Press Releases

After years of preparation and dedication, two individuals tested and earned their new rank in the American Eagle Style of martial arts. Cherie Mullen earned the rank of first degree black belt and Dr. Bret Jessie earned the rank of fourth degree black belt.

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. There are ten levels of black belt in many styles, but first dan is the milestone of achievement for the normal martial arts practitioner. The American Martial Arts Institute is a traditional school; therefore, the average time to earn this rank is five and one-half to seven years. Some schools surround black belt testings with secrecy and fear, rather than a test of skill and ability. The American Martial Arts Institute believes this testing is a time to demonstrate knowledge learned and an opportunity to learn more. Students are allowed to talk about their testing and achievement.

The areas tested are numerous, and the areas emphasized change with each testing (as well as the 45 minute written exam). The black belt test involves a demonstration of punches, kicks, tumbling, self-defense, sparring against one then muliple opponents simultaneously, breaking wood, oral questions and answers and, most importantly, the demonstration of up to 16 different katas or forms.

The test for the above-mentioned people lasted for three and a half hours. The judging panel was made up of eight titled Black Belt Instructors. This group was headed up by Grand Master Clifford C. Crandall.

Keeping alive the importance of each black belt rank, and the complexity of each level, the American Martial Arts Institute maintains the old guidelines of a minimum of two years between testings for each black belt rank, but normally the length of time is greater. This time is seen as an opportunity to grow mentally and emotionally. The individual who is testing for second degree or higher has demonstrated that they can physically learn moves and understand the concepts of what the school, style, and philosophy is by the fact that they earned their first degree. The difficulty as the individual continues the road of being a black belt student of the arts is in the ability to put into practice as a part of their character and philosophy that which they have learned. As they approach the demanding levels of second, third, fourth degree, their ability to stimulate growth in their school and their general promotion of their art which in turn will allow others to practice and enjoy the physical and mental rewards of the path which they have walked.

The individual testing for fourth was required to demonstrate additional weapons forms and up to sixteen additional black belt katas from traditional Korean, Japanese and Chinese styles as well as their American style. This was combined with all other traditional parts of the normal testing, including the extensive written exam.

CONGRATULATIONS to the individuals who tested and to their instructors in the achievement of these very prestigious ranks. All testings are posted at all three locations; Utica, Albany and Rochester as well as the school website.