Black Belt for Christmas
MEMBERS of the NEJJKA (North East Ju-Jitsu Kobudo Association) gathered for their quarterly gradings at Thornaby Pavilion last Saturday. Aged from 6 years old, 165 male and female ju-jitsu students were graded with the Pavilion acting as host to all clubs from around the North East.
The gradings offer the opportunity for students to move to the next belt by demonstrating a particular move. The more advanced the belt attempted, the more difficult and complex the move.
With no age, weight or other distinguishing category, the gradings mean that 6 year olds were assessed on the same basis as adults. Despite this, there are a number of juniors at the club who, through training and commitment, have achieved their black belt.
Sensei and one of the club’s co-ordinators, Karl Jessen said: “The standard of student performances was very good at the gradings and the juniors are developing well.
“There are thousands of people in the UK enjoying jujitsu and we encourage everyone to try the sport as it is rewarding in so many ways.”
Thornaby Pavilion Manager, Dave Seller said: “To see everyone going through their routines was a fantastic spectacle.
“This is an ideal use of the Pavilion’s sports hall and a great way for people to enjoy an activity that gets them fit, particularly during the winter months.”
The club meets at Thornaby Pavilion on Saturday mornings, 10am to 11am for children and 11am to 12 noon for adults. For more information, please contact Thornaby Pavilion on (01642) 760971.