Organizational Purpose of Shidokan

Strive For The Perfection Of Character

To provide an opportunity to develop/enhance a sense of professionalism in the martial arts community.

Defend The Path Of Truth

To refrain from fostering an egocentric position regarding stylistic differences.

Foster The Spirit Of Effort

To provide guidance, direction and motivation for the Federation's membership.

Honor The Principles Of Etiquette

To be mindful of our organizational purpose within our community in general and society as a whole.

Guard Against Impetuous Courage

To refrain from being overly judgmental and unduly authoritative in the critique of our peers.

Shidokan Certified Teaching Ranks

“Assistant Instructor” - One who assists the teacher on a consistent basis. May be attained below Black Belt.

“Senior Student” - Typically a Black Belt responsible for teaching a class.

“Teacher” - Not only a teaching title, but the most often used term in Japanese to denote teacher.

“One who Knows” - An internationally licensed teacher who takes on major responsibility within a dojo. Typically 4th Dan or higher.

“One who Teaches Teachers” - A teacher who goes beyond his own training and teaching, and helps develop other teachers and other dojos.

“One who Teaches” - Usually 6th or 7th Dan with 20 to 25 years of experience, on the way to becoming a master.

“A Model for the Whole” - Reflects mastery of the physical side of karate, but also the understanding and ability to teach at all levels. This title also recognizes the master's lifelong commitment to living the karate code of conduct in all situations.

NOTE: There are actually more teaching ranks than those shown above. Before some of the above ranks, there is a “Waka” version of that rank. So before one becomes a Sensei, they first become a Waka Sensei, which means “Young Teacher.”