DATES: May 30 – June 2, 2024

LOCATION: Salt Lake City, UT

Hi Everyone!

The dates and location are set for the 2024 AUSKF National Iaido Camp.

The event will be held on the University of Utah Campus at the George S Eccles Student Life

Center.

CONTACT INFORMATION & QUESTIONS:

Steven Sasaki

Salt Lake Kendo & Iaido Kyokai

402 968-0615

stevensasaki@comcast.net

Click here for details

Click the link below to apply: 

https://www.auskf.org/forms/promotion-exams/kendo-5-dan-7-dan-and-kendoiaido-shogo-kodansha-exam-application-f 

Application deadline: October 27, 2023
All the applications and payments must be received by the deadline. NO EXCEPTIONS

Location Details: 

• West High School
  20401 Victor St
  Torrance, CA 90503

• Recommended airports: LAX (Los Angeles International Airport),  LGB (Long Beach Airport), SNA (John Wayne Santa Ana Airport)

Date and Time: Sunday, November 12, 2023

• 11:45pm - 12:45pm: Registration

• 1pm - 4pm: Test 5 Dan & above, Shogo

Fee Schedule 

Rank: Test Fee (Menjo Fee)

• 5 Dan: $100 ($150) 

• 6 Dan: $120 ($200) 

• 7 Dan: $150 ($300) 

• Renshi: $120 ($300) 

• Kyoshi: $150 ($500) 

** Application Deadline: October 27, 2023 (All the applications and payments must be received by the deadline) NO EXCEPTIONS.

Announcing the AUSKF National Collegiate Kendo Seminar, to be held on October 6th, 7th and 8th, 2023 at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California!

You can sign up for this event here by September 24th: https://form.jotform.com/232341578093458

This is the FIRST EVER event that AUSKF has sponsored specifically for collegiate kendo in the United States, and is open to both AUSKF and non-AUSKF members. Registration to the seminar will include an associate membership to AUSKF for those non-members, allowing them to take part in future AUSKF events as long as their associate membership remains active. This associate membership will also allow students to earn rank recognized by the International Kendo Federation (FIK).

At the conclusion of this seminar on Sunday morning, we will be hosting a shinsa (promotion exam) to provide the opportunity for those unranked members to test for 6kyu - 3kyu. All portions of this event will be led by the AUSKF Competition Committee with support from local instructors:

• Yuji Onitsuka, Kyoshi 7 Dan

• Douglas Imanishi, Kyoshi 7 Dan

• Brandon Harada, Kyoshi 7 Dan

• Kenneth Song, Renshi 7 Dan

• Jarrod Hatakeyama, 6 Dan

Additional information about this event:

Schedule

Friday, October 6th, 2023

OPEN KEIKO

Stanford Arrillaga Outdoor Education and Recreation Center (AEORC) - Main Room

285 Santa Teresa St, Stanford, CA 94305

Gym Opens at 4pm, Open Keiko 5pm-7pm, Gym Closes at 8pm

Saturday, October 7, 2023

SEMINAR

Stanford AEORC - Main Room

285 Santa Teresa St, Stanford, CA 94305

Gym Opens at 9am, Seminar 9:30am-5pm, Gym Closes at 6pm

Sunday, October 7, 2023

SEMINAR

Stanford AEORC - Main Room

285 Santa Teresa St, Stanford, CA 94305

Gym Opens at 9am, Seminar 9:30am-11am

SHINSA PROMOTION EXAM (6kyu - 3kyu)

11am-12pm, Gym closes at 1pm

Lunch, Fees, etc.

• Seminar Registration Fee (includes AUSKF Associate membership): $30

• Catered lunch on Saturday will be available for purchase for $15

• Shinsa (Promotion Exam) up to 3kyu registration is $40. Please be advised that there is also certificate fee for those who pass (see entry form for details)

• Recommended airports for those from out-of-town: SJC, SFO

You can sign up for this event here by September 24th: https://form.jotform.com/232341578093458

We’re very excited to host this event, and hope that it helps to continue the growth of collegiate kendo in the United States. While we've attempted to contact as many collegiate kendo clubs as possible in the United States, please forward this email on to any clubs or individuals that you think might not have gotten this email.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to competiton@auskf.org.

Below are the results from the High Rank Shinsa held in Las Vegas on August 27, 2023.

Kendo 5 Dan  

Choi Sung Hun AEUSKF - All Eastern United States Kendo Federation

Morgan Ian SEUSKF - Southeastern United States Kendo Federation

Sano Nishiki SCKF - Southern California Kendo Federation

He Gary GNEUSKF - Greater Northeastern United States Kendo Federation

Atagi Rhett PNKF - Pacific Northwest Kendo Federation

Ruiz Chris PNKF - Pacific Northwest Kendo Federation

Vadillo Damien MWKF - Midwest Kendo Federation

Kim Seong MWKF - Midwest Kendo Federation

Magadan Raul SEUSKF - Southeastern United States Kendo Federation

Takikawa Shinga AEUSKF - All Eastern United States Kendo Federation

Sun Scott SEUSKF - Southeastern United States Kendo Federation

Kim Namsoo AEUSKF - All Eastern United States Kendo Federation

Kim Jong PNKF - Pacific Northwest Kendo Federation

Bang Soochul GNEUSKF - Greater Northeastern United States Kendo Federation

Kendo 6 Dan  

Steele Arashi SCKF - Southern California Kendo Federation

Kamimoto Kenichi SCKO - Southern California Kendo Organization

Yoshikawa Hirotaka MWKF - Midwest Kendo Federation

Aoyama Yuichiro SEUSKF - Southeastern United States Kendo Federation

Lee Jaeyeon AEUSKF - All Eastern United States Kendo Federation

Garcia Pedro FIK Affiliated International (write your country in the comments)

Honda Judy SCKF - Southern California Kendo Federation

Mitsuishi Hayato SCKO - Southern California Kendo Organization

Kang Miyun NCKF - Northern California Kendo Federation

Hoang Yatsuki SEUSKF - Southeastern United States Kendo Federation

Kendo 7 Dan  

Lim Sunmi WKF - Western Kendo Federation

Onitsuka Shinji NCKF - Northern California Kendo Federation

Zembayashi Takaya SCKF - Southern California Kendo Federation

Ikeda Ken SCKO - Southern California Kendo Organization

Renshi  

Matsuyama Shigemi GNEUSKF - Greater Northeastern United States Kendo Federation

Choi Steve PNKF - Pacific Northwest Kendo Federation

Mori Hajime SCKO - Southern California Kendo Organization

Sakuma Noriyuki MWKF - Midwest Kendo Federation

Ito Takashi ECUSKF - East Central U.S. Kendo Federation

Matsumoto Katsumi MWKF - Midwest Kendo Federation

Small Gordon MWKF - Midwest Kendo Federation

Cho Yong SWKIF - Southwest Kendo and Iaido Federation

Hatakeyama Dale NCKF - Northern California Kendo Federation

Kyoshi  

Yang Daniel SCKF - Southern California Kendo Federation

Kinno Kohjiro SCKF - Southern California Kendo Federation

CKF Member Federations

American Zone FIK Member Federations

To: President,

                                                   International Kendo Federation/FIK

                                                                                Secretary General

                                                                                     Susumu Nagao

FY2023 FIK American Zone Referee Seminar

The American Zone Referee Seminar, organized by the Canadian Kendo Federation (CKF) will be held as follows.

The participation fee will be charged from the previous seminar (2020) in order to reduce the financial burden on the host country.

1.  Date September 16 (Sat.) and 17 (Sun.), 2023

2.  Host Canadian Kendo Federation（CKF）

                                 Contact: Makiko Ara mara@kendo-canada.com  

3.  Venue: York University, Tait McKenzie Centre (Main Gym)

1        Thompson Rd, North York, ON M3J 1P3, Canada

4.  Schedule

                                 September 16 (Sat.) Referee Seminar 09:00～16:00

                                                                   Goodwill Keiko   16:00～17:00

                                                                   Reception   19:00～21:00

                                 September 17 (Sun.)    Referee Seminar 09:00～12:00

5.  Eligibility for participation

A member of FIK affiliated organization (no age limit).

Kendo 5 dan or higher holder in principle.

The 19WKC referee candidates must participate.

6.  Participation fee

$80 (CAD, Cash only)

A day before the seminar 16:00-19:00 at the hotel lobby On the first day of the seminar 8:00-9:00 at the venue.

CKF will collect.

7.  Online registration for the seminar https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe2Apt3D9XAuf5DxtUc24WX7VjA81 HEC-BtrTnacmDf80mIZQ/viewform?pli=1

Deadline: 6:00 pm (EST) on September 1, 2023

FIK American Zone Referee Seminar Accommodation, Reception

Please refer to the following information from the CKF on the FIK American Zone Referee Seminar, accommodations, receptions, and other local information.

1        Hotel: Springhill Suites by Marriott Toronto Vaughan

612 Applewood Crescent, Vaughan, Ontario, Canada L4K 4B4.

+1 (888) 289-9400

$189 CAD per night plus taxes. Breakfast included. Hotel reservations (50 rooms), participant can book directly through link the group rate https://www.marriott.com/events/start.mi?id=1687886088851&key=GRP.  

Reservation Code：FIK seminar

Last Day to Book under group rate: Tuesday, August 15, 2023

2        Transportation

30 minutes by car/taxi at from Toronto Pearson International Airport YYZ

3        Lunch ($18 CAD, cash only)

Bento lunch on Saturday, Sep. 16 can be arranged for the participants for a fee.

4        Reception

Time: Saturday, September 16 19:00-21:00

Venue: Springhill Suites by Marriott Toronto Vaughan 

Fee: $80 CAD, cash only 

Shuttle bus service to and from the venue will be provided (free of charge) during the seminar.

Users must register via the online form.

5 DAN

Faghani Alistair 5 Dan Kendo GNEUSKF

Suzuki-Alcorn Nigel 5 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

Gallinger Nathan 5 Dan Kendo SCKF

Kitanohara Kei 5 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

Imanishi Taryn 5 Dan Kendo PNKF

Moore Joshua 5 Dan Kendo GNEUSKF

Huynh David 5 Dan Kendo PNKF

Bell Craig 5 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

Brown Duncan 5 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

Kim David 5 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

Park Young-Ki 5 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

6 DAN

Hirashita Satoshi 6 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

Suzaka Garrett 6 Dan Kendo PNKF

Stronach Travis 6 Dan Kendo MWKF

Kawabata Marvin 6 Dan Kendo GNEUSKF

Kawamura Powell Akiyo 6 Dan Kendo NCKF

Abe Goro 6 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

Konno Daisei 6 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

Jao Michael 6 Dan Kendo NCKF

Pak Jeong 6 Dan Kendo AEUSKF

Manning Michael 6 Dan Kendo GNEUSKF

7 DAN

Brown Jason 7 Dan Kendo SCKF

Tominaga Ryoma 7 Dan Kendo GNEUSKF

Song Kenneth 7 Dan Kendo WKF

RENSHI

Hayashi Tomohiko Kendo Renshi MWKF

Han Sungho Kendo Renshi AEUSKF

Chong Kwangsoo Kendo Renshi AEUSKF

Park Chang Kendo Renshi NCKF

Hiromura David Kendo Renshi AEUSKF

KYOSHI

Joshua Caroll Kendo Kyoshi AEUSKF

Use of mask / shield update April 1, 2023 

As of April 1, 2023, AUSKF does NOT mandate use of mask or shield at everyday practice, regional or national events.  Usage of mask and/or shield is optional, and it is up to each individual.  

The Covid-19 infection and death rate has declined, probably due to many factors including vaccinations.  Please see the latest data from CDC.  

https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#trends_weeklycases_select_00

https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#trends_weeklydeaths_select_00

Please continue to monitor local situation and policy/guidelines of the state, county, and the venue of your kendo activity, and be prepared to modify your practice.   

If the individual is not vaccinated, and/or has medical condition (Youth members, senior members 70 years and older, immune-compromised) that makes him/her more susceptible to serious illness from infectious disease, we strongly recommend continued use of appropriate precautionary measures, such as mask and/or shield.   

Thank you,

Michio Kajitani

EVP AUSKF

Date: Saturday, April 15, 2023 - Tournament

Tournament Venue: Edison High School

21400 Magnolia Street
Huntington Beach, CA 92646

Google Maps

Visit www.auskf-jrnationals.com for more information.

Click the link below to apply: 

https://www.auskf.org/forms/promotion-exams/kendo-5-dan-7-dan-and-kendoiaido-shogo-kodansha-exam-application-f 

Location Details: 

• Leonia High School,
  100 Christie Heights St
  Leonia, NJ 07605

• Recommended airports: Newark (EWR)

Date and Time: Sunday, April 2nd, 2023

• 11:45pm - 12:45pm: Registration

• 1pm - 4pm: Test 5 Dan & above, Shogo

Fee Schedule 

Rank: Test Fee (Menjo Fee)

• 5 Dan: $100 ($150) 

• 6 Dan: $120 ($200) 

• 7 Dan: $150 ($300) 

• Renshi: $120 ($300) 

• Kyoshi: $150 ($500) 

** Application Deadline: Saturday, March 18, 2023 (All the applications and payments must be received by the deadline) 

NO EXCEPTIONS.

We are accepting all applications online. (Please do not mail the documents to my physical address.) Please use the website below to access the application form:

https://www.auskf.org/forms/promotion-exams/kendo-5-dan-7-dan-and-kendoiaido-shogo-kodansha-exam-application-f

All payments to be made online. If you have any problem making online payment, please contact us by email: promotion@auskf.org

**Due to Covid-19 pandemic, AUSKF may cancel the event.

The application fees are non-refundable nor transferable unless the event itself was canceled by AUSKF. AUSKF will not be responsible for travel expenses due to cancellation by AUSKF.

Pay only for the testing fee on the online application. Those who passed the test must pay the menjo fee, within 2 weeks using PayPal.com: payment@auskf.org

Due to Covid19 pandemic, the applicants must fulfill one of the following requirements. You will be asked to provide the proof of one of those listed below. You will have to have no Covid-19 symptom, such as fever, cough, headache, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) AND

1.    Fully vaccinated and 2 weeks have passed after the last dose.

2.    Had negative PCR test result within 72 hours prior to the date of the examination.

3.    Had positive PCR test but at least 11 days have passed since full recovery without symptom,  but not more than 180 days.

In order to prevent Covid-19 spread and to mitigate the risk of infection, following precautions are to be taken.

1. Bring your PCR result or Vaccination Card. (It will be checked at the entrance).

2. Wear a mask at all times in the gym.

3.    Masks must be worn during the practice and shinsa.

4.    Place Shield inside the MEN.  (Any design will do).

5.    No loud Kiai.

6.    No Tsubazeri.

7.    Keep social distance (6 feet apart) as much as possible.

8.    Minimize the conversation indoor, and avoid physical contact with others.

9.    Use sanitizer and wash hands frequently.

Dear all presidents and members.

We are still waiting for the "official" invitation from FIK.  They will send it to us soon with a registration form 

but in a meantime, I would like to share the seminar information so that you can make a travel arrangement ahead of time.

Again this is NOT the official invitation and there might be a slight changes, like party/seminar start time, but not a big schedule change.

1. Date: February 25th & 26th, 2023 (Saturday and Sunday)

2. Host Organization: All United State Kendo Federation (AUSKF)

   Contact Person: Kenneth Song Email: Kenneth.song@auskf.org

                                Hayato Okawa Email: hayato.okawa@auskf.org

3. Place (Venue): Inglewood high school  

    231 S Grevillea Avenue, Inglewood, California 90301

    The hotel is located 2.8 miles from the venue.

    Transportation will be provided 25th &26th Seminar

4. Accommodation: Sonesta Los Angeles Airport LAX. $124 + tax/per night

    5985 West Century Blvd, Los Angeles, California, USA.  1(310)-642-7500

   Reservation Code: “FIK seminar “ if you need the continental breakfast, $30+tax”

  The shuttle runs 24/7, every 20 to 30 minutes at LAX departure level.

5. Schedule outline:    February 24th Fri Registration fee payment at the hotel Lobby 16:00-19:00

                                         February 25th Sat   Registration fee payment at the gym entrance 8:00-9:00   

                                                                          Referee seminar 9:00- 16:00 (7:50 am bus run back & forth)

                                                                          Goodwill Keiko 16:00-16:45

                                                                          Welcome Party 19:00 -21:00 (Transportation provided by SCKO and there are charges

                                                                          of $10/person.  The bus leaves hotel at !8:30PM)

                                      February 26th Sun  Referee seminar 9:00 -12:00 (1st shuttle bus leave hotel at 7:50 am)

                                                                          Goodwill Keiko 13:00-14:00

6. Participants expected:

·       Participants should be members of the FIK affiliated organizations principle.

·       Participants should be Kendo 5 Dan or higher Dan holders and should practice Kendo regularly.

·       No age limit to participate.

·       It is desirable that 5 or more participants from each FIK affiliated organization attend.

·       Candidates for the referee of 18th WKC are strongly encouraged to participate.

·       Please do not absent from this seminar except for an unavoidable reason.

No one can participate in the seminar unless registered officially in advance

·       Please wear Kendo-gi, Hakama and Tare during the seminar

7. Expense:

·       Seminar fee $60.00 USD (Cash) per person will be collected at the HQ hotel.

·       The participants shall bear own expense for traveling, transportation, accommodation, and meals

8. Bento: A lunch box provided to all participants on Saturday, February 25th   for $17 USD.

9. Welcome Banquet: Saturday February 25th 19:00-21:00 at Sea Empress Restaurant.

Transportation will be provided ($10 p/p) hotel to restaurant

https://www.seaempressrestaurant.com/

 The welcome banquet fee is $60.00 USD (Tax & tips included) Cash bar (pay on the spot)

10. Payment: AUSKF collect the payment in cash for the seminar, welcome banquet, and the Bento at the HQ hotel reception desk on February 24th (16:00-19:00) and at the gym on February 25th 8:00-9:00

11. Seminar online registration:   Registration form will be sent by FIK soon 

12. Registration due date: February 7th 6:00 pm (PST)

Others:

1) Three instructors from the international kendo federation /FIK will conduct the seminar.

2) Translator (between Japanese and English) will be available during the seminar.

3) FIK plans to send out high level competitors for simulated matches at the seminar from Japan and Korea.  

 FIK Referee seminar coordinator in USA

 Hayato Okawa 

Kenneth Song

Happy New Year!

Over the last three years, the whole world has been affected by Covid-19 pandemic, and our kendo activity was no exception.  However, we seem to be regaining near normal life style over the last year. 

This new year of 2023 is likely to be an exciting and busy year for AUSKF.  We plan to resume 8 dan tour in mid-February, followed by FIK shinpan seminar.  Many regional events are planned, then we will be hosting the AUSKF National Championship this summer.  We will also have Kendo and Iaido Summer camp in August. 

Since November of 2021, we resumed AUSKF board meeting and high rank shinsa.  Iaido and Jodo also hosted national events last year.  We hope to continue this upward trend to regain our normal life style and daily activities including Kendo, Iaido, and Jodo.

The situation has been steadily improving, with a few occasional bumps due to emergences of new variants of Covid virus, escaping our immune system gained by vaccination and previous infections.  There is no way to predict our future, but we continue to take precaution and enjoy kendo and friendship. 

We would like to thank you all for your patience and corporation to keep us safe.  We had a very successful kendo summer camp last August with over 300 participants without any major ill effect.  Our board members have been working hard to make it happen and we will continue to serve you even better.  

We all ask you to take proper precautions, stay safe, and continue to enjoy learning Kendo, Iaido, and Jodo.   Looking forward to seeing you all at any of these national and regional events soon!

Sincerely,

AUSKF

August 10 - 13, 2023.

The AUSKF Iaido camp(Seminar,Taikai and Shinsa) will be held at:

Louetta Automotive Sports Complex

17120 House Hahl Road

17120 House Hahl Road Cypress, Texas, 77433

 Two Iaido instructor's names will be decided after the two sensei are dispatched from the All Japan Kendo Federation.

The Hotel for the Sensei:

Marriott Courtyard

23930 Northwest Freeway,

Cypress, Texas 77429

281-758-8995

Course Details:  Dates Thursday, August 10 - Friday, August 11, 2023

This course is designed for kyu level to 7-dan.

U.S. Iaido Championships:  Saturday, August 12

Tournament format will be held for each rank level up to 6dan.

The Canadian members will have a demonstration tournament.

Examination:  Sunday morning, August 13.

Examinations will be held from 1 kyu to 6 dan.

The 4-dan, 5-dan and 6-dan examinations will be conducted jointly with the Canadian Kendo Federation.

Details Click here 

Application Form (online): https://www.auskf.org/forms/promotion-exams/kendo-5-dan-7-dan-and-kendoiaido-shogo-kodansha-exam-application-f 

Location Details: 

• Torrance High School,
  2200 W Carson St
  Torrance, CA 90501

• Nearest airports: LAX (Los Angeles Int'l), LGB (Long Beach), SNA (Santa Ana "John Wayne")

Date and Time: Sunday, November 13th, 2022

• 11:45pm - 12:45pm: Registration

• 1pm - 4pm: Test 5 Dan & above, Shogo

Fee Schedule 

Rank: Test Fee (Menjo Fee)

• 5 Dan: $100 ($150) 

• 6 Dan: $120 ($200) 

• 7 Dan: $150 ($300) 

• Renshi: $120 ($300) 

• Kyoshi: $150 ($500) 

** Application Deadline: Friday, October 28, 2022 (All the applications and payments must be received

by the deadline) NO EXCEPTIONS.

We are accepting all applications online. (Please do not mail the documents to my physical address.) Please use the website below to access the application form:

https://www.auskf.org/department/education/2022-auskf-summer-seminar-promotion-exam

All payments to be made online. If you have any problem making online payment, please contact us by email: promotion@auskf.org

**Due to Covid-19 pandemic, AUSKF may cancel the event.

The application fees are non-refundable nor transferable unless the event itself was canceled by AUSKF. AUSKF will not be responsible for travel expenses due to cancellation by AUSKF.

Pay only for the testing fee on the online application. Those who passed the test must pay the menjo fee, within 2 weeks using PayPal.com: payment@auskf.org

Due to Covid19 pandemic, the applicants must fulfill one of the following requirements. You will be asked to provide the proof of one of those listed below. You will have to have no Covid-19 symptom, such as fever, cough, headache, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) AND

1.    Fully vaccinated and 2 weeks have passed after the last dose.

2.    Had negative PCR test result within 72 hours prior to the date of the examination.

3.    Had positive PCR test but at least 11 days have passed since full recovery without symptom,  but not more than 180 days.

In order to prevent Covid-19 spread and to mitigate the risk of infection, following precautions are to be taken.

1. Bring your PCR result or Vaccination Card. (It will be checked at the entrance).

2. Wear a mask at all times in the gym.

3.    Masks must be worn during the practice and shinsa.

4.    Place Shield inside the MEN.  (Any design will do).

5.    No loud Kiai.

6.    No Tsubazeri.

7.    Keep social distance (6 feet apart) as much as possible.

8.    Minimize the conversation indoor, and avoid physical contact with others.

9.    Use sanitizer and wash hands frequently.

For more details, click here. 

For details and to register, please click here.

I was elected to be the 2022-2024 AUSKF president at the November 12, 2021, AUSKF BOD Meeting. I will do my best to honor this opportunity. Under the current COVID conditions, we will seek better situations for Kendo, Iaido, and Jodo activities. I believe there are ways we will make the most of this time, to lead our activities in a good direction. Let’s go through this hard time together.   (Shinobu Maeda) 

Happy New Year! I am honored to serve another term for AUSKF, this time as the executive vice president.  It has been very difficult two years since the Covid-19 pandemic started, but I am glad to see that most dojos resumed regular practice by the end of last year.  The emergence of Omicron variant is raising another concern worldwide.  It seems to be very contagious but probably less lethal, compared with other variants, such as Delta.  We may see more variants emerge, and we need to be alert on new information, take usual precautions, appropriate countermeasures, and get vaccinated if you can.  Our goal is to provide safe and enjoyable environment to practice kendo for all our members.  All the AUSKF board members are volunteers, donating our time and effort for the members.  We do what we can, and please be willing to contribute for our federation as well.  Hope to see you at national as well as regional events this year.  Let us stand together and build bright future for AUSKF. (Michio Kajitani)

Happy Holidays to everyone.

2022 will be a great year for Kendo; I will do my part to accomplish this goal.  As your newly elected VP of Promotion, my committee members, Seiji Mamiya, Mike Jao, and Ken Tamura and I will do our best to accommodate everyone’s needs. Please stay healthy and continue kendo safely. Hope to see everyone soon. (Yuji Onitsuka)

My name is Hayato Okawa and I have been elected to be in charge of education (VP) for AUSKF. As the pandemic increases in magnitude and it is still yet uncertain how many seminars and events we can host, I will to the best of my ability fulfill my duty as the head of education and help to develop kendo in the United States.  I’m looking forward to meeting everyone in person and I’m hoping we can meet swords in Keiko. Thank you! (Hayato Okawa)

Dear AUSKF Regional Presidents, Senseis and Kenshi: 

I would like to start by wishing everyone a Happy New Year.  I was elected the new AUSKF Vice President of Competition at the AUSKF Board meeting in November.  I am thankful to also have the support of my committee members Doug Imanishi Sensei, Kenny Song Sensei and Jarrod Hatakeyama Sensei.  I am taking over this role from Yuji Onitsuka Sensei and have big shoes to fill.  Onitsuka Sensei did a fantastic job in holding the AUSKF Federation-Zone Referee Seminars, Junior National Championships and AUSKF Championships.  There remain many uncertainties with COVID, but our committee will do our very best to fulfill our duties and responsibilities.  We humbly ask for your patience and understanding as we traverse these times.  

The first order of busy for the New Year will be the Junior National Championships.  It is still uncertain whether or not we can proceed with the tournament this year, but we will do everything we can to make it happen.  We are tentatively looking at June or July to hold this tournament.  We also plan on conducting a few of the Federation-Zone Referee Seminars this year, but that schedule will be announced at a later time.  

Lastly, please let me know if you (or your federation) have any thoughts or ideas for improvement.  I will discuss them with my committee and will take them into consideration in our planning for the next few years.  (Brandon Harada) 

I am honored to serve as Treasurer of the AUSKF Board for the second term.  I will also continue to be in charge of the AUSKF memberships and work with our IT and membership admin team members.  Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns regarding your AUSKF membership.  I will do my best to serve all of the AUSKF members and improve our membership renewal process. I will be looking forward to working with you. 

Wishing you a safe and happy 2022 year!   (Keiko Umemura) 

Continuing from last year, I will be working for the AUSKF. My responsibility for 2022-2024 will be auditing and Insurance

/Risk management committee. The committee will work hard with Douglas Imanishi sensei and Brandon Harada sensei, so please feel free to contact us at any time. We wish you a healthy and peaceful year.  (Seiji Mamiya)                                                                                                                                                      

My name is Norman Otani, and I have been elected to serve as the 2022-2024 Secretary-Historian for the 2022-2024 AUSKF board of directors.  I am looking forward to an exciting and challenging three (3) years ahead, as the 2022-2024 AUSKF board of directors must work hard to restart all of the past efforts to once again have competition, education and promotion events for kendo, iaido and jodo.   (Norman Otani)

The new COVID variants affecting our daily lives and restricting sport activities, it is for sure a very challenging time to be an officer. But I felt that there is no better time to give something back to AUSKF. I will be leading the IT committee for the next three years. We have a very capable team. I am looking forward to simplifying the AUSKF administration processes and improving the front-end experience for the AUSKF members and the future to-be members. If you have any questions of suggestions, please feel free to contact me at taro.ariga@auskf.org.  Looking forward to a great 2022!  (Taro Ariga)

2021 has been another challenging year, but I am excited to finally get back to practice and am looking forward to seeing everyone at AUSKF events this year. Please stay safe and healthy!  (Danny Yang)

It is my distinct honor to serve as an AUSKF director.  I am new to this role but will do my best to support US kendo and our members.   I also look forward to seeing many of you as AUSKF events resume.  Please accept my sincere hope that each of you stays healthy and safe and that you can continue training. (Doug Imanishi)

It is my pleasure and honor to serve the AUSKF as a Board member as well as the Education Committee member. With the guidance from Okawa sensei, I will try to be creative, bring new ideas, and make educational events seamless and successful. Happy New Year and I hope 2022 is filled with hope for better, safe, and healthy days for all kendokas!! (Henry Lee)

Happy New Year to all - I hope everyone is having a safe and healthy 2022. I am very excited to be elected to the AUSKF Board of Directors (BoD) for the 2022-2024 term. As a first-time member of the AUSKF BoD, my goal is to both learn from and humbly build upon the successes of all of the current and previous leaders of AUSKF. For the next few years, I will be joining Brandon Harada Sensei as a member of the Competition Committee and Taro Ariga Sensei as a member of the IT Committee. I’m looking forward to supporting both them and the rest of the BoD as we plan and execute on our various AUSKF programs and events. Finally, I’d like to ask for your patience as I settle into this new role during the unique set of circumstances presented by the current COVID situation. Thank you for your vote of confidence as well as your support for the next few years. (Jarrod Hatakeyama)

My name is Kenneth Song, and I have been elected to serve for the 2022-2024 AUSKF board of directors. I am looking forward to an exciting and challenging three (3) years ahead, as the 2022-2024 AUSKF board of Competition Committee member. I will do my best to support AUSKF and members. Happy New Year!! I wish you a healthy and peaceful year. (Kenneth Song)                                                              

Happy New Year!   Wishing everyone has a healthy, safe, and strong 2022! (Mike Jao)                                                                                                                                      

I am very honored to be able to serve as a board member of the AUSKF.  As part of the education committee, we will organize seminars to help develop and promote kendo in the United States.  I look forward to meeting and doing keiko with you at upcoming AUSKF events. (Shuntaro Shinada)

My name is Ken Tamura and it is an honor to serve as AUSKF BOD for the first time. I have been assigned as a member of the AUSKF Promotion Committee and SEUSKF VP for Promotion. I am hoping to contribute to provide safe and smooth experiences for promotion exams and related seminars.  (Ken Tamura)

AUSKF higher Dan Iaido shinsa

Date: October 7 - 9, 2022 

Location: Rain City Fencing Center in Bellevue, WA 

It will be in conjunction with the 2022 PNKF Iaido Seminar, Taikai, and Shinsa 

2022 Kendo Summer Camp & Promotino Exam Information

(1) Summer Camp

August 26-28th, 2022  Las Vegas, Nevada

2022 AUSKF Summer Camp

Dear AUSKF Federation Presidents and Supporters:

The registration is officially open for the 2022 AUSKF Summer Camp to be held in Las Vegas, Nevada on Friday, August 26th to Sunday, August 28th.  We will have an exciting program scheduled three 8 Dan senseis from Japan.  Details regarding this event can be found below. We expect a great turnout and look forward to having many US kenshi participate, so please sign up now!!

Click here to register: https://www.auskf.org/department/education/2022-auskf-summer-seminar-promotion-exam

Regards,

AUSKF Education

DATE:

Friday, August 26th

2:30-3PM: Registration

3-6:30PM: Seminar

Saturday, August 27th

8:30-9:00AM: Registration

9:00AM-4:00PM: Seminar

6:30: Welcome Dinner

Sunday, August 28th

8:30-9:00AM: Registration

9:00-11:45 PM: Seminar

12:30-1 PM: Promotion Exam Registration

1-4PM: Promotion Exam

LOCATION:

Bill & Lillie Heinrich YMCA

4141 Meadows Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89107

Free Parking

INSTRUCTORS:

Isato Matsuda Hanshi 8 Dan

Toshiya Ishida Hanshi 8 Dan

Tanetoshi Terachi Kyoshi 8 Dan

ELIGIBILITY:

All AUSKF Members 18 years of age or older at the time of the event.

18 and under may also participate, provided they are accompanied at all times by a parent or guardian AND prior notice is provided to the AUSKF Education Committee.

Headquarter : Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

129 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

We have NO  hotel recommendation this time

You will stay at your favorite hotel.

Welcome Dinner: TBD

You must bring a signed Liability Release and the AUSKF COVID-19 Questionnaire on the day of the seminar. 

Liability Release
AUSKF COVID-19 QUESTIONNAIRE

Instructors Profile

Isato Matsuda Hanshi 8 Dan

• Graduated from Kokushikan University

• Member of Board of education in Nara prefecture

• All Japan kendo championship 8 times participated.

• All Japan 8 Dan championships 3rd place x 2times.

• World kendo championship participated.

• Tozai taiko (East west) kendo match 10 times participated.

• All Japan teachers kendo tournament 2nd place

• National sports festival 2nd place and 3rd place

Toshiya Ishida  Hanshi 8 Dan

• Graduated from Osaka Sports Science  University.

• Osaka police department Kendo Instructor.

• National police agency  police academy professor.

• Team Japan manager.

• All Japan kendo championship 1st place x2 times.

• All Japan 8 Dan championships 1st place. 

• All Japan 7 Dan championships 1st place x 2times.

• National sports festival 1st place.

• World kendo championships team 1st place x 4times

• All Japan police kendo championship 1st place in  individual division, 1st place x3 times team division.

• Nakakura- Ki tournament 1st placex 2 times.

• Tozai taiko(East west) kendo match participated.

• Japan prefecture kendo tournament 1st place.

• Inter collage kendo championship 1st place in  individual division & team division.

• Inter high school kendo championship 1st place in team division.

Tanetoshi Terachi Kyoshi 8 Dan

• Graduated from Hosei University.

• Tokyo  metropolitan police department (KEISHI-CHO) kendo top master.

• All Japan kendo championship 8 times participated.

• All Japan 8 Dan championships 4 times participated

• World kendo championships team division 1st place x3 times.

• National sports festival 1st place x 2times.

• Tozai taiko (East west) kendo match participated.

• All Japan police kendo championship 1st place in  individual division x2 , 1st place x8 times in team division.

• Japan prefecture kendo tournament 1st place.

For more details and signup form, click here 

https://www.auskf.org/department/education/2022-auskf-summer-seminar-promotion-exam

(2) Promotion Exam

Dear Federation Presidents 

I hope this email finds you well. 

I am pleased to announce that there will be an AUSKF high rank shinsa this summer. Along with the high rank shinsa there will be an opportunity for members to test for 1 Kyu thru 4 Dan as well.  The shinsa will be in Las Vegas on Sunday August 28. The shinsa will follow directly after the AUSKF summer camp.  All shinsa participants will be required to participate in the summer camp. 

Attached please find:

• Promotion packet

• Federation president approval form

• 1 kyu - 4 dan essay questions

• 5 dan - 7 dan essay questions

These forms will need to be uploaded to the online form along with payment via paypal on the link below:

https://www.auskf.org/department/education/2022-auskf-summer-seminar-promotion-exam 

Best regards

AUSKF Promotion Committee

AUSKF Kendo Promotion Examination

August 28, 2022

Location: Bill and Lillie Heinrich  YMCA  4141 Meadows Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89107

Nearest Airport: LAS (Harry Reid International Airport)

 Date:   Sunday, August 28, 2022

11:45 pm - 12:45pm   Registration

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm  Test 1 Kyu through 7 Dan and Shogo

** All contestants need to be 18 years old and above.

Fees:

• Non-Refundable,

• Non-transferable

• Menjo Fee: Pay within 14 days from exam date via Paypal: payment@auskf.org

Fees: Test Fee (Menjo Fee)

• 1 Kyu $40 ($30) 

• 1 Dan $50 ($50) 

• 2 Dan $60 ($60) 

• 3 Dan $70 ($80) 

• 4 Dan $80 ($100)

• 5 Dan $100 ($150) 

• 6 Dan $120 ($200) 

• 7 Dan $150 ($300) 

• Renshi $120 ($300) 

• Kyoshi $150 ($500) 

** Application Deadline: Friday, August 12, 2022 (All the applications and payments must be received

by the deadline) NO EXCEPTIONS.

We are accepting all applications online. (Please do not mail the documents to my physical address.) Please use the website below to access the application form:

https://www.auskf.org/department/education/2022-auskf-summer-seminar-promotion-exam

All payments to be made online. If you have any problem making online payment, please contact us by email: promotion@auskf.org

**Due to Covid-19 pandemic, AUSKF may cancel the event.

The application fees are non-refundable nor transferable unless the event itself was canceled by AUSKF. AUSKF will not be responsible for travel expenses due to cancellation by AUSKF.

Pay only for the testing fee on the online application. Those who passed the test must pay the menjo fee, within 2 weeks using PayPal.com: payment@auskf.org

Due to Covid19 pandemic, the applicants must fulfill one of the following requirements. You will be asked to provide the proof of one of those listed below. You will have to have no Covid-19 symptom, such as fever, cough, headache, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) AND

1.    Fully vaccinated and 2 weeks have passed after the last dose.

2.    Had negative PCR test result within 72 hours prior to the date of the examination.

3.    Had positive PCR test but at least 11 days have passed since full recovery without symptom,  but not more than 180 days.

In order to prevent Covid-19 spread and to mitigate the risk of infection, following precautions are to be taken.

1. Bring your PCR result or Vaccination Card. (It will be checked at the entrance).

2. Wear a mask at all times in the gym.

3.    Masks must be worn during the practice and shinsa.

4.    Place Shield inside the MEN.  (Any design will do).

5.    No loud Kiai.

6.    No Tsubazeri.

7.    Keep social distance (6 feet apart) as much as possible.

8.    Minimize the conversation indoor, and avoid physical contact with others.

9.    Use sanitizer and wash hands frequently.

If you have any question, please contact us by Email: promotion@auskf.org 

Sincerely,

AUSKF

Promotion Committee

2023 Kendo Summer Camp & Promotion Exam Information

(1) Summer Camp

Sign up here

August 25-27th, 2023 Las Vegas, Nevada

2023 AUSKF Summer Camp

Location:

Bill & Lillie Heinrich YMCA

4141 Meadows Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89107

Free Parking

Schedule:

Friday, August 25th

3:30-5:00 PM: Registration

3:30-6:00 PM Free Keiko ( You can have KEIKO with seminar participants )

Saturday, August 26th

8:30-9:00 AM: Registration

9:00-4:00 PM: Seminar

4:15- 5:00 PM Keiko

Sunday, August 27th

8:30-9:00 AM: Registration

9:00-11:30 PM: Seminar

Instructors

Yosuke Yamanaka (Hanshi 8 Dan) 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5PJzjcI3vI

Graduated from Tsukuba university

1st place x2  in All Japan Teachers Kendo Tournament 

11times participated All Japan Championship

3rd place in All Japan Kendo Championship

13 times participated in All Japan East -West Kendo Tournament

Naoki Eiga (Kyoshi 8 Dan)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqOa-eSU7XQ

Graduated from Tokai University

11th WKC individual champion in 2000

All Japan champion in 2000

WKC team champion in 2003

1 st place in 8 Dan tournament in 2019

(2) Promotion Exam

AUSKF Kendo Promotion Examination

August 27, 2023 (12:30pm-4pm immediately following the AUSKF Summer Camp)

Sign up here

Location:

Bill & Lillie Heinrich YMCA

4141 Meadows Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89107

Free Parking

** All contestants need to be 18 years old and above.

Fees:

• Non-Refundable,

• Non-transferable

• Menjo Fee: Pay within 14 days from exam date via Paypal: payment@auskf.org

Fees: Test Fee (Menjo Fee)

• 5 Dan $100 ($150) 

• 6 Dan $120 ($200) 

• 7 Dan $150 ($300) 

• Renshi $120 ($300) 

• Kyoshi $150 ($500) 

** Application Deadline: Friday, August 11, 2023 (All the applications and payments must be received by the deadline) NO EXCEPTIONS.

We are accepting all applications online. (Please do not mail the documents to my physical address.) 

Please use the website below to access the application form:

[LINK TO BE ADDED]

All payments to be made online. If you have any problem making online payment, please contact us by email: promotion@auskf.org

**Due to Covid-19 pandemic, AUSKF may cancel the event.

The application fees are non-refundable nor transferable unless the event itself was canceled by AUSKF. AUSKF will not be responsible for travel expenses due to cancellation by AUSKF.

Pay only for the testing fee on the online application. Those who passed the test must pay the menjo fee, within 2 weeks using PayPal.com: payment@auskf.org