| Adult Testimonials |
| Peace, After years of looking for a legitimate Ninpo (Ninjutsu) School I’ve found one close to my home and heart. I’ve tried other so called schools of Ninpo and found their technique not legit from what I’ve learned in past literature and other knowledge that I had on Ninpo. It is and uplifting martial art in my body. Before joining the school a doctor from the N.Y.U. comprehensive Epilepsy center recommended exercise or yoga for the reduction of seizure frequency, and anxiety. So I said Ninpo gives me some of both and more. My seizures have slowed down tremendously I am defiantly thankful to Ninpo, my school the Niji Dojo which is a champion without opponent, victorious without competition, my fellow students who are aids in maintaining a good balance in my health, and my guide on the martial way Sensei Ismael Rodriguez a beautiful man with a excellent heart, so come train with us and enjoy. I leave you as I greeted you in peace. Born seven Malik AllAH |
| About two years ago Sensei Ismael Rodriguez
asked me to write a testimonial, to tell how I viewed the dojo. I did write
one. Unfortunately it was lost, and never posted. Ever since then Sensei
has been asking me to write another one. I would have submitted the same
old one, but unfortunately I lost the floppy disk with the file. Two years of asking me to write a testimonial I have finally set out to write it. One thing I can say in my defense of not writing one for two years is the following: as I did not want to write the same amateurish stuff I had written on the first testimonial, I wanted to write a much better one; however, how can one attest to something he loves too much in such a scarce amount of time and space? I, therefore, wanted to take as much time and take up as much space with my testimonial as needed to unravel my story. When I was growing up I was always picked on by bullies. I was always short and that gave people more confidence in kicking my butt. Truth be told, I wanted to retaliate somehow, to stand up for myself finally, but I knew that I would lose. At the same time I just kept on wishing that I would be able to protect myself with minimum of effort and with style–the style is of course to show off for the girls–I would not have it any other way. I was also always a boy afflicted with illnesses through out my childhood, so I was weak in health and muscle. Living a block away from the dojo, I was always passing it by on my way to hang out at the nearby park. What always caught my attention was a little TV set in the window of the dojo, which had always played videos of ninpo practitioners on the mat executing naturally smooth, magically ungraspable techniques with such ease. I would always stop and watch, forgetting that I was actually on my way to the park. A few years had passed and my younger brother befriended one guy who was already practicing at the dojo for some time. That kid hyped my brother up to check it out. So we went over to the dojo to inquire about the style and such. My brother then convinced my parents that we must join–by nagging of course. And I helped. The last thing I wanted was to join the same school as my brother, but I overlooked that uncool fact immediately because that was the only way my parents would have it, and since that was the only way that I would be able to get in I actually did not complain. So I sucked it up, dealt with it, and ended up joining the dojo with my brother...with my cousin...and a few years later, another cousin joined us. My grandfather threatened that he would join also. I remember being shocked to my socks when I first met Sensei Ismael Rodriguez. I have honestly never met a person who was so utterly kind and attentive. My brother and I came in to ask questions for the first time and Sensei was all ears. It was summer, the fan was blowing, and Sensei had his tank top on He told us that he had hurt his shoulder recently, and I found that very heroic. Sensei is my role model and I am very proud to have such a role model. I honestly live to rival at least a fraction of his abundant kindness and warmth for people. In short, we asked Sensei things that we wanted to know, and without having observed one single class–which might have had a deterrent effect on us, as we would have found out that they are intense and perhaps would have reconsidered joining–joined the dojo happily. My brother and the cousin ended up in a children’s class, because they are five years younger than me, and I got into an adult class. I was fifteen and they were ten. I remember being ready to vomit at the time of the second class; the workout was too much for me considering I rarely did any physical exercises. But I was taking it slow, learning step by step. There are two things about the philosophy of the dojo and the art in general that really made me love the dojo: one, there are no competition or tournaments, and second, every student is told from the very start that, although they should make every effort to keep up, they can take a rest for a few minutes when they are feeling exhausted. I believe that is what made this school so strong–the fact that all the practitioners there are united by the same goal to, instead of compete with one another, help and assist the fellow student in his or her quest to learn Ninpo. I did however take advantage of the second prerogative–the one where we can rest when we are tired. I used to rest often in the beginning. My stamina was weak. I had hard time keeping up. Once Sensei came in and asked me if I smoke because I used to get out of breath so often. I was just a wussy. At the dojo I had also met whom I consider my first female role model, Sempai Marcia Young, the highest-ranking student at the dojo and the one in charge of running classes at the time. On the mat she is the lady of few words and always maintains a poker face–an amazing byproduct of extensive prolonged training. Once in the beginning when she and I were training and we were suppose to kick bags, I did half of the set and said that I could do no more. And she gave me a look of "Don’t give me that" and said that yes I can. And yes I could–I finished the set, and, if forced, could have done more. As I look back I realize that had I been left alone and did things at the rate that I thought I could, I would not have accomplished half of what I did accomplish at the dojo; it is due to encouragement and pushing of the higher ranking students to give your best and to train to the point of passing out that I have discovered muscles in my body that I never knew existed, along with developing a more kind and patient heart. When I joined the dojo, there was a wave of students that joined within a month or so with me. After the four years only two of them remain. When I look at the people who do remain, including me, the traits of determination, compassion, honor, and loyalty are found. It was not because the people who did not last long were not able to handle the training–after all, let’s face it, if I could, anyone can–but rather they joined for a while merely to give the dojo a try. The mistake I believe was in the following: the people probably looked for fast results and looked to get more from the dojo and the art than they were willing to give in return. One thing I know about the dojo is that it is like a garden where if you plant a seed it will grow into a flower that paradoxically shall never wither even when seasons change; if we, the students, dedicate ourselves, give ourselves over to the dojo, and become part of the family, we will surely become blossoming flowers. Max |
|
Hi my name is Frank Pignatano and I like to tell you about how I came to love and enjoy the MARTIAL ART Known as "GENBUKAN NINPO BUGEI" . My MARTIAL ARTS training started in my early teens when I was in high school , I am now 43 years old . My friends and I all took different styles of KARATE , then we would compete to see who had the deadliest style . Besides plenty of black and blues the only thing I was getting out of this was the enhancement of my physical and fighting abilities . Iwas already in great shape from all the years of ice hockey and gymnastics , so it was no small wonder I lost interest . There was something missing! By the time I was in my mid 30's I had all this physical strenght wound up inside of me and no clue on how to control or channel it . So I set out on a quest to see if there were any TRADITIONAL DOJOS that I was used to seeing in the old karate movies .Then as fate would have it at the age of 41 I found it! My journey began one April day in 98 . While walking with my long time girlfriend an awning caught my eye . There was a painting of a black NINJA on a fire engine red awning in a posture with his sword held high ready to defend himself . I told myself this must be the place and needed to be investigated . The next day I decided to go in . Upon entering the "NIJI DOJO of BAY RIDGE" I was taken back by the large wood archway that was painted red , the smell of incense ,the faint sounds of japanese flute in the backround and a beautiful mural of a Japanese mountain side painted across an entire wall . Then a man approached me and asked if I needed any help , he introduced himself as "SENSEI ISMAEL RODRIGUEZ". I told him of my problem and he proceeded to tell me about NINPO . He is a soft spoken man with strong convictions who gives up his time to help teach this philosophy of a time honored TRADITIONAL JAPANESE MARTIAL ART . By this time I had already convinced myself that I wanted to join , so I did . Once registered and accepted "GRAND MASTER" SHOTO TANEMURA in Japan , it was time to begin . From the first time I walked into the DOJO I was imediately accepted by my fellow students , not only as a fellow martial artist but as family . Heres a school where you can progress at your own abillity ,there is no competition with in . This is a true art of self defense . NINPO teaches us not only to be a fierce and proud warrior but also shows us how to have true heart . It also teaches you have compassion and understanding to our surroundings and to all things living . These teachings date back some 2000 years before Christ . The history surrounding this martial art shows how the combined styles of certain regions of Japan , China , and India gave birth to this truley esquisite martial art .Through hard work and discipline you too can reap the benefits of trying to be one in total harmony with the universe . As you can see I try to use this phylosophy in my every day life . This Acient Art that is shrouded by mystery and secrets can be yours if one is willing to go in with an open heart and mind . I guess you might say I fond it , I hope you can to . For it's nice to be on the side of good in the never ending battle to overcome evil . Before I say goodbye I would like to thank the man that made this posible . Although I have never met our "GRAND MASTER" I am looking foward to one day when we can sit and share thoughts . From the very depths of my soul I thank you Tanemura Sensei . I thank you for having the wisdom and the courage to share this secret art with the rest of the world . DOMO ARIGATO . May you walk with balance . Frank Pignatano |
|
Hi my name is Jorel Ramirez and I have been a member of Niji Dojo for 4 years and 8 months. It has been a great experience for me to learn a true martial art and I never regret joining this organization. Sensei Ismael Rodrigez is a great teacher and he is like a father to us in the Niji Dojo . I will always remember the teachings of the dojo and I will always carry them in my life. This dojo has given me a new look at life where everytime I step into the dojo I feel like i can do anything. I feel like a true warrior . I will stay within this organization until I learn everything I need to learn. This oraganization is the greatest and it is the true art of ninpo. Jorel Ramirez |
|
Hi, my name is Boris and I have been with Niji Dojo for almost 4 years now. Over the past decade I’ve participated in numerous martial arts and activities including Boxing and Shorinji Kempo. When I joined this school I wasn’t expecting anything demanding. I saw it as something I could do as a hobby in my free time. After my first class the whole perspective I’ve had of the school had changed completely. What I see in every class is focused on working out your mind, body, and spirit. The way we are taught is unlike anything I’ve seen in other dojos. Traditional would be one way of putting it. One thing that sets our school apart from others is our Sensei. I believe that being able to balance out the vast amount of students with maintaining the tradition passed down through generations of Grandmasters is not an easy task. Sensei Ismael is one of the few teachers that puts his students as the initial, not the business. Training under and with Sensei is a worthwhile experience. I’m grateful for having him as my instructor. I am indebted to Sensei, Sempai Marcia, Sal, Bill and others for teaching me everything I know today. In turn I will pass down what I’ve learned to a new generation of students. Boris Kalyuzhnyy, 18 |
| Hi, my name is Louis I Joined Niji Dojo around 4 months ago because it has always been my dream to become a Ninjutsu master and one day open up my own school, so that I could give back some of what I learned. Within my first few classes I realized this would be no easy feat. The workouts for beginners were long and strenuous and the techniques were hard to learn but, worth it. I'm not going to lie to you, it only gets harder. The advanced classes I now attend are twice as hard and twice as long. I feel my self getting stronger every day. However, its not just the workouts that make the classes great, but also the Sensei. Sensei Ismael is a patient understanding man that is always willing to go out of his way to help you. The time I have spent at Niji Dojo has made me a stronger person physically and mentally and I strongly recommend Ninpo for all those seeking a true martial art. Arrigato Gozaimasita Sensei. Louis Schroeder Age 16 |
|
Greetings to All Life as an entity is very complex. According to your upbringing, environment, opportunities and detriments; we are all very different. Yet through these differences we all share the desire for respect and nobility. This respect and nobility is an ever-present feeling you get when you enter Sensei Rodriguezs' Dojo. Whether you are 4 years old or 54 years old, male or female- everyone is treated with equal merit. From the moment I walked in the Niji Dojo as a spectator, I was taken by the level of respect and integrity everyone shared for one another. This respect is something that is not seen on the streets with our neighbors, nor in the homes of our families; but it is in the spirit of every student of this Dojo. This spirit is something that drew me into wanting to learn more about this Dojo and the art that it teaches. I am from Toronto Canada and only come to the Dojo when in Brooklyn. At first, I was intimidated by the traditional customs the Dojo practices but to my avail, my insecurities were welcomed and accepted sincerely. I practice Shotokan Karate and teach Tae-Bo in Toronto. Although I love my martial arts at home, nothing compares to the complete and consistent feeling I have when in Sensei's Dojo. No matter what rank of belt you've attained, there are no comparisons tolerated in the Dojo. Everyone is a student, making mistakes and learning from others. Every student is there to help each other. When you walk in the Dojo, you will see focused and respectful students learning and practicing techniques. You will hear the strong 'Chi' of all students with the techniques being taught by Sensei, Sempai or another student. You will feel the Chi of every student supported by their passion and commitment to the art, the Dojo and each other. You will leave the Dojo with a sense of peace, accomplishment and courage to live your life with. This Dojo will become a part of me, as my heart is a part of my soul. Remember, nothing good ever comes easy and nothing easy is ever good! Hope to see you all soon. Laurie Kourounis, 23 years old |
|
My name is Mohammad Aama (Mo), I have been training in the Genbukan Ninpo Bugei Niji Dojo for about 2 years now. I wanted to join a martial arts school because it's something I've always wanted to do ever since I was young but I never got a chance to do it. I came to a point in my life where I decided to stop having any regrets and start doing what I want to do, but never done. At first I joined this school without knowing what this school was about or what it stood for. The more classes I attended the more my passion for this martial art increases. In the beginning I was such a spaz but the more I conditioned my body, the better it got. Training under Sensei Ishmael is something that is recommended for everyone to do at least once in their lifetime. Training in Ninpo is also something that everyone can do because it improves ones quality of life. During my 2 years in the school, I have attended 2 Tai-kai's, one in Long Island, and one in Maine. I was amazed to see how there were people from around the world training in unison. No matter how different our backgrounds or nationalities or our language are, we had one thing in common, Ninpo. I had the opportunity to meet Grandmaster Tanemura Sensei. Mo Aama Age 22 |
|
I have been a member of the Niji Dojo for six years now, and it has made a tremendous impact on my life. My name is Marcia Young, I am 27 years old. I came to the Niji Dojo to see what “Martial Arts was all about. I thought it was all about fighting and beating each other up. When I walked in the door, I became very shy, because it was all men, and talented ones at that! I joined all the same, and tried very hard to keep up with all the men. Six years later, I am the highest ranked student in the school. Even though I have my rank, I treat each and every student as an equal. I remember how tough it was to enter a room full of people training, and feel it a must to make them all feel comfortable in the atmosphere of our Dojo. I must say that our school has a unique atmosphere, we honestly act like we are brothers and sisters. We are always helping, correcting, and perfecting each other's techniques. As a group we take pride in the progress of everyone who is a member. The training Sensei Ismael Rodriguez gives to all his students, is not only techniques, but values in life itself. He has shown me a better, cleaner, happier way of life. He takes the time to talk to us and guide us with personal problems, and help put perspectives in life, back on track. I have also had the privilege of training in Japan, at Tanemura Sensei's Honbu Dojo. This was a great experience. I was happy that Sensei Ismael, disciplined me well in the Japanese tradition, so that I would not offend any one. Training was intense, and again the training Sensei Ismael gives prepared me for this. I am extremely grateful that Genbukan came into my life at the time it did. Being 21 can sometimes be hard and wrong paths can be taken. It is an honor to train with and under Sensei Ismael, he has only done things to improve this life of mine. And having Tanemura Sensei as our Grand Master, only makes it better!!!!! Marcia Young 27 |
|
Hello, My name is Ed. I've been studying in the Genbukan Ninpo system under Sensei Ishmael Rodriguez for about four years now, and I must say that it is the best training one can receive. You see in this Dojo we do not learn how to fight. We learn how to defend ourselves which is very different. Here we practice powerful techniques (which I pray I never have to use), and incredible self discipline and perseverance. Which though the course of time and under Sensei's guidance, teaches us stronger self respect and confidence as well as a greater respect for our fellow men and women. Being part of this dojo is like being part of a family, because we are very supportive of each other. There is no fear of belittlement or embarrassment here. We are here to train and help each other train. There is no rush. You move at your own pace, and sensei always inspires us to do our best. I won't lie to you. The training here is very rough. There are times when I feel like I'm about to die. But when I think about all I've learned so far and all I will learn in the future, well, to me the reward is worth the hard work. For me, learning Ninpo is a great honor and privilege. To all who read this, hopefully you will join our dojo so that you too can know the joy that ninpo brings to my heart. Thank you, Sayonara. Ed Watson Age 23 |
| I Whitefield Gibson joined the Genbukan Niji Dojo after two years of my initial visit. Before I decided to join, I was planning to enroll in a fitness program at a local gym. I started looking for a dojo with the help of my friend. We began looking at a couple of advertisements in the yellow pages. I started visiting many of these places. One in particular, caught my interest. It said no competition and no limitations. During my initial visit, I met Ismael Rodriguez Sensei, he was very pleasant. It did not seem to matter how many times I came and just looked and talked about the dojo, he was still patient and answered my questions thoroughly. I was motivated by my girlfriend who began to get mad at me for hesitating for almost two years debating whether I should join or not. It has been five weeks since I joined. This is my first experience in learning self-defense. It takes patience and perseverance. I came from not knowing anything to learning the basic rollouts, names of the rollouts; learning etiquette of the dojo, and the history of Ninpo. One thing I found very interesting is what the Genbukan Emblem stands for. The characteristics about it that one can use to build our inner self, not only for self-defense, but for life in general. I am 31 years old and have lived a sanitary life. But in the Genbukan emblem, the sacred mirror, which looked at ourselves along with the character for perseverance (NIN) we express our desire to obtain this oneness. I find it to be a very challenging path, but along with the assistance of the other students whom are of great help, I am striving to meet the challenge. Whitefield Gibson Age 31 |
|
My thoughts about Sensei, the Dojo, and other students, are positive and appreciative. From my point of view, I find the Sensei to be fair and equal with all his students. I also feel that I can ask him any questions and receive an honest answer. I also sense that he is dedicated to the martial arts an highly respectable to the Ninpo arts and Shoto Tanemura Sensei. The Dojo I train at I would say is very comfortable to train at and exercise. The only little problem I have with the dojo is that it could be a little bigger. The students I've trained with at the dojo are very helpful and welcome towards me. I also find them dedicated to the Ninpo arts. I find them to also be very respectable towards Sensei and the other students at the dojo. My reason for studying the Ninpo and Ninjutsu is that I always wanted to learn how to use the sword and learn the other exotic weapons on Ninjutsu. I find Ninjutsu to also be an excellent self-defense for me, if I ever had to use it on the streets. Cairo Bashir Age 26 |
|
Why I joined Niji Dojo: I was looking for a martial arts school to join about a year ago. I had been involved in the martial arts since the age of 17 on and off, but was never able to find a dojo or style that I really liked. One was either sport karate or not practical for self-defense. I had always been interested in ninpo. So I decided to add ninpo dojos to my search. After visiting many various dojos and not very impressed with any, I had two left. Both taught ninpo. I visited the first, a style of ninpo that I heard of before. I was not impressed to say the least. They tried very hard to sell me on joining, giving me deals on 3 months plans and discounts for this or that. My final stop was at the Genbukan Niji Dojo. I was surprised when I arrived, sensei Ismael told me to sit and watch the class and he would come over later to answer any questions I had. As the class started and the students went through various warm ups and then broke up into pairs sensei came over and started to explain what ninpo was about, it s history. Then he told me about the style of Genbukan. As I listened and watched I felt that this was the place I was looking for. It had the self-defense I wanted, it was not sport or competition karate, the students were impressive from the highest rank to the lowest. The techniques and instruction were also very impressive. But most of all sensei Ismael let the school and the style sell itself; he never tried to lure me in with a deal like so many others did. I joined the very next day. I was nervous at first being the new guy at the dojo but my fellow students put me at ease. Everyone was so friendly right from the start. No attitudes, We train hard together as a group. It s over a year since I joined and my enthusiasm has grown with every passing month. The skills I have learned are only a fraction of what this martial art has to offer but I know that in my heart I want to learn them here. William Beers Age 34 |
| Hey everybody, My name is Sal and I joined Sensei Ismael's Dojo about a year and a half ago. To give you a little sense of how this Dojo and Sensei Ismael has changed my life, I must step back and give you my background. Since I graduated college (about five years now), I've been really interested in health and nutrition. Both my exercising routines and diet have been impeccable and have been a way of life. It became so much a way of life that if I missed a day or so, I'd train twice as hard the next time I worked out. I remember when I joined Sensei's Dojo, and how uncoordinated I was both in technique and in mental concentration. So many times I thought of quitting, rationalizing that I attend a gym where I lift weights and I need nothing else. This is when I learned the true meaning of the word 'Nin' or perseverance. Sensei has always been patient with me. He has a way of explaining things that can make anyone understand him. I've learned so many things from Sensei, but probably the most important has been "be the best that you can be". Sensei and the Dojo are now my way of life. I now go to the gym to lift weights to become a better martial artist. In the end, Sensei has made me a better person in general. He taught me how to control my emotions, to never over react to situations and that what seems to look bad right now, will probably be nothing once I allow time to pass. He's right! And this is why Sensei, and this dojo has changed my life for the better. Thank You Sensei Ismael. Sal DiDino, 29 years old. |
|
About the Dojo in terms of spirit. Genbukan Niji dojo is one of the most traditionally structured and run Japanese Martial arts Dojo in NY. The basic setup of the environment is like that of a large family. I have been in several dojo during my limited time in the martial arts, and have never seen a more unified dojo. Usually there is some bickering, dissent or competition between the students. In two years here, I have never seen this occur. There is no competitive spirit in the school, because it is understood that even the highest master can learn something from the newest student. The way that everyday procedures in the school are conducted promotes the kind of family relationship and bonding that is felt by those of us who have been here for a year or more. At the beginning of class, there is a small ceremony where the students ask the teacher to train and teach us. When working with a partner, we ask that person to help us train, to teach us, and we thank them every time they are of help. Respect is something that is taught and transmitted from the older students to the newer ones. Because there is no competitive spirit, everyone will do anything they can to help another. Students are allowed to progress at their own pace, no one is pushed forward unwillingly, and no one is made to feel bad if something is not easy for them. About the Dojo in terms of Martial arts. The basic concept of the martial arts taught here is defending life. There is no sport competition. All the techniques are deigned for a life or death situation, and have been testes by generations of warriors in the highly combative environment of feudal Japan. All of the techniques can be modified to suit a slightly less dangerous situation, but this is rarely needed, since the primary thing taught is to avoid confrontation by all means. The idea behind the basics within the techniques is to escape the opponent. This allows a person more time to judge accurately what is happening in a given situation, and to avoid being hurt by rushing into things. It is truly hard to express what all of this implies, so the best thing is to come and watch a class, and get the feeling of the thing by talking to some of the students. About Sensei Ismael Rodriguez. Sensei is one of the few true teachers I have seen. He is not concerned with the business of running a successful school, but he is concerned with producing quality individuals. When meeting him, he can be quite meek. Some people are shocked when they get a glimpse of what he knows and can teach, and most of his students here have seen barely a glimpse. His method of teaching is something that I have found to be the most straightforward and effective method. He has his students teach each other. The student who can teach a certain thing and make his student do it well also benefits, because what he has taught is in the mind forever, and because often, when one teaches, one discovers new things on the spot. When showing someone a technique I have often been shocked to find myself discovering a new aspect, a new way to understand, and a new application for that technique. Sensei has a nourishing spirit, and this quality, I think, gets passed down bit by bit to his students. Eugene Z Age 18 |
|
I would like to begin, by saying the Genbukan Niji Dojo is a very well rounded environment for training. All the students give 100 % effort and train hard to perfect their technique. Our sensei is very honorable. I have noticed he makes sure all the students train hard and stay focused in training. I wish there were more dojo's like the Genbukan Niji Dojo, which has a lot of heart and spirit. I am a martial artist of 10 years in Wing-Chun Kung-Fu and I feel Ninpo has made me whole in my quest for being a better martial artist. Sincerely, Eric Velez Age 31 |
|
Greetings, My name is Kevin. I started studying Ninpo July 1997. I first joined the Genbukan Niji Dojo with the intention of going to class twice a week, just as an excuse to state I was actively keeping fit (I am an actor and my manager suggested I endeavor in a physical fitness program to keep in shape.) I soon found that I was becoming more and more interested in this martial arts. I changed my schedule, so I could attend more classes, sometimes attending five times a week, I was hooked. I developed a passion and love for the Genbukan and Kokusai system I didn't believe possible. I still attend regularly. Ninpo has helped change my life in many positive aspects, and I feel a profound honor to count myself a practioner of Grandmaster Tanemura's Sensei Genbukan, under the instruction of Sensei Ismael Rodriguez. I could go on, but for the sake of space I will end by saying if you are interested in learning traditional Japanese Martial arts look into this one. It is my opinion that it is the most complete, (I.E. mental, spiritual and physical). Arrigato Gozaimasita, Kevin Kash Age 30 |
| I love to train at the Niji dojo. To me, it is more than just a place where I go to get my training. It is also a place that I can go to and escape from the world. When I am training I feel as if I were in the dojo of our grandmaster. That is because Sensei follows and does everything like Tanemura Sensei, and also because the spirit in the dojo is very real and strong. Almost everybody trains hard and strong. Even though the students are all on different levels, the Dojo spirit stays strong. The thing that makes the dojo so strong is our Sensei. Our relationship with Sensei is more like a father and son, than a teacher and student. That is one of the best feelings that can be felt in a dojo. When I used to train before, it was very different. I hardly ever got to speak to my teacher and I always felt like I had to be on my guard. But here it is like I am at home, and that is great. It's not about money and fame at the Niji dojo, its about dedication, loyalty, and hard training. Pedro Cruz Age 21 |
| My name is Mark Teodosio. I live in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, NY. I’am 16 years old and a proud member of the Niji Dojo. I’have been involved with the school for about a year or more and I thank what the school and everyone in it has done for me. The dojo and its members are very welcoming and work together as an admiringly strong family. The highest ranked students assist the training in the dojo. They dedicate large amounts of time and effort into the classes. They would run the class as Sensei watches our progress and analyzes our points of flaw and perfection. He wants the highest ranked students to have a feel of teaching and sharing the knowledge obtained in their time. The teachings in the dojo are generously given by Sensei and taught by the highest ranked students. Each student learns from one another by giving each other advice on each other's technique and breaking it down in a more individual, understandable manner. I also come as often and early as I can to help out with the children's classes and, as a green belt, help train and teach white belt classes. In training we condition not only our bodies, but are minds as well. Sensei always says to train hard, but only up to your extents. The art is noncompetitive. The only opposition is you. It is a challenge for one's own physical and mental endurance. The challenge it proposes to one's dedication to the art is a test of myself I wanted to take. I am thankful for this dojo because it has made a great impact on aspects of my life. It has disciplined my body and mind in preparation for a world is full of the unexpected. It has expanded my horizons on my views of life and the way things are with its philosophies. Ninpo is not only a martial art it is a way of life. Mark Teodosio Age 16 |