July 11 2010

Little Dragons Grading 11 July 2010

The Little Dragons gradings now take place every 6-7 weeks. It is where the students can demonstrate their improved skills and techniques to attain their next level belt.

SD School of Martial Arts used to hold gradings every 12 weeks, however, with so many students it was decided to add in interim grading days; it also means that students who cannot make a certain day due to holiday or work commitments etc do not have to wait a full 3 months before attempting to get their next belt.

The Dojo was buzzing with the sound of nervous and excited students, covering all ages from 3 year olds to those over 40!

The nerves were, in part, due to the fact that all the students are very aware that they will have to demonstrate good technique and ‘Black Belt Attitude’ if they are to pass their next belt tests.

Sean Doyland, Chief Instructor, and two of his instructors, Mandy Hughes and Richard Hunter made up the team of examiners, who must have been impressed, passing 100% of the students!

Sean Doyland said ‘ Our standards at SDSMA are very high, if you are not up to that standard, you simply will not pass ... we only recommend that students grade if we believe that they have reached that level. I’m very proud of all of the students and instructors, and the pass marks today prove the level of ability and commitment shown by them all!’

The successful Dragons were:

Benjamin Keith, Matthew Gibney, Honey Doyland, James Walsh, Joshua Harper, James Read, Callum Abrahams, Jamie Ruthven, Jaden Raynes, Luca Anzalone,  Aidan Stephens, Louis Coathup, Albert Havord