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I
the nternational
Martial Arts Council
of America
IMAC Quarterly E- Magazine
Issue 2 - January, 2007
In This Issue
Understanding the levels
of competence
A philosophical study of
Shodo -O- Seisu:
“Controlling the first move”
Info on the 2007 National
Training Camp and Hall
of Fame event!
IMAC
By Martial Artists - For Martial Artists
Upcoming Events
Where our desire to train rises above all organizations and boundaries
imacusa.com
International Martial Arts Council of America
Message from the President
IMAC Quarterly
E- Magazine
Professor Marty Cale
President of IMAC
The 2007 United States Martial Arts Hall Of Fame has been set.
Yes, Las Vegas, NV will be the host city to our 2007 Hall of Fame
and National Training Camp. The dates will be August 2nd through the
4th, and at the newly renovated and downtown historical Golden Nugget
Hotel. This year’s event promises to be the biggest and most exciting event to date. We
are very excited about many things, including a larger staff to help make things run even
smoother than they have in the past. We now have redesigned certificates for
Promotions, Rank Advancement, Memberships, School Charter Memberships, etc.
We are currently putting together one of the best lineups of Instructors for the
Training Camp in 8 years. Our Defensive Tactics Course is getting national recognition
for the outstanding job that Fred Mastison has done over the past few years. We will
have a new line of clothing and apparel with both the IMAC logo and The Hall Of Fame
logo. Our Grandmasters Council is headed by Dr. Dan Netherland and we are looking to
have one of the biggest and best Test and Promotions event ever. Master Chad
Netherland along with Guinness World Records and Ripley's is putting together the most
exciting Friday night Martial Arts Extravaganza, breaking world records and setting new
ones. There will be demonstrations on everything from self defense, weapons, KI,
breaking, to ripping phone books and decks of cards. This will be a show that everyone
will want to attend.
We are currently appointing Directors to help make the Hall Of Fame and National
Training Camp the best Martial Arts event of the year. See the “Directors” article later in
the eMagazine. If you would like additional information on this year’s event, you may
look at our websites. If there is someone that you would like to nominate for Induction
into the United States Martial Arts Hall Of Fame or if you wish to receive a nomination
form, visit www.UnitedStatesMartialArtsHallOfFame.com or you may email me with
your mailing address at ProfCale@aol.com. I look forward to seeing all of you at this
prestigious event.
The IMAC Emagazine
is designed to act as a
forum for members of
IMAC
and
those
interested in working
with us. If you have
ever had an interest in
writing an article for a
major
martial
arts
periodical, you may
have
found
your
opportunity.
We
encourage
you
to
submit your writings as
well as events in your
dojos.
If you have
specific
questions
about submissions you
can visit the IMAC web
site or email the
Emagazine
directly.
We have had great
feedback from the first
issue and look forward
to getting better every
quarter!
IMAC Emagzine
Executive Director:
Fred Mastison
MastisonSensei@Cox.net
Best Regards!
Prof. Cale
Samurai Quotes
人が彼にとって貴重元気でいる、
および彼に不完全に無益の人を扱
う人をことは偽りなく遺憾であ
る。 1つにまたたく間に渡る夢
のこの世界に洞察力があるべきで
ある。
It is truly regrettable that a person
will treat a man who is valuable to
him well, and a man who is worthless to him poorly.
IMACUSA.Com
One should have insight into this
world of dreams that passes in the
twinkling of an eye.
Hojo Shigetoki (1198-1261)
1
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International Martial Arts Council of America
From Dr. Netherland
Decisions Determine Destiny
Who are you? Only you can
answer this question. What do you want
to be, to do, to accomplish in your life?
Again, only you know. Life is up to you,
not others. If it is going to be, it is up to you.
Life is about decisions, not circumstances.
Many people depend on favorable circumstances
before they step up to act. Others allow unfavorable
circumstances to shut them down completely.
Circumstances do not determine your life, you do, only
you!
Success in life is born of decision, action and
deeds. Expectations in life depend on diligence.
Motivation in life is
seen through the
deed. No deed, no
action,
no
predictable future.
The
chief
thing is knowing
exactly what you
want. Then take
decisive
action
toward that desire
with
resolved
determination to see
it through, without
excuses. A person
unwilling to put out
the
effort
will
experience
failure
but the diligent will
attain success.
What
does
this have to do with Martial Arts? Everything! Martial
Arts are a lifetime journey. You face great challenging
mountains and deep despairing valleys. You run into
invisible walls that hold you back, depressive failures
that draw you back. In the midst of victory or defeat,
life goes on. Where it goes is up to you.
Martial Arts training is a journey, every journey
has a destination. Keep your eye on the destination.
This will keep you moving forward. Overcoming
setbacks, injuries and disappointments is all a part of
the journey. Character is molded on the journey.
Character is who you are, decisions determine what
you are. It is your life, create in it who and what you
want to be. Remember, decisions determine destiny.
Let the Grand Masters Council aid you in the
journey. We are here for you. Several hundred years
of training experience is at your disposal. Take
advantage of this exclusive offer.
Dr. Dan Netherland, 10th Soke
Kinami Ryu Aiki jujutsu / Bujutsu
Chief Director – International Martial Arts Council
Headfounder Grandmasters Council,
United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame
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International Martial Arts Council of America
Budo and the Badge
Fred Mastison Sensei
Assistant Director of IMAC
Director of Law-enforcement Training
Warrior Mind
Attitude is driven to a great deal
by your competence and your selfconfidence. These two points help form
what we will call the Warrior Mind. The warrior mind is
not simply based on the visceral nature of the job we
do or what we teach. It is much deeper and includes
emotional and spiritual contemplation as well. In
essence you have to be as prepared to do your job
from the inside as you are on the outside. Come to
terms with the nature of what you may have to do and
answer any questions you may have PRIOR to
unfortunate events. The use of force may be a nonissue to some while being a very stressful event to
others. Regardless of where you fall in this category,
Unconscious Incompetence
People at this level essentially do not know
what they do not know. Examples of this are people
that have no idea they do not possess the skills to
execute a specific task. Shooting skills can easily fall
into this category. Many people can “fire” a gun but
they do not realize there is a chasm between simple
manipulation and skilled execution.
Conscious Incompetence
This category represents one of the most
frustrating and dangerous groups we work with. These
individuals KNOW they have incompetencies in their
skills and choose to do nothing about it.
Conscious Competence
This represents people that have made a very
specific effort to become competent at tasks and have
succeeded.
They have trained and can now
intentionally execute.
Unconscious Competence
This is the highest level of competency. An
individual has become so competent in an area that
they no longer need to actively think about it. At this
point actions are reflexive.
know where you are. If you are not prepared to use
force to stop a subject or even worse, deadly force
then you need to explore this and remedy it quickly.
Failure to do so can cost you your life. It seems almost
melodramatic to some, but the job you do is that of a
warrior.
Wear this mantle well and always be
prepared to do what you have to do.
The Levels of Competency
A philosophy that we subscribe to is the Levels
of Competency. These levels represent the varying
levels of competency that individuals possess and
attitudes that accompany them. The levels are as
follows:
In order to achieve any level of competency in
any field it takes effort, time, and commitment. Have
the proper mindset about training. Many people do not
always dive in 100%. Many have the attitude that if the
need appears, they will rise to the occasion. This is a
fallacy at best. The truth is that we will not rise to the
occasion, but rather sink to our lowest level of training.
With this in mind I will simply say: Train like your life
depends on it.
Fred Mastison is the Assistant Director of IMAC and is the
Director of Law-enforcement Training. Based in Phoenix,
he holds a 5th dan in Aikido and 7th dan in Aiki Jitsu.
Mastison Sensei is celebrating his 30th year in the martial
arts.
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International Martial Arts Council of America
Every Teacher has a Teacher
Don Wilhelm Sensei
Assistant Vice President of IMAC
As an instructor your students sometimes look at you as the end of the learning cycle. I
feel very fortunate, however, in the fact that in the past year my students have seen that is not
the case. Over the past 12 months our school, Mid-American Mixed Martial Arts, has hosted
three seminars consisting of three outstanding martial artists proving that we all are still
learning.
Professor Marty Cale of Fayetteville, Arkansas is a remarkable instructor and one of my closest teachers
introduced his White Tiger Kenpo and Jujitsu to my students at a past seminar. At another seminar, Andrew
Cargill from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, who recently passed the Bar exam, took time to come visit and impress us
with ground skills seldom seen. Most recently Professor Bob Suttles traveled from Eugene, Oregon to share his
knowledge, intensity and love for the arts in a well informed three-day seminar.
I wish to thank all of my teachers for sharing their time, knowledge and most importantly their friendship.
If it wasn’t for Professor Cale I would never have been inspired to open a school or have the opportunity to be
affiliated with the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame where I met Professor Bob Suttles and numerous other
great martial artists. Through opening my school a whole new set of doors has been opened, new faces have
walked through those doors and everyday I learn something new. One of my own students, Peter Tsahiridis,
introduced me to Andrew Cargill. It just goes to show the circle of learning never ends.
I was amazed how sometimes even I got so wrapped up in my every day teachings that I would forget to
learn. In other words, it was like a wall was up in front of me. I taught, they learned. I only taught what I had
been taught by one of my original teachers who has now since past on. Out of respect I only taught what I was
taught. Until, of course, I met Professor Marty Cale and everyone from the Hall of Fame. They inspired me to
learn all I can.
Professor Bob Suttles explained to me that everyone you touch hands with is there to teach you
something. I will forever be in his debt for opening my eyes to that simple piece of advice. I changed how I view
my training, my teachings and the students at my school. I learned that to teach things outside my original base
is not disrespectful, it’s common sense. So I can now say “the teacher has been taught.” Thank you to all my
teachers.
My Best to you all!
-Don Wilhelm Sensei
Beyond Technique
As martial artists we constantly strive to develop our technique and effectiveness. We punch,
throw, cut and train with intensity that can not be rivaled by any other human endeavor. But what exactly
are we training for? The obvious two points that come to mind are - “To defend against an aggressor”
and “To improve myself”.
I would like to take this opportunity to state my belief that these two points are not separate
creatures. If we look at it in the truest sense, self-defense can only occur if you have at least
fundamentally improved your inner and outer self. This is the challenge of the martial arts. As we grow in
the arts, if we expect to be complete we must constantly forge both sides of our sword - both the internal
and external aspects of our being. This can be exceedingly difficult because we get in our own way.
Through doubt, ego, fear, and all the other aspects of the human essence we are constantly in battle with
our greatest foe and ally - ourselves. There is a phrase “ Masakatsu Agatsu” which means true victory is
victory over yourself. I teach and live by this phrase as I feel it is one of the ultimate truths of the martial
arts. We must conquer all things in us that impede our complete development. This is obviously the
challenge of a lifetime and no simple task indeed. It is, however, a worthy task and one that will ultimately
make us better in all aspects of life. My best to you in your journey!
Fred Mastison Sensei
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International Martial Arts Council of America
IMAC Guest Article
Like Many of You
Like many of you, I started training the martial arts because of cool things I saw
actors doing on tv. For me, the initial attraction was Steven Seagal and his unique brand of
aikido action/adventure. While this sustained me for several years, I slowly began to realize
that the study of martial arts, or budo, was much more than learning cool self-defense
techniques. Over the course of time I became aware of subtle, yet profound changes in my
personality; how I handled conflict, how I viewed problems and even how I interacted in my
relationships with others. Today, I contribute many of the positive benefits of cross-training
in the martial arts to my more productive personality.
I started training aikido back in 1990 and completely immersed myself in
it. As many of you have probably done, I was amazed with this art and thought to
myself, why would anyone train anything else? Of course this was an immature
and very limited perspective, but keep in mind I was new to budo. In talking with
many other martial artists over the years I’ve realized this isn’t unique to new
students of aikido, it spans the realm of other arts as well! Only with training do
we realize that our way isn’t always the only way, it’s not even the best way
sometimes. That is when we begin to look at other answers to questions we
have – we begin another part of our path, cross-training. For an example of my
own, personal path, I started aikido and later found a style of kenpo that intrigued
me. From there I was introduced to Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I trained groundfighting for
several years before coming across Modern Arnis. I feel that my striking skills
were developed from my stick fighting pursuits, as well as my introduction to
kenpo. My comfort on the ground is obviously linked to the Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Although I’ve trained formally in several styles, I’ve also trained briefly in others,
but I’ve been no less impacted by the benefits of those arts either. In 1999, I was
introduced to the somewhat controversial art of Kyusho-Jitsu and from there my
path in budo has really flourished.
The main point of this article isn’t to impress or show how many different styles I’ve practiced and studied
over the years. There is a much more important lesson I’m sincerely hoping you will realize. The arts I’ve
studied and learned were not the important thing. The element that has made the biggest impact on me in my life
is simply this: The people I’ve met and developed relationships with over the years. These people are the ones
that have helped shape and mold me into the person I am today. I’ve met some amazing examples of genuine
and sincere human beings. I’ve also met others whom I feel are still honing their sprits on this path (to put it
kindly). I’ve been influenced and shaped by the positive role models, as well as the negative ones. I’ve realized
the type of instructor that I want to be, and how I want to mold others in the same way that I have been affected
positively. At the same time I’ve seen the destructive side that a huge ego and selfish motives often bring about.
I never want to be apart of that scene, and by filling my path with the positive, I hope to reduce that chance.
Let’s face it, while self-defense is a big part of budo, it isn’t the only part. The chance of me having to
defend my life in a street fight is much less than the chance that I will have the opportunity to shape and mold
another human being. I’m thankful for the self confidence that budo has fostered in me. But I’m even more
thankful for the relationships that I’ve developed with my sensei’s over the years. I am who I am today because
of them, and I have the influence of cross training in budo to thank for that!
-Gary Boaz Sensei
Gary Boaz Sensei holds a 4th dan in Aikido and Kyusho Jitsu
He is the Chief Aikido instructor for Professional Martial Arts in Topeka, Kansas
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International Martial Arts Council of America
IMAC Guest Article
Hojutsu and The Art of Shooting
Hojutsu Ryu, the art of shooting,
is the adaptation of modern firearms
utilizing the philosophy, organizational
structure and discipline of traditional
martial arts. It was recently recognized as a Martial Art
by the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame as
developed by its founder, Soke Jeff Hall. Many
traditionalists would be shocked to hear the word “gun”
and “martial arts” used in the same sentence. Here
are some reasons why the art of shooting is THE
martial art of the future.
When we think of traditional martial arts, we
think of arts like karate, kung fu, tae kwon do, kendo,
iaido, kyudo, etc. These were the martial arts
developed in their day as the premiere means of selfdefense utilizing the human body as a weapon as well
as any number of hand held weapons such as the bow
and arrow, the sword, and the staff.
The gun follows the natural historic progression
of martial arts. Take the best weapon of the times,
study it, perfect the technique
and tactics to utilize it, and
bond a philosophy to it to
make it a true martial art.
But
what
makes
Hojutsu Ryu a martial art? All
of the things that make the old
established martial arts valid
apply to Hojutsu. Here are a
few of them:
1. The practice in the use of
the weapon never ends.
Perfection
in
form
and
application is strived for but true perfection can never
truly be attained, hence, the practice is one that is
never-ending. The discipline of training strengthens
the mind and continually improves the spirit of the
practitioner. Training over time will therefore improve
the character of the practitioner and the practice
becomes a means of self-improvement. Consider the
draw of the pistol similar to the draw of the samurai
sword. It takes a minute to learn, but a lifetime to
master.
2. Hojutsu has a well-defined structure with basic
fundamentals, a training methodology, and an
established history that builds on the technique and
knowledge of its predecessors. It is not the work of
one man, but rather a historic accumulation of
knowledge and techniques by many masters that have
been passed down to future generations. It is a living,
evolving art, constantly improving with better
techniques and weaponry.
3. Hojutsu has a very quantifiable testing method as
opposed to most martial arts which use a very
subjective method of testing. In Hojutsu, techniques
are timed, shots judged for accuracy, and correct
movement evaluated. At the higher levels, testing
requirements are so stringent that they can only be
passed unless an unconscious level (Mushin) of
proficiency has been obtained. The proof of proficiency
is on the target.
In Hojutsu, proficiency is
demonstrable and cannot be disputed.
4. The goal of martial arts for military action has
always been to make one the best and most effective
warrior possible. The enemy will always embrace the
technology of the superior weapon. If you do not do
the same, you have little chance against the enemy.
What is the purpose of only training for a knife attack
when terrorists and criminals are training with guns?
By embracing the gun into the martial arts, one
continues to be effective against omnipresent threats
to our freedom and our safety. The defense of our
country and our way of life depends on the few that
choose to embrace the way of the warrior. The few
then can always be called on to train the many in times
of trouble. The gun has always had its place in the
history of our country. By making shooting into a
martial art, it can become much more than a means to
kill. It can give birth to a philosophy for selfimprovement and at the same time continue the further
development of the gun for self-defense. Hojutsu, then
can be used not only to improve ourselves, but also to
protect our country from our enemies, and our homes
and loved ones from the criminal element of our
society.
For more information see the Hojutsu Ryu website at:
www.Hojutsu.com
Shihan Rod Kuratomi – 5th dan - Gosoku Ryu
Karate, 2nd dan – Hojutsu Ryu
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International Martial Arts Council of America
.2007
National Training Camp & Hall of Fame
The 2007 IMAC National Training Camp and United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame has been set!
Mark your calendars for August 2nd through the 4th, 2007 as we once again gather to celebrate the martial arts.
This year promises to be the best event to date as we continue to grow and improve the event! With a world
class line up of instructors and an expanded staff, the 2007 event will be one to
remember.
We will be hosting the event at the historical Golden Nugget Hotel in
downtown Las Vegas. The Golden Nugget has just finished a $200,000,000.00
renovation and is a fantastic hotel to work with. This location is a great base in
that it offers all the conveniences of Las Vegas amenities in a less hectic
location. For those seeking the newest areas of Las Vegas, the strip is simply
moments away by shuttle! The hotel has been very generous in providing us
space during a very busy convention time in Las Vegas. They have additionally
provided us with special discounted room rates for all participants. To make
sure we meet all of our requirements, we ask that you book your room directly
with the hotel as opposed to any room brokerage service. They can be
contacted at 800-846-5336. This arrangement has allowed us to avoid raising
camp fees which serves everyone!
We look forward to seeing all of our old friends as well as making new
friends! If you have any questions regarding the camp, please feel free to
contact us at anytime! See you in Las Vegas!
Looking for IMAC State Directors
IMAC has made the decision
to revamp its’ state director program.
We are currently looking for new
state directors to work with IMAC.
This partnership is one designed to
serve both IMAC and the state
directors. As a state director you will
be asked to be active in promoting
IMAC and IMAC events in your state. We want
directors to keep IMAC and our events in the forefront
of peoples’ minds all year long.
This is an active
position and will require time and commitment. What
we offer in exchange is membership in IMAC, and a
professional listing of you as state director on our
website along with a link to your website. Additionally,
you will be an integral part in the development and
growth of IMAC.
If you are a serious martial artist that wants to
take on a rewarding and prestigious challenge, then
contact us and we will send you an application. If you
are currently a state director and would like to maintain
your position, please contact us at:
MastisonSensei@Cox.net
National Martial Arts Demonstration
We are currently looking for serious martial
artists interested in performing demonstrations
during our National Training Camp Martial Arts
Extravaganza on Friday night, August 3rd. This is
a prestigious event that will highlight some of the
worlds best martial artists. We are looking for
dynamic martial artists to perform. This is your
opportunity to show your skills on a national stage.
If you are interested please contact us at:
MastisonSensei@Cox.net for more information.
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International Martial Arts Council of America
News Around IMAC
Arizona
Lucy Mailloux of Aikido of Phoenix Satori dojo was
promoted to the rank of Shodan after a
world class test.
Additonally she was
recently promoted to the role of Sempai, or
senior student for Aikido of Phoenix. Lucy
has become a welcomed regular at the
National Training Camp and Hall of Fame
ceremony as Fred Mastison Sensei’s
assistant. Congratulations to Lucy!
Arkansas
Don Wilhelm Sensei and MidWest Mixed Martial Arts
recently hosted a fantastic seminar with SiGung Bob
Suttles. Students were exposed to a variety of
techniques and principles from one of the Kajukenbo
greats. Everyone involved had a great time and look
forward to SiGungs next visit!
Puerto Rico
On August 19, 2006, the Puerto Rico Jujitsu
Association (PJA) celebrated the Puerto Rico 2006
Jujitsu Congress held at the Vega Alta Convention
Center in Vega Alta, Puerto Rico. Sponsored by the
American
Jujitsu
Academy
(AJA), and
other sister
organizations
from Hawaii,
New
York,
Dominican
Republic and
Puerto Rico.
Coordinated by Prof. Jedan O. Figueroa-Soke,
President and Founder of the Puerto Rico Jujitsu
Association (PJA). Chief Instructor of the American
Jujitsu Academy (AJA).
Instructed by Prof. Rafael Nieves (Ninjitsu),
Prof. Bolivar Ramirez (Aikido/Aikijujitsu), Prof. Wilfredo
Vázquez (Jujitsu) and Prof. José Vélez (Jujitsu).
Special Congratulations goes out to René O.
Morales (Shodan), José Morales (Shodan), Geraldo
Morales (Shodan), Prof. Hiram Williams (Yondan) and
Prof. Marcos Ramos (Godan) for their recent
promotions in Jujitsu. Recognized and Registered by
the American Jujitsu Academy (AJA) Yudanshakai.
Conferred by Prof. Jedan O. Figueroa-Soke.
Do you have news? Please let us
know about it and we will let the
rest of IMAC know about it as well!
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International Martial Arts Council of America
Upcoming Events
Special Kyusho Jitsu Seminar with 8th degree
Grandmaster Jim Corn
Chandler, Arizona - Feb 17th
Grandmaster Corn will be
conducting a special one
day seminar in Chandler,
Arizona. This seminar is
open to all styles, ranks,
systems, and affiliations.
This is a very special event
and one that should not be
missed. Join us a for a day and see how Kyusho Jitsu
can be applied to your art!
Contact Fred Mastison Sensei for more information:
MastisonSensei@Cox.net or visit the website:
www.AikidoOfPhoenix.Com/KyushoSeminar.htm
Midwest Winter Open Karate Classic
St. Louis Missouri - Feb. 3rd, 2007
The first tournament of 2007 in the St. Louis, MO area
is the Midwest Winter Open Karate Classic. It will be
held at the St. Ann Community Center, # 1 Community
Center Dr., St. Louis, MO 63074, 314-591-8533.
Contact person is Gail Noblot. The date is Feb. 3,
2007. Cost is $30.00 for all events. $5.00 per
spectator, under six years old is free. Website is
www.midwestwinteropen.com for online registration.
This is a must do tournament!
Southeast Kansas Open
Saturday March 10, Columbus, KS
This will be a SWAT 3 star rated tournament in forms,
weapons and musical forms. Special guest will be the
legendary Bill “Superfoot” Wallace.
For more information contact: Keith Romick
(620)429-1134
romick56@columbus-ks.com
Web Site: freewebs.com/columbustaekwondo
2007 IMAC National Training Camp and
United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame
The dates and city have been chosen for the 2007
National Training Camp and United States Martial Arts
Hall of Fame. On August 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, 2007, we
will gather to celebrate the martial arts and those who
lead the way at the Golden Nugget Hotel. The 2007
event will be held in Las Vegas and is sure to be the
largest and most exciting event to date. So mark you
calendar now to join us at entertainment central for the
best camp and hall of fame yet!
9
International Martial Arts Council of America
Friends of IMAC
THE COPS ARE OUT TO
GET YOU !!!
Employment Opportunities For Martial Artists
Tempe Police Are Hiring
The Tempe Arizona Police Department has a number of highly
motivated, dynamic,
disciplined, goal oriented martial artists.
We value these attributes and are seeking to hire additional team
players. We are a progressive, diverse and technologically
advanced agency that offers an
exceptional benefits package including a $48,925 starting salary,
tuition reimbursement, and a 4 day work week.
Our city is packed with history, culture, outdoor activities,
shopping, dining, nightlife, and special events.
Come to Tempe and discover your purpose.
www.tempe.gov/police
School owners please contact
Officer Julie Werhnyak at (480) 858-6109
Budo Humor
1