Excellence Under Pressure: Celebrating Our New Kobujutsu Dan Grades
At Sunshine Coast Karate, we believe that a true teacher never stops being a student. One of our core philosophies is “Continuous learning & refinement”. We don’t just ask our students to step out of their comfort zones; we ensure our instructors do the same.
Last weekend, right here in Maroochydore, that commitment was put to the test.
The Crucible: Training with the Masters
Following an intense three-day seminar with Sandaime Soke and Higuchi Kyoshi—visiting all the way from Japan—the atmosphere in the dojo was electric.
The seminar alone involved accumulating over 14 hours of rigorous training in the Queensland heat. It was a test of physical endurance, mental focus, and spirit. It was within this environment of exhaustion and high energy that three of our Sunshine Coast members stepped forward to attempt their Kobujutsu (weapons) Dan gradings.
The Results
We are bursting with pride to announce that all three candidates were successful. Please join us in congratulating:
- Sensei Sandra Phillips – Promoted to Kobujutsu Yondan (4th Dan)
- Senpai Selina Strazzari – Promoted to Kobujutsu Shodan (1st Dan)
- Senpai Steven Phillips – Promoted to Kobujutsu Shodan (1st Dan)
Why This Matters for Our Students
These promotions are about more than just a new belt or a certificate. They are a testament to grit and integrity.
For Sensei Sandra to achieve Yondan (4th Dan), and for Senpai Selina and Steven to achieve Shodan (1st Dan), requires years of dedicated practice behind the scenes. It reinforces what we tell our “Little Champions”(4-7yrs) and adult students every day: Progress isn’t just measured by belts or medals — it’s measured by who you become in the process.
When you train at Sunshine Coast Karate, you are learning from instructors who “lead by example”. They know what it feels like to be nervous, they know what it feels like to be tired, and they know the satisfaction of pushing through barriers.
A Community of Growth We are incredibly proud of the standard of excellence demonstrated by Sensei Sandra, Senpai Selina, and Senpai Steven. Their commitment inspires the entire dojo to aim higher.
To our new grades: Congratulations. You have shown us all what it means to embody the spirit of Chito-Ryu.
Train with Instructors Who Never Stop Growing Are you looking for a martial arts school where the teachers are as dedicated to their own growth as they are to yours?
Book Your Free Trial Class in Maroochydore
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