Young children will grasp the basic techniques of Karate such as blocking, kicking and punching thru repetitive physical training. Conditioning through repetitive routines, games and exercises to build confidence, coordination, and self-esteem. Children of all capabilities will develop a foundation of physical fitness and karate skills. As always, improved concentration and focus is achieved through this type of training.
Dragons (7-8 Yr old)
The perfect age to begin martial arts training, children will learn basic Karate techniques such as blocking, kicking and punching thru repetitive physical training. Conditioning through repetitive routines, games and exercises to build confidence, coordination, and self-esteem. Children will acquire a solid foundation of physical fitness and karate skills. As always, improved concentration and focus is achieved through this type of training.
Tigers (9-11 Yr old)
Pre-teens will learn the basic techniques of Karate such as blocking, kicking and punching thru repetitive physical training. In addition, self-defense techniques are added to the curriculum at this age. Children are conditioned through repetitive routines, games and exercises to build confidence, coordination, self-esteem and physical fitness. As always, improved concentration and focus is achieved through this type of training.
Teens (12-15 Yr old)
We give teens a positive place to focus their energy. Students will learn martial arts techniques including but not limited to kicking, blocking and punching as well as self-defense, grappling and personal safety. In addition to improved concentration, focus and self-confidence a high level of physical fitness will be achieved.
We understand that socialization is important at this age therefore, we offer plenty of opportunities for teens to socialize with their peers through various functions and training classes.
STORM (Ages 13-15)
Our team, with it’s acronym derived from “SPECIAL TEAM OF ROLE MODELS” storm takes karate to the next level by fine tuning students martial arts skills & putting them together creating an awesome demonstration performed at local community events.
In addition, responsibilities and role modeling is taught and expected from team members. Dressed in their “Storm Ghi” team members are required to be in front of the dojo during class to act as role models for other students by demonstrating good form and displaying good behavior at all times. Storm members are required to make a commitment once a week to assist the instructor with other classes. Along with fostering responsibility, teaching helps reinforce and improve your own skills, build self-confidence and improve social skills.
Adults(16 & older)
Adult classes are offered 3 times a week, to help you burn calories, improve your fitness level, relieve stress, meet new friends, learn to protect and defend yourself all while learning the ancient art of kempo karate.
Girl/Boy Scout patch program
Red Dragon Martial Arts is the only karate school in the region that has developed a Girl Scout program with a corresponding achievement patch.
Our fitness/safety program consists of 4 parts: Basics, Self-Defense, Safety & Karate Olympics all carefully developed along with a patch earned at completion of each part.
Sessions are 1 ½ hours long and include water and snack and a patch.
Sessions are open to Daisy’s 4-6 years old, Brownies 6-8 years old, juniors 8-11 years old and Girl Scout 11-17 years old.
Red Dragon Martial Arts is in process of adapting this to the Boy Scouts as well. Stay tuned !!!!
Red Dragon does not require students to sign Contract agreements. Our model is simple, “A fair price for a superior service.” (See complete fee schedule on next page)
Current Group Classes are just $99 a month
Unlimited Classes
Everyone’s Group Class Tuition is due on the 25th of every month for the up comings months’ classes.
All other prices, such as Private Lessons, Test Fee’s, Clinics, Special Events and Equipment purchases are due at time of purchase.
Classes are age appropriate and foster decision-making skills, Self Confidence, Discipline, Concentration , Respect and Self Defense. Teaching personal safety while exercising and having fun!!
(Payment Options: EFT Monthly or 6 month in advance)
Private Lessons
$35 Per ½ Hr Session
A 30-minute “One on One” session with a Black Belt.
This class compliments the Group class. This is 30 minutes of the finer detail of the material taught in-groups. Also, for the serious student who wishes to accelerate his/her advancement, Privates offer an opportunity to ask questions and concentrate on specific areas of interest.
(Payment Options: $35 Paid when scheduled) or (4 for $100)
Set a schedule of two lessons per week
The student should attend often enough to retain information and progress smoothly. Remind your child when it is time to get ready for class; and help him get his or her things together. (The instructor will not let children use parents as an excuse if they do not have all their equipment and complete uniform.)
As the novelty of the program begins to fade, other activities may divert children's attention from martial arts lessons. If your child balks at coming, simply say that he or she doesn't have to participate. Put the child and the uniform in the car, and go to class to "watch." After arriving, the attitude will likely change. It is important that you use this opportunity to teach your child to honor commitments -- not to "quit."
Each student is expected to maintain a clean uniform
It does not have to be freshly laundered for each class, but should look fresh and clean at all times. Your child will feel more confident when his or her uniform looks great. Do not allow your child to play or eat in their uniform.
Have a snack
After a long day of school your child may benefit from a quick healthy snack before a Karate class. It’s hard to workout when you’re hungry, especially for children.
Red Dragon Martial arts is a modern kenpo karate school that was founded in 2003 by Bob Downey. With his wife Trish and children Bobby & Ali by his side they began teaching karate classes for children & adults in September of 2003 to rave reviews from parents & students.
In 2007 RDMAA moved to it's new facility at the PAGODA on route 140 in Norton, just south of the Tweeter center. The school has an 1150 sq foot Dojo, 1st and 2nd floor viewing and a pro-shop filled with all your martial art supply needs.
In the summer of 2010 RDMAA opened their second location in Foxfield plaza off route 140 in Foxboro.
Red Dragon also offers creative, fun birthday parties as well as numerous seminars and social events throughout the year.
In addition, our annual family summer karate retreat is always a favorite offering lots of fun summer activities, team building activities (Ropes course) and of course plenty of karate.
Our Facility
Dojo:
All group classes and private instruction are held in a large, well lit, air-conditioned dojo with a padded floor.
Lobby:
A bright comfortable lobby which seats 12 + standing room for more provides prime viewing of your loved one in action. Adorned with plenty of pictures of students having fun during social activities as well as various Karate tournaments and social events.
Pro-Shop:
For your shopping convenience we offer a fully stocked pro-shop. No need to search for pads, mouth guards, ghi’s, gear bags, patches or other karate novelties. We carry them all at competitive prices.
Party Room:
A 300 Sq foot “Party Room” with seating for 12. This room is home to cake time for birthday and special parties, movie and pizza nights and numerous other social activities hosted by Red Dragon Martial Arts. This room is often used as a teen center; a popular safe “Hangout” for siblings while other family members are taking class. You will often find kids doing their homework, eating, playing or watching a movie in this area.
Edmund K. Parker began studying Kenpo with William K.S. Chow at the age of 16 which would be about 1947. Ed Parker learned all he could from Master Chow and studied with other well known students of Chow such as Adriano and Joe Emperado who founded their own system called Kajukenbo which is a blend of Kenpo, weapons, and also has influences from other systems. Other practitioners included Bobby Lowe (representative for Mas Oyama in Hawaii), Paul Yamaguchi, Masaichi Oshiro (representative for Gogen Yamaguchi of the Goju-ryu style), and Manny de la Cruz. Parker later attended Brigham Young University and at the outbreak of the Korean War was stationed in Hawaii with the U.S. Coast Guard. This gave him the opportunity to study further with Master Chow. Chow wanted Parker to begin Kenpo full-time on the mainland and was prepared to move to California when Ed Parker opened his second club. However, Chow later declined; possibly because of his strong ties in Hawaii, Ed's formal education which would stand him in good stead with the general public, and possibly Chow's accent which he did not think would be of great asset to Ed Parker's presentations. Chow saw that he could still continue to teach Ed from Hawaii and thus, never moved to the continental U.S. While at Brigham Young University, Ed Parker, 23 years of age at the time, had a closed club, teaching only students of Polynesian descent and law enforcement officers. One of the law enforcement officers was Charles Beeder Sr. who became Ed's permanent assistant.
After graduation from BYU, Ed Parker moved to California and opened his second school in 1956 (ranked as a 3rd degree black belt) and also founded the International Kenpo Karate Association the same year. He continually advanced the Kenpo system which pleased Master Chow very much. Ed Parker had numerous students and friends in the film industry and went on to assist in many films as a Martial Arts technical advisor. He can be seen in most of the "Pink Panther" movies in which he not only did the acting, but also the fight scenes. Mr. Parker believed that the Martial Arts did not always have to be serious, but that one should have fun with them as well. This is evident in the "Pink Panther" film series. He also played the bad-guy in a film entitled "The Seven" which showed some great Kenpo moves. In 1964, Mr. Parker held his first "Long Beach International Karate Championship" which became the largest Martial Arts tournament in the U.S. for many years. It was at this tournament that he introduced Bruce Lee to the American Public who became enamored with him. Contradictory to what the film "The Dragon" portrayed, Bruce Lee did not fight anyone at the tournament, but simply gave a demonstration of his style which has since become known as Jeet Koon-do. Mr. Parker helped Bruce Lee obtain the role of Kato in the "Green Hornet" television series. Bruce Lee was later to have a chance as the star in the "Kung Fu" television series. However, it was felt by the film producers that the general public was not yet ready for an Oriental starring actor and the part was given to David Carridine instead. After this, Bruce Lee began making his movies in the Orient instead of the U.S. Shortly before his death, William K.S. Chow promoted Edmund K. Parker to the rank of 10th degree black belt. Ed Parker was the only student Chow ever promoted to 10th degree rank, despite what others claim. This was done not only because of Mr. Parker's skill in the Art, but because of the many innovations and advancements Parker had made to the system with Master Chow's approval. Mr. Parker was the first to open a commercial karate studio in the U.S., the first to conduct a karate class on a college campus, the first faculty member to teach karate on the college campus, the first authentic karate advisor for TV and film, the first to publish a rule booklet on free-style competition, the first to teach karate to law enforcement officers, and many other firsts. He was truly, and has been recognized as such, the Father of American Karate. As Parker "Americanized" (as Chow had envisioned) and further developed the Kenpo system, he developed specific requirements for each rank over a period of about 15 years. He was initially opposed to a belt ranking systems since many of the Chinese systems only had a rope for a novice and a black belt for the advanced student. However, as the needs of each group such as law enforcement compared to the average citizen were more recognized, Mr. Parker introduced a belt ranking system to go along with his requirements. The colors are yellow, orange, purple, blue, green, brown, and black. The colors signify proficiency, achievement, and authority. This belt ranking system has become widely used by most major Martial Arts systems in the U.S. today. Others have claimed to come up with many of Parker's ideas first, but their claims have absolutely no credibility according to historical accounts and published records. Mr. Parker is without question the most innovative Martial Artist that has ever lived. He has often been referred to as a "genius of motion" and was called by many throughout the world as "Mr. Karate".
AI and Jim Tracy (two other Parker students) began taking Kenpo from Mr. Parker in about 1958 and left his tutelage about 1961 to open their own school. Since that time they have created the Tracy Kenpo system with headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky. The Tracy system is essentially the only other Kenpo system with any recognition and is considered a minor system in comparison to the Parker System (which was extensively innovated by Parker with Chow's approval) through Master William K.S. Chow. At the time they broke off, Parker was making significant changes (again, with Master Chow's approval) in the Parker Kenpo System which, because they left after only a few years tutelage, never benefited from. The Tracy system taught many of the principles learned from Mr. Parker during its early years. However, it now teaches only minimal ideas and concepts learned from Mr. Parker. The Tracy's developed their own system as an original branch from Parker, but began to mix the Japanese ancestral teachings of Mitose which did not impress Mr. Parker (see the following paragraphs). On November 18, 1990 they closed out their "old" Tracy System and terminated all roots and ties to both Ed Parker and William K.S. Chow (Tracy, 1993). During this time, AI Tracy promoted Ray Arquilla to 8th degree black belt, the last to be promoted in the "old" Tracy system. Directly after this, Ray Arquilla (who worked as a prison guard in Folsom Prison and who had supposedly been promoted to Master #3 in March 1981 by Mitose while Mitose was incarcerated), immediately promoted AI Tracy to 10th degree black belt. This promotion supposedly gives the Tracy's legal, legitimate succession through the Mitose clan on the Japanese side (Tracy, 1993). It is claimed that Ray Arquilla's rank from Mitose as Master #3 was in the Kosho Shorei system. The name itself appears to be a mixture of the Kosho-ryu (Old Pint Tree Style) and the style of ShorinOji Kenpo which the Mitose clan originally learned from Chinese masters (as passed down from Tamo) and later extensively modified and renamed Kosho-ryu. The rank AI Tracy received is not recognized as rank in the Parker system and is in no way affiliated with the Parker system or what it reaches. It is interesting to note that while the Tracy System claims to teach the original concepts of Grand Master William K.S. Chow, that they have completely and officially cut all ties to both Chow and his most recognized disciple, Ed Parker (Tracy, 1993) to whom Chow passed the mantle of authority. Thus, the concepts which Parker and Chow sought so diligently to combine for over 80 years - the circular and linear - were very easily discarded.
It is commonly believed that many of the students who left Mr. Parker to brave the world on their own did so in great bitterness. However, it is simply analogous to a parent and child. The child grows up doing everything the parent instructs them to do, but the day comes when the child must develop and grow on his own. This is what Mr. Parker anticipated and what has generally happened with many of his advanced students. Chuck Sullivan, Joe Palanzo, Stephen Snelson, Huk Planas, and Larry Tatum are good examples of this. The starting of their separate organizations in no way diminishes the Parker system or the authority to promote. Remember the old adage, "emulation is the sincerest form of flattery". Within the Parker System, Ed Parker gave the authority to promote to two belt levels below a chief instructor's rank. For example, if instructor A is 6th degree, then he/she may promote student B to 4th degree before a 3-5 member panel of advanced ranked black belts. Consequently, as some have suggested, the Parker system is not dead but will live on because the Masters in the system have authority to promote and expand the art. Also, organizations or masters of other systems can separately or band together and with their combined rank, promote another to grandmaster or 10th degree black belt. This in no way diminishes the rank, but makes it more recognizable because the promotion is under the auspices and authority of a board of governors or council of instructors. In established systems, the Grand Master will not likely promote any disciple to 10th degree black belt who does not present his/her-self before a board or council of recognized, advanced ranked masters and other black belts for the purpose of a test questioning the experience, knowledge, and physical teaching ability and application skills of the individual. This gives credibility to any such promotion and has al- ways been the way with the Martial Arts.
The Parker System has expanded to many countries around the world, but as Mr. Parker suggested himself, it is not mere numbers that are important, it is the conscientious and sincere instructors and students which are wanted; those who thirst for knowledge in a truly unique martial art. There have been many myths and untruths espoused about Mr. Parker and the Parker System. His relationship to Chow and Mitose, etc. Mr. Parker was the only student which William K. S. Chow ever promoted to 10th degree black belt in Kenpo (despite claims by others). Legally and in simplistic terms, one can say that Mr. Parker simply failed to protect himself - it's rather ironic. Regardless of this, Mr. Parker was recognized throughout the world in the Martial Arts community and by most Martial Arts masters as a Grand Master because of his significant contributions to the Martial Arts in America, his unrefuted proficiency and skill, and his extensive improvements and innovations of the Kenpo Karate taught to him by Master Chow. This fulfilled Chow's own vision of Kenpo to such an extent that Master Chow was both eager and excited to promote a student who had achieved higher recognized merits in the Martial Arts than Master Chow had ever expected. Mr. Parker was the "Father" of American Kenpo Karate, is the undisputed "Father" of American Karate, and an innovative genius. To obtain the achievements Mr. Parker obtained took over 40 years of hard work; he was truly a first class pioneer of American Karate.
Contrary to widely held accounts, Mr. Parker was never a student of James Mitose. Here are Mr. Parker's own words regarding the subject. "Contrary to some of the claims that have been made in publications, I was never a student of James M. Mitose. However, he did visit me at my home and Kenpo School in Pasadena, California during the early 1970's. His visits extended over a five month period. Each time I saw him, he was dressed as an ordained minister. Many of our conversations lasted hours on end, touching upon an array of topics as well as his proposed money raising projects. He was knowledgeable about the evolution of Kenpo, revealing many interesting historical facts. On occasion, he would take off his shoes, walk on the mat area (of my Pasadena School), demonstrate self-defense techniques and discuss Kenpo principles with some of my Black Belt students; namely, Tom Kelly, Richard "Huk" Planas, Bob Perry, and Mike Pic. I noticed, after Mitose demonstrated techniques, that my students would look at me hoping to detect from my facial expressions some reaction confirming or condemning Mitose's performance. As I gazed into their faces, I could detect telltale expressions of bewilderment and disappointment. Many of Mitose's moves leaned heavily toward impractical methods of application. They seemed to lack continuity and forethought and left him dangerously exposed. My disappointment was heightened when I witnessed an almost total void of circular movements which Chow had so emphatically stressed in his teachings.
During the months that followed, many other unanswered questions surfaced. What had the Mitose (Kosho) Clan so drastically deviated from the original teachings of Tamo (Daruma) and his Chinese disciples in the frequent use of circular movements? Circular moves had certainly been a vital part of the original system that added to the totality of movement. I could not understand why the Mitose Clan, who had so proudly traced their roots to Tamo (Daruma) were willing to discard and abort circular disciplines as well as other rudiments of motion. I support the Mitose (Kosho) Clan's desire to change the Art to suit the needs of the Japanese people during that period of history, but why did the Clan employ moves that were predominately linear in context? Circular moves, used within the framework of reason (logic) and undisputedly balances the blend of motion which, when given time, inevitably leads to useful and practical movements. Lacking this ingredient would be comparable to replacing round tires for square ones on an automobile. Thanks to William Chow and his father, the crucial link has been restored as well as preserved. They have been responsible for circular movements having again found their rightful place in the Kenpo system. Naturally, it is how you apply circular movements in todays environment that will render the true validity of their significance and importance. Now that circular movements have been brought back into perspective, regardless of modern innovations to make them practical, we can truthfully say that American Kenpo salutes China as its original and prime source of ascendancy. However, while respect and credit will always be accorded China, we are not obligated nor compelled to be subservient to them." (Parker, 1982).
Thus, one may see that Ed Parker was never a student of James Mitose. Mr. Parker was to be disappointed several years after this incident in his studio. Mr. Mitose was arrested for conspiracy to commit murder and subsequently died in a California prison. This caused grave distress to Mr. Parker because it did not fit the definition of "Kenpo Man" as given by Mr. Mitose (Mitose, 1980) and was quite out of character; it had brought shame to the art. It saddened Mr. Parker to see a master in such a predicament. There are accounts of students who learned from Mr. Mitose while he was in prison, but according to Mr. Parker, many would not desire to be associated with any Martial Arts Master who had so shamed the art as it would greatly decrease the validity of claims of rank, ethics, and morality of the individual practitioner. How can one trust the message if one can not trust the messenger?
From Parker's own comments, one can ascertain that the Chinese ancestry and not the Japanese ancestry is the more important of the two because in Parker's system a circular movement becomes a linear move and at the same time, a linear move becomes a circular motion so that the system fully incorporates both types. Remember that the Japanese version of Kenpo taught by Mitose was void of circular motion. Mr. Parker was a legend in the Martial Arts and has made a lasting impact on the Martial Arts in America. He has many widely recognized students and some that are very skilled, but not as well known. A good example of one of these is Mr. Gil Hibben. Gil developed his black belt thesis on knife fighting using Kenpo tactics. It was his thesis that was used as a basis for Form VIII (the double dagger form) - which Mr. Parker did not approve - which uses two knives in mock combat. Mr. Hibben's work is well known to any who have seen the "Rambo", "Deep Space Nine", or recent "Star Trek" films. Gil is the craftsman and Kenpo Black Belt who made the knives and edged weapons for these films. Thus, there are worthy and respected black belts in all walks of life who practice and teach the Parker Kenpo System. For a complete history of the Ed Parker Kenpo System, the reader is referred to the books - "Secrets of Chinese Karate" and "Volume 1: Infinite Insights Into Kenpo: Mental Stimulation" by Ed Parker.
While Red Dragon Martial Arts Academy does not officially mandate students to purchase their Uniforms or equipment from us. We do ask that you consider your purchase through us first, as our prices are as competitive as any others. Don’t think because you can get it cheaper that it is better. We can get cheap gear also. It is not a bargain!!
Also, please remember as a valued member of the Red Dragon Martial Arts Academy family your small equipment and uniform purchases will help keep tuition costs down. It also shows a dedication and loyalty to the school. The instructors and the students will appreciate that.
All students must where FULL traditional Karate uniform (GI) during classes. The school patch (Ask Instructor to purchase one) should be sewn on the left side of the GI jacket (Over your heart).
During summer months in intense heat, Gi Pants and a “Red Dragon School T-shirt” may be worn without the Gi jacket.
Footwear:
Students should not wear shoes or sneakers that are worn outside the dojo. You may purchase sneakers that are worn only in the dojo (Training area). Red Dragon can also order Karate shoes for your workouts. See Instructor for cost and details. Classes may also be taken barefoot.
All students should purchase protective gear within the first 4 – 6 weeks of enrolling. This gives student and parents the time to decide if they will stay with karate before making the extra expense. The appropriate gear is required for Sparring, Tests, Tournaments and some Exercise Drills,. All gear is available through Red Dragon martial Arts. http://rdmaa.cmasdirect.com/site/view/60217_Products.pml Please see your instructor to purchase the following gear.
* Mouth Piece - $6.00
* Head Gear - $Online
* Punch - $Online
* Feet - $Online
Shin Pads - $10.00 (Optional)
Fore-Arm - $10.00 (Optional)
* Required for Tests, Sparring, Tournaments & Some Drills.
Sensei Bob has been studying martial arts for approximately 30 years. He began his training in Kempo in 1980 with Shihan Don Spink, and continues his training in American Kenpo with Sr. Professor Craig Lowe . Most recently, earning his 5th degree black belt in December 2011.Sensei Bob is an active member of the Larry Tatum Kenpo Karate association and the World Martial Arts Federation, which enables him to continue his training and education in martial arts as well as get the latest techniques in teaching methods. Always striving to be the best martial arts instructor he can be, he continuously attends training seminars to increase his understanding of the art and the importance of proper instruction. Most recently attending seminars with kenpo great grandmaster Larry Tatum .
Bobby received his 3rd degree black belt in May of 2011
Belt Ceremonies (Tests) are held 3 – 4 times a year depending on a variety of factors such as enrollment age, rank etc. At the end of each test a belt ceremony is held and a diploma is given to passing students. All students are encouraged to invite family to observe the test.
Students should show up for a test about 15 minutes early and check in with the instructor. The “Test Notification” must be handed in with the test fee in order to be accepted into the test. Students will not be allowed into a test once it has begun.
A test is the most important milestone in a students training. It is the one event in which a student shows his/her “Respect” & “Discipline” gained from their training thus far. It is for this reason that tests are not rescheduled. Any student who can’t make a test will automatically be invited to the next one. As a rule, Test notifications will be given out approximately 2 weeks prior to each test so students have time to arrange their schedule. Also, tests are usually held on a monthly basis.
Students should bring bottled water to the test. Please, no cans of soda. Soda can cause cramps during tests. Tests range from 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on age and rank. Please feel free to ask the instructor of an approximate duration of your test.
As always, our parents are welcomed to stay and observe.
Testing for a new belt
The instructors are interested in the "whole child," and will support you in encouraging your child's academic effort as well. Most parents find that martial arts training bring significant academic improvement by developing better skills in memory, concentration, and following directions as well as improved conduct.
During a test in which the student is going for his next rank, A FULL Traditional Uniform (Gi) must be worn with the “Red Dragon” school patch sewn over the heart. In addition, ALL required protective gear must be worn.
Belt Progression
White The beginner who is pure, open in mind, and knows nothing.
Gold The gold, which must be dug from the ground. Indicates one who must work, and dig to achieve.
Orange Represents the sun. As the student rises like the sun, he/she begins to achieve.
Purple Suggests the struggles, bruises, and strains one must endure to achieve the goal.
Blue Represents the sea. As much water as there is, there is hard work in setting high goals.
Green Represents the green of the trees. To indicate that the karateka, like the tree, is growing, and wants to grow to great height.
Brown Like nature in Autumn. The Karateka by now has matured, and aged in his knowledge of the art.
Black A combination of all the colors of the universe. Representing that the wearer has learned much.
Belt Tips
A large part of a child’s character development is enforced with milestones of “Achievement”. As a mechanism for this we award “Tips” (Stripes) at each rank to indicate the child has accomplished a section of training required. This gives the child a sense of accomplishment and pride, and, will boost their self-confidence. “Confidence will assist in better decision making in life”
As a “general rule” at the lower ranks tips are given out on a monthly basis. This is a guideline only, and it is at the discretion of the instructor who gets a tip and when. Technique perfection has nothing to do with a student’s eligibility for a tip. Below are the “Guideline” for tips.
Attendance – Students do not need to come to all classes to receive a tip. However, they must come on a routine basis (Once or twice a week)
Effort – Students must try their best at all times.
Attitude- Students must act appropriately in class and obey the instructor at all times.
Lil’ Dragons & Ninja’s (5-8 yrs) require 3Tips at each belt.
Tigers & Teens (9-14yrs) require 3 Tips at each belt.
Red Dragon Martial Arts Academy participates in 2 Tournaments a year. One will be with the Norton &
Foxboro schools alone. And, one will be an inter-school tournament with our Kenpo friends from Craig Lowes Kenpo karate of Norwood and Kenpo karate center in Dedham Health & Fitness center.
All students are “Encouraged” to participate in the “Red Dragon Martial Arts Academy” held tournament. It is a great way for the students to exhibit their skills, get some exposure to other peoples techniques and to just have a good time. At our tournaments a smile is guaranteed and every child will leave with a trophy.
All students must BOW when entering and leaving the DOJO (gym). This is to show respect for the place where we build our character and strength.
Address all instructors and Black Belts by “Sensei” followed by their first names, such as Sensei Bob. Also answer all questions by "Yes Sir" or "Yes Ma'am", to show an appreciation for the knowledge and experience of the Black Belts. Junior students should display the same respect to all parents and adults.
Always wear a clean GI (uniform) with a school patch while working out in the DOJO. Junior students should not wear their GI outside the DOJO to play in.
A belt signifies the amount of work and effort put forth by the student in their training, and it should be respected and treated as such. It should never be found on the floor.
A belt also signifies experience in the Martial Arts. Advanced students are expected to set a good example to new students and to help such students whenever necessary. Adult students are expected to set a good example to junior students.
There will be no loud talking, playing, eating, drinking, or chewing gum in the DOJO.
Shoes (That are worn outside) are not allowed in the DOJO.
Students should ask permission before using any of the school's equipment.
Students should not touch the mirrors or windows in the school.
NO SPARRING WILL BE ALLOWED WITHOUT REQUIRED PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT APPROVED BY Red Dragon Martial Arts Academy. , Including Head, Mouth Piece, Hand Pads Foot Pads (Kicks), Shin Guards, and Groin Cup (males only). See Instructor to order.
Light contact is allowed in sparring, however, students are expected to use controlled techniques.
Students must have the instructor's PERMISSION and SUPERVISION during sparring.
RED DRAGON MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY SPARRING RULES
To All Students,
PROTECTIVE GEAR IS MANDATORY AND MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES BY ALL STUDENTS WHILE SPARRING. GEAR INCLUDES (HEAD GEAR, KICKING BOOTS, SPARRING GLOVES, MOUTHPIECE, AND GROIN CUP (MALES)
GROIN PROTECTORS WILL BE WORN AT ALL TIMES (MALES)
ALL SPARRING WILL BE LIGHT CONTACT.
THERE WILL BE NO CONTACT TO THE FACE OR GROIN. LIGHT CONTACT IS PERMITTED TO THE REST OF THE BODY AND EXTRA LIGHT CONTACT IS PERMITTED TO THE HEADGEAR.
STUDENTS MAY ONLY SPAR UNDER SUPERVISION OF BLACK BELTS OR APPOINTED INSTRUCTORS (BROWN BELT AND ABOVE)
STUDENTS MAY BEGIN SPARRING AT RDMAA AT AGE 5 UNDER SUPERVISION AND WITH PERMISSION FROM PARENT OR GUARDIAN.
STUDENTS UNDER 18 YEARS MUST HAVE PERMISSION FROM PARENT OR GUARDIAN BEFORE THEY ARE ALLOWED TO SPAR.
ALL COMPETITION OUTSIDE THE RED DRAGON MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN AND STUDENT.
STUDENTS WILL OBEY BLACK BELT DURING SPARRING WITHOUT QUESTION.
ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST BE STUDENTS OF RED DRAGON MARTIAL ARTS IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE.
Students should arrive for class no more than 10 minutes before class. As well, students should be picked up no more than 10 minutes after any class. This applies to all classes at Red Dragon Martial Arts Academy. The classes are scheduled very close together and transitioning students in and out of the dojo can get somewhat confusing.
We appreciate your cooperation and support.
Waiting Area
The waiting area is setup for the comfort of our viewing guests and their children. We will make every effort to make everyone comfortable. Please be considerate of all spectators and do your part to ensure its neatness and remember…. There is a class going on so try and keep the “Little ones” at quick arms reach for the safety of all.
Parents Role
Give strong emotional support to your child.
Ask what was learned at class, praise effort (not ability), and watch progress from time to time. It is not necessary that the parent attend every class. The child must learn to concentrate, which is sometimes difficult when the parent is in the room. You and the instructor can make this judgment together.
If you have questions concerning our classes, please make an appointment to speak with the instructor.
The instructors have specific goals for all classes and for each child. Because you know your child, you are encouraged to be an active part of the goal-setting process. If you feel that your child has negative or frustrated feelings, please try to identify the reasons and speak to the instructor about them, even if they are not related to the martial arts class.
Please, let us know.
Please inform the instructor of any special characteristics or temporary circumstances that may interfere with your child's learning process.
Discipline Guidelines
Discipline is not punishment it is training!
The dictionary states that discipline is "training that produces moral or mental improvement"... one of martial arts major goals. Training means forming new habits and correcting old habits. A child may see no reason to make an effort to change. At that time, your child may make negative comments about the instructor and the dojo, just as you may also hear regarding the schoolteacher. Avoid joining your child in criticizing the program or the instructor until you have had an opportunity to have a conference with the instructor. The instructor is interested in your child's progress, and that progress is best accomplished when the parents are an active part of the team relationship.
If students are in ill health, they should not attend class.If they have an injury, students may benefit from attending the class as an observer or in limited participation. (Speak with the instructor before the class begins.) But if your child is sick, please keep them home and make up the missed class at a later date.
We Love your child But……
We love having your children in class, however, for the health & safety of all please keep them home if any of the following symptoms apply:
Fever within the last 24 hours.
Severe cough.
Severe runny nose.
Sore Throat with fever or swollen glands.
Within 24 hours of beginning antibiotic treatment.
Sensei Bob has been studying martial arts for approximately 30 years. He began his training in Kempo in 1980 with Shihan Don Spink, and continues his training in American Kenpo with Sr. Professor Craig Lowe . Most recently, earning his 5th degree black belt in December 2011.Sensei Bob is an active member of the Larry Tatum Kenpo Karate association and the World Martial Arts Federation, which enables him to continue his training and education in martial arts as well as get the latest techniques in teaching methods. Always striving to be the best martial arts instructor he can be, he continuously attends training seminars to increase his understanding of the art and the importance of proper instruction. Most recently attending seminars with kenpo great grandmaster Larry Tatum .