H O N O R    T H R O U G H    T H E    M A R T I A L    A R T S

ATTITUDE

Attitude is more important in martial arts than physical ability,
contrary to what many people believe.
A strong and positive attitude will build a strong base or root.
Good attendance, showing respect to your dojo and Sensei,
participating in tournaments and school outings,
and showing an eagerness to learn
all reflect a positive attitude.
Not only does this academy teach self-defense,
but also how to build character
so that you can be strong both mentally and physically.

ATTENDANCE

Missing many classes will cause you to get behind
and will show in your performance in the class.
Attending two classes a week is the minimum requirement.
Good attendance reflects positive attitude
and shows that you are eager to learn martial arts.

Call Sensei if you are to miss a week or more of classes.
It is important that you find out what announcements
you missed while you were out.
Weekly announcements are emailed to you every Monday
(if Sense has your email address).
Make sure you read the announcements each week.

TOURNAMENTS

Occasionally, Red Sun Academy attends tournaments.
All students are encouraged to participate in tournaments
or come as a spectator.
This will further your knowledge of martial arts.
You must remember that tournament fighting
is only a small part of martial arts,
and that it is more important to know how to lose gracefully
than to know how to accept a trophy.
Having a positive attitude at a tournament
is more important than winning a match.

ORDERING SUPPLIES

Uniforms and sparring gear are always on hand
in dojo, but if you'd like to order other items
(such as patches, heavy-weight uniforms, or targets),
see our website (or ask Sensei) to see other
merchandise.  You can place an order any time.
Please pay when the order is made.
Items cannot be returned after 30 days.
Every effort is made to keep costs low.

OUTINGS

To get to know each other better,
we plan fun events outside the classroom,
such as camping trips, dinners, hikes,
going to the movies, etc.  Try to attend.
This shows good school spirit.

TESTING

You are probably entering Red Sun Academy as a white belt.
It takes approximately four months (longer for smaller children)
to achieve each beginning belt (yellow and orange)
and approximately eight months to achieve the rest of the belts,
until you go for your black belt.  That takes about a year.
Thus, it takes at least five years to earn a black belt.
If you do exceptionally well, you may test sooner.
Children often take longer.

Once you have earned all 5 belt stripes,
(which include knowing your kata, your self-defense,
meeting attendance and technique requirements,
and contributing something), you are eligible to test.

The tests are divided into 7 divisions,
each of which are evaluated individually:

Testing fees are $25. 
This price has not changed in over 20 years.
This price includes your new belt and certificate
which will be awarded to you (should you pass)
along with a detailed testing evaluation report.