 5:00 p.m. The judging panel was made up of seven titled Black Belt Instructors. This group was headed up by Grand Master Crandall. The individuals testing for second degree were required to demonstrate two weapons forms plus an additional three advanced black belt katas. Those testing for second degree also sparred four opponents. CONGRATULATIONS to all of the individuals who tested and to their instructors in the achievement of these very prestigious ranks. All testings are posted at all training locations as well as on our school web site.