For the past 25 years I have been studying martial arts with much vigor and enthusiasm. In that time I would often be asked many questions such as: where to go get information on a particular martial art subject, where to buy quality kendo and iaido equipment, how to perform a certain technique, what the application of a specific technique is, or just about anything with regard to where to go and get more information about kendo and iaido. I also have participated in clinics, seminars, and competitions held by regional dojos, only to hear about the event only days of the scheduled time and place. I can't help but think of all the events I have missed due to untimely or miscommunicated scheduling.

 

I am hoping that the web based newsletter will provide a tool that each of my students can use to not only learn more about kendo & iaido, but also learn more about each other and the extensive amount of knowledge and information that each member contributes to the dojo. I also hope that the web-based newsletter will provide a way for each student to keep up-to-date with the latest regional, national and international kendo & iaido events. With email and the web, I am finding it easier and faster to relay the information back to each of you.

 

I would also like to ask all of you to contribute to the newsletter. I believe that as each student prepares articles for the newsletter, they will inevitably learn more about the art that they are writing about via research and such. I hope the articles will create interest and discussion between students that will also create understanding. I would ask that the articles focus on Japanese Martial Arts and Culture only. I ask this only because all of my training and most of those of my students of Doshikai have been in Japanese styles.

 

I hope the newsletter will provide a way in which all Doshikai Kendo and Iaido students can learn and exchange ideas on Japanese Martial Arts and Culture. Happy Reading!