Sensei Zurriane Bennett - Instructor

San Yama Bushi & Combination GoJu

School of Self Defense

Rules Of Dojo Etiquette

1.      Always bow upon entering the dojo, and bow to senior students (Sempai) and Sensei as they enter.

2.      Always bow upon entering or leaving the mat to show respect for the dojo, no shoes are to be worn on the mat.

3.      Students will wear the traditional Gi, or loose clothing. A Gi must be worn for kyu/dan testing. San Yama Bushi patches must be worn on the GI after passing the first test.

4.      Gi or workout clothing must be washed frequently and kept clean and fresh.

5.      Fingernails and toenails must be kept short.

6.      No jewelry of any kind is permitted during training, for the protection of all students. If the student has a wedding ring which will not come off, they must put a protective covering on it prior to training.

7.      No chewing gum, candy, or food of any kind is permitted during training.

8.      At the commencement of class, students will line up on the mat in order from right to left according to rank. Beginners without a Gi are placed after beginning students with the proper uniform.

9.      The opening of class will consist of the students being called to attention, the students will bow to Sensei to show courtesy , they will then bow to the Joseki (Masters) to show respect for the art

10.  In the dojo, training is your only concern. Talking during class; except to discuss the techniques being taught, inattention to the instructor, or practicing anything else is disrespectful. No one should be talking while another student or instructor is on the mat.

11.  Always address your instructor as "Sensei"or sir.

12.  Your partner is not an opponent. Techniques are learned through him and with him. It should be a pleasure to be Uke (attacker)as well as Tori (defender). Each movement teaches the principles and spirit of the art and should be practiced sincerely.

13.  Care should be taken to be aware of the ability of one's partner so that no injuries may occur. Tori should always be watchful for signs that Uke is in pain. Uke's attacks should always be under his full control and Tori should respond likewise.

14.  Always bow to your partner prior to and after engaging as a sign of mutual respect.

15.  If Sensei corrects your technique, respond clearly with "Osu" or "Hai".

16.  Always thank Sensei or the Sempai for their help.

17.  Never correct or criticize Sensei.

18.  If Sensei asks for extra effort or spirit, all should respond "Osu!", loudly and clearly to show good spirit.

19.  When we strike (atemi) we kiai

20.  When Sensei calls "Yamei" or "Matte" the student is stop his technique immediately.

21.  When you observe the training at the dojo, sit in the proper way, and do not stretch your legs out. Put your hands on your lap.

22.  It is impolite to leave before class is over. If you have a personal commitment, be sure to make arrangements with Sensei before class begins.

23.  At the end of class, students should straighten up their uniforms and line up in order of rank. Sensei and the students bow courtesy, then bow to the Joseki. Then the Sempai calls for the students to formally thank the instructor by bowing to him. After that, the students bow to each other to express thanks for training.

24.  It the responsibility of each member of the dojo to ensure that the various needs of the dojo are met. These include: paying dues promptly, setting up the practice mats, making sure the mat and dojo are clean and presentable, etc. Fulfilling these needs should be anticipated, not prompted by the instructor. They should also be carried out cheerfully, without complaint. Taking care of the dojo and oneself should generate a feeling of pride in doing things to the best of one's ability. This too is as much a part of our training as is repetition of techniques.

25.  It is the responsibility of the higher ranked members to see that the rules of etiquette are understood and followed by the members of the dojo. The members of higher rank should assist the beginners in learning proper bowing techniques, beginning exercises, etc.

26.  DO NOT ABUSE YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE MARTIAL ARTS. Skills learned should be used to avoid injury to yourself and others.

27.  All Students should join the San Yama Bushi Association.

Some Useful Martial Arts Terminology:

Mugai Ryu Iaihyodo

Mugai Ryu is a koryu Japanese sword martial art, founded in 1693, based on two even older styles and a strong foundation of Zen philosophy. It is an iai system, where techniques begin from a draw and end by sheathing the sword. Modern Mugai Ryu is 'cutting iai', which means the techniques are meant to be effective. This is not the Mugai Ryu popularized by Darrell Craig. We are a study group authorized under the Meishi-ha of Niina-Gosoke, 9th dan hanshi, designated 16th soke of the style. He heads the Suimokai, which also incorporates the arts of Shin Muso Ryu jodo and Uchida Ryu tanjojutsu. The style in the US is led by Tony Alvarez-Sensei of the Senpokan dojo in Costa Mesa California. This study group is led by Dave Drawdy, dojo-cho of the Virginia Kenshinkai, which also trains in Nakamura-ryu Batto-do.

Students will begin by learning basic individual forms using an iaito (unsharpened practice sword) and paired forms using a bokken (wooden practice sword). Those interested in training are invited to watch a full class prior to discussing membership. Classes are currently held Tuesdays from 7:30 PM-9:30 PM at the San Yama Bushi and Combination Goju Ryu dojo.

For details contact Sensei Drawdy at drawdyd@hotmail.com

BIOGRAPHY

Zurriane Bennett is the founder of San Yama Bushi & Combination GoJu School of Self Defense. As the Director of the school he holds the title of Shihan. He has studied and trained in several martial arts. He is a 6^th Dan Kyoshi (Very High Master). He began his martial arts career with USA GoJu. In 1971 he started his Karate training in USA GoJu under Shihan Thomas Bennett and achieved his black belt in 1984. That year he continued his training and teaching with Shihan Bennett in USA GoJu Karate at the Mt. Vernon, New York Boys and Girls Club. Sensei Z. Bennett has also studied the art of Nesei GoJu Ryu Karate under Master Earl Monroe, Kumite Ryu Jujutsu under Master Chris Columbo and San Yama Bushi Ryu Jujutsu under Shinan Hector Negron and Shihan David Colon. When he lived in Japan he studied Aikido under a Japanese Sensei on Marine Corps Air Base in Iwakuni Japan. He has also had the pleasure of training under several other instructors in several different styles: Shihan David Colon, Shihan Darlene Defour, Shihan Michael Kelly, Shihan Reginald Brown, Menkyo Gary Gione and Sensei David Drawdy. He has completed basic and advanced training in Law Enforcement Defensive Tactics, Rape Aggression Defensive (RAD) instructor, Project Management, Personal Fitness, Conflict Resolution training, and certifications. He has also attended various training seminars given by other Martial Arts systems, Defensive systems, and Holistic training.

1962- Born in Mt. Vernon, New York. He started his first martial art studies in American GOJU/USA GOJU Karate. He is still actively studying this art and has been for over 30 years.

1971- He started his training in American GOJU Ryu Karate under the tutelage of the Shihan Thomas Bennett, 7^th Degree Black Belt. He is still a dedicated student of Shihan Bennett to this date.

1978- He started training in Nesei GOJU Ryu Karate under Master Earl Monroe, 7^th Degree Black Belt and trained for 3 years.

1980- Awarded the rank of Ni-Kyo 2nd Brown in Nesei GoJu Ryu Karate by Sensei Earl Monroe

1981- He joined the U.S. Marine Corps and has over 20 years of service. His highest enlisted rank was Gunnery Sergeant E-7 until he was promoted to Warrant Officer. Highest officer rank is Chief Warrant Officer.

1984- He trained in Kumite Ryu Jujutsu under Master Christopher Columbo, 8^th Degree Black Belt for two years. Also trained under Professor Visitacion in Vee Arnis during this time.

1989- Awarded the rank of Shodan in American GoJu Ryu Karate by Sensei Thomas Bennett.

1991- Awarded rank of Shodan in Kumite Ryu Jujitsu by Sensei Chris Columbo.

1991- He started his training in San Yama Bushi Jujutsu under the tutelage of the Shinan Hector Negron and Shihan David Colon with whom he still trains today. He holds a Teaching Certificate in San Yama Bushi Ryu Jujutsu.

1994- Awarded Teaching Certificate by Shinan Hector Negron (Head Kaiden) of San Yama Bushi Ryu system.

1994- Awarded Defensive Tactics Instructor Certification, by the Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Criminal Justice Services.

1997- He was awarded the rank 4^th dan, Renshi, in American GoJu Ryu by Grand Master Peter Urban and Shihan Thomas Bennett. Renshi is an Expert of Martial Arts Combative Sciences.

1998- Awarded Basic Physical Defense Instructor Certification, by Rape Aggression Defense Systems (RAD).

1999- Awarded Certification as a Certified Holistic Health Care Practitioner, Washington Institute of Natural Medicine.

1999- Awarded Certification as a Touch Therapy/Reiki III, Washington Institute of Natural Medicine.

2001- Awarded Certification as Certified Personal Fitness Trainer, by International Association Professional Fitness Trainers.

2001- Awarded Certification as an Advance Physical Defense Instructor, by Rape Aggression Defense Systems. (RAD)

2002- Awarded Certification as an Resisting Aggression Defensively for Children Instructor, Personal Empowerment Safety Education by radKIDS Inc. (radkids

2002- Sensei Bennett was nominated for the Men of Vision Award by the Virginians Against Sexual Assault Association.

2002- Awarded the rank of 5th Dan, Title Renshi (Senior Master) in American GoJu Ryu and Senior Expert of Martial Arts Combative Sciences by Grand Master Peter G. Urban, Seiko-Hanshi 10* U.S.A.G.A. Intl

2004- Awarded the rank of 6^th Dan, Title Kyoshi (Very High Master) in American GoJu Ryu by Kyoshi Thomas Bennett 8^th Dan Head Master of The House of GoJu, American Goju Ryu.

2005- Officially opened San Yama Bushi & Combination GoJu School of Self Defense in Woodbridge, VA.

2006- Awarded 3^rd degree Black Belt/Sandan in Shijitsu - Jissen - Karate Jutsu by Reno N. Moralez Sosai Shihan, Bronx Shotokan Clubs (B.S.K.C.) Independent Japanese Karate Association International.

2006- SYBCG Jujutsu system. After training in several systems of Jujutsu, various martial arts, other self defensive tactics. Sensei Bennett started offering SYBCG Jujutsu on August 22, 2006.

Member - United States Marine Corps Martial Arts Association.

Member - The Universal Martial Arts Hall of Fame, Appointed position of State Director for the Common Wealth of Virginia, 2004

Member - Urban GOJU/USA GOJU Ryu Karate Fighting School Network

Member - San Yama Bushi Ryu Jujutsu and Judo Association

Member - American Federation of Jujitsu

Member - Independent Combat Martial Artist Association

Member - Rape Aggression Defense Instructors organization

Member - Resisting Aggression Defensively for Kids Instructors organization

Member - International Professional Fitness Instructors Association

Member - Professional Association Dive Instructors

Member - Military Officers Association of America

Member - United States Marine Corp

Member/Board Member - United States Marine Corps Martial Arts Association

Member - Martial Arts Teachers Association

Life Time Member - United States Judo Association

Life Time Member - United States Judo Association

Member - USA GOJU Karate Association
Life Member - All American GOJU International Karate Foundation

CPR, First Aid, and AED certified.

Sensei Bennett also holds certifications and certificates in Holistic Medicine, Reiki (Touch Therapy), First Aid, CPR, Personal Fitness, Antiterrorism, Force Protection, Fire Instructor, Aircraft Firefighting, Structural Firefighting, Emergency Services, Safety, SCUBA diving Conflict Management, Alternative Dispute Resolution Mediation, Operations other than War.

SELECTED AWARDS AND PRIZES

1994- Awarded Teaching Certificate by Shinan Hector Negron (Head Kaiden) of San Yama Bushi Ryu system.

1994- Awarded Defensive Tactics Instructor Certification, by Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Criminal Justice Services.

1997- He was awarded the rank of Renshi in American GoJu Ryu by Grand Master Peter Urban and Shihan Thomas Bennett. Renshi is an Expert of Martial Arts Combative Sciences. EM

1998- Awarded Basic Physical Defense Instructor Certification, by Rape Aggression Defense Systems (RAD).

1999- Awarded Certification as a Certified Holistic Health Care Practitioner, Washington Institute of Natural Medicine.

1999- Awarded Certification as a Touch Therapy/Reiki III, Washington Institute of Natural Medicine.

2001- Awarded Certification as Certified Personal Fitness Trainer, by International Association Professional Fitness Trainers.

2001- Awarded Certification as an Advance Physical Defense Instructor, by Rape Aggression Defense Systems. (RAD)

2002- Awarded Certification as an Resisting Aggression Defensively for Children Instructor, Personal Empowerment Safety Education by radKIDS Inc. (radkids)

2002- Sensei Bennett was nominated for the Men of Vision Award by the Virginians Against Sexual Assault Association 

2003- Induction into Martial Arts Hall of Fame for Outstanding Contributions in the Martial Arts

2003- Awarded the rank of 5^th Dan, Title Renshi (Senior Master) in American GoJu Ryu and Senior Expert of Martial Arts Combative Sciences. EM by Grand Master Peter G. Urban, Seiko-Hanshi 10* U.S.A.G.A. Intl

2003- Received School Charter License from American Federation of Jujitsu.

2003- Received Black Belt Instructor Membership Certification from American Federation of Jujitsu.

2003- Awarded Regional Instructor of the Year by World Head of Family Soke Council Martial Arts Hall of Fame

2003- Induction into World Karate Martial Arts Hall of Fame for Golden Life Time Achievement Award in the Martial Arts

2003- Induction into Universal Martial Arts Hall of Fame for Renshi of the Year Award in the Martial Arts

2004- Awarded Goodwill Ambassador by Martial Arts Magazine at the Hall of Fame Awards

2004-Awarded Masters Belt at the Karate Union Hall of Fame

2004- Selected for Leadership Award by the World Head of Family Soke Council Hall of Fame

2004- Awarded Seminar Leader Award from the World Head of Family Sokeship Council, Hall of Fame for the seminar he presented at this years Martial Arts event.

2004- Awarded the rank of 6^th Dan, Title Kyoshi (Very High Master) in American GoJu Ryu by Kyoshi Thomas Bennett 8^th Dan Head Master of The House of GoJu, American Goju Ryu

2005 - Selected for Instructor Award by the United States Martial Artist Association Hall of Fame

2005- Awarded Black Belt Certification, World Ju-jitsu / AIKI Bujutsu Federation

2005- Awarded Shihan, European Samurai Ju-Jitsu / AIKI Society

2005- Awarded Brown Belt in Judo - USJA

2006- Awarded Life Time Dedication to Martial Arts in USA GOJU Award from BUDO International Magazine, at their Hall of Fame in New York, NY

2006- Awarded 3^rd degree Black Belt/Sandan in Shijitsu - Jissen - Karate Jutsu by Reno N. Moralez, Sosai Shihan, Bronx Shotokan Clubs (B.S.K.C.) Independent Japanese Karate Association International (August 12)

2007 - Awarded 3^rd degree Black Belt/ Sandan in CJCB Jujitsu by Reginaldo Brown Soke, Combat Jujitsu Combination Builders system

Class Holiday Schedule

Any other dates will be decided by instructor. Notification will be sent via email. All students are asked to please submit a good email address to sanyama@aol.com. We can then send you news and upcoming events.

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