American Martial Arts Institute

Results for the junior rank black belt testing held on
September 29th at the main Utica location.

Kyle Tomisman-----1st Dan, Junior Rank Black Belt (Age 13)
Mike Dubiel-----1st Dan, Junior Rank Black Belt (Age 12)
Christian Kozlowski-----1st Dan, Junior Rank Black Belt (Age 12)
Nick Baran-----1st Dan, Junior Rank Black Belt (Age 12)

Left to Right: Kyle Tomisman (13), Mike Dubiel (12), Christian Kozlowski (12), and Nick Baran (12)

In the American Martial Arts Institute, individuals who are testing for the rank of first dan black belt who are under the age of 16 test for junior rank black belt status. This test is a time of demonstrating knowledge and an opportunity to learn more. The rank of first degree black belt, whether in Japan, Korea, China, or the United States, is recognized as one of the most prestigious ranks in the martial arts. There are ten levels of black belt in many styles, including American Eagle Style, but first dan 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 and one half to seven years.

The junior rank black belt testing is challenging, but differs from the adult status 1st dan testing. With the understanding that students under the age of 16 are still developing, they do not demonstrate an extention tool, spar more than two individuals simultaneous, or break boards. The American Martial Arts Institute sees this testing as a time of demonstrating knowledge learned and the opportunity to learn more. Numerous areas are tested, and the areas emphasized and written examination change with each testing.

The testing lasted four hours and required the candidates to demonstrate punches, kicks, basic forms, self-defense against empty-handed attackers, knives, and guns, takedowns, bagwork, tumbling, ippon kumites, defensive hanza technqiues, sparring against one and two opponents simultaneously, oral questions and answers and, most importantly, the demonstration of up to 14 different katas or forms. Each candidate completed an intensive written examination that lasted 45 minutes. The judging panel was made up of six titled Black Belt instructors. This group was headed up by Grandmaster Clifford C. Crandall.

Congratulations to these individuals and their instructors.


	*Press Releases*

	Junior Rank Black Belt Testing September 29th, 2006

		Results for the junior rank black belt testing held on September 29th at the main Utica location. After years of preparation and dedication, four individuals tested and earned their new rank in the American Eagle Style of martial arts. Junior Rank Black Belt Kyle Tomisman-----1st Dan, Junior Rank Black Belt (Age 13) Mike Dubiel-----1st Dan, Junior Rank Black Belt (Age 12) Christian Kozlowski-----1st Dan, Junior Rank Black Belt (Age 12) Nick Baran-----1st Dan, Junior Rank Black Belt (Age 12) Left to Right: Kyle Tomisman (13), Mike Dubiel (12), Christian Kozlowski (12), and Nick Baran (12) In the American Martial Arts Institute, individuals who are testing for the rank of first dan black belt who are under the age of 16 test for junior rank black belt status. This test is a time of demonstrating knowledge and an opportunity to learn more. The rank of first degree black belt, whether in Japan, Korea, China, or the United States, is recognized as one of the most prestigious ranks in the martial arts. There are ten levels of black belt in many styles, including American Eagle Style, but first dan 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 and one half to seven years. The junior rank black belt testing is challenging, but differs from the adult status 1st dan testing. With the understanding that students under the age of 16 are still developing, they do not demonstrate an extention tool, spar more than two individuals simultaneous, or break boards. The American Martial Arts Institute sees this testing as a time of demonstrating knowledge learned and the opportunity to learn more. Numerous areas are tested, and the areas emphasized and written examination change with each testing. The testing lasted four hours and required the candidates to demonstrate punches, kicks, basic forms, self-defense against empty-handed attackers, knives, and guns, takedowns, bagwork, tumbling, ippon kumites, defensive hanza technqiues, sparring against one and two opponents simultaneously, oral questions and answers and, most importantly, the demonstration of up to 14 different katas or forms. Each candidate completed an intensive written examination that lasted 45 minutes. The judging panel was made up of six titled Black Belt instructors. This group was headed up by Grandmaster Clifford C. Crandall. Congratulations to these individuals and their instructors. These individuals will receive their certificates at the next Ceremonial Black Belt Breakfast.

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