What we are looking for in a student

 

A dojo is much more than just a school where the staff attempt to impart knowledge and physical skills. In contrast, a dojo is more a state of mind than a place. Joining a traditional dojo has the ability to bring out the best in people, if they wish to develop their attitudes or outlook on life.

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We have no requirement for a person’s strength or size.  Adult men and women from every nationality, race and religion are welcome to apply.  However, we do not accept every student who wishes to join.  We are looking for people with a likeminded personality and a commitment to their community.

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We are seeking people who are interested in more than the kicking and punching, but rather the entire martial art.  Our dojo a classical RYU. Although the term RYU can mean style or tradition, a deeper translation for martial artists is family. This means that the art has been passed down, relatively unchanged, from generation to generation.  To be a member of a RYU implies certain responsibilities. Three of the most important of which are courtesy, loyalty and respect.

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We are small, and intend to stay that way.  As such, we are looking for people with dedication and follow-through.  The traditions and etiquette of the dojo also serve to enhance safety, as we train in an art that is inherently dangerous.  Dojo members are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the dojo, because this is not a business, this is a RYU. 

Historically martial artists were responsible for public safety in their community.  Today we have police for that task, but we honor this tradition with community service.  As such members will be asked to assist our community with group activities such as food drives and our Adopt-a-Highway.  We see this service as core to what we do.

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If you would like to our join a close knit family, please apply—and If you have trained before, please empty your cup of tea.

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We are not always accepting new students and your application will stay on file for six months. The exception to this is returning students in good standing or "yondansha"

The OKD-ITK also prohibits its students from disclosing membership information of any member and information regarding the style including pictures and video on social media sites such as Youtube, Facebook, Twitter etc.. We believe that information regarding the martial art style should be passed down using the traditional oral method. You will be required to sign a non-disclosure form upon acceptance to the Dojo in this regard.

If you are interested in joining the Dojo please complete the following form in detail.