“Flow”

Region 7 Instructors Clinic

January 24, 2009

Region 7 invites Tang Soo Do Masters from outside the region to share their areas of expertise and to broaden the knowledge and skill of the instructors and students in our region.  These Masters take time out of their busy schedules to “give back” to the World Tang Doo Association, demonstrating the black belt principle of service.  Region 7 truly appreciates this effort and benefits greatly from the wisdom, skill and experience of those who come to us to instruct and mentor.

“The knife is incredibly Yang” and “the knife practice leads to healing.” Master Michael E. Kaye, Oh Dan, visiting from the Penn State Martial Arts Group in Region 8, shared his wisdom, skill and philosophy with the instructors in Region 7 at Scota Karate Academy in Greenville, SC. 

Mrs. Mary Mars, E Dan, led the instructors in Ki Kong, not only warming the body but also “massaging the spirit.”  Ki Kong complemented Master Kaye’s emphasis on “flow” and was, as always, a great way to begin practice on a brisk, winter morning in January.

Master Kaye introduced the instructors to Banda Banda #1 and #2.  Banda Banda is a six count, partner flow drill in which one partner attacks with 6 different “feed lines,” while the other partner counters.   Through the knife instruction, Master Kaye modeled, taught and demonstrated a wealth of teaching strategies; using the right hand to teach the left,  beginning with something the student knows to build a new skill, and teaching the philosophy behind the technique to create a context in which the student can incorporate the new skill.  His knowledge of the history and tradition of the knife and his understanding of the current culture, law and norms, connect this ancient art to our present day world, thus demonstrating another powerful teaching tool. 

Master Kaye introduced “walking in form”.  This technique involved the class moving across the floor in the hyung of their choice.  Other students were then asked to name the hyung.   He later asked the instructors to assume the character of a predator when sparring.  This created a different mind set and approach to the sparring match.  Hissing and snarling resounded through Master Scota’s Do Jang.  These techniques were powerful, fun and challenging teaching tools.  Master Kaye is an astute and insightful observer of people.  He gauged the rhythm of his instruction by keeping a watchful eye on the students, demonstrating the importance of pace and timing on the floor.

Instructors can sometimes become comfortable and complacent in their practice and teaching.  Master Kaye, primarily through application and practical instruction, encouraged the instructors to open and expand their minds.  He taught a number of practical techniques that can be transferred to everyday instruction.  The instructors benefited from Master Kaye’s experience and skill and will use this knowledge to enhance the understanding, interest, enjoyment and skill of the students in Region 7.

Kathy Scully

Cho Dan, #039046

Scota Karate Academy