November, 2001 Mailbag

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Hi George, 

I'm delighted to get your invitation, and to be kept in the loop. Though I can't make it out this year, I'm thinking of ways I can combine a family visit with Summer Camp attendance. Yes, I remember the 1983 camp and very fondly. It actually had an enduring effect on my understanding of Uechi. Just to let you know, I am actively continuing my study and progressing, both technically and in understanding. It gets more exciting and rewarding all the time. Besides self-study, I work out with Jerry McDonald a couple of times a month, and visited with Joe Graziano recently. He was Forrest and Carmine's student, then Walter's, now Shinyu Gushi's. A very knowledgeable and powerful karateka. I still think of you frequently, and though I can't visit this year I hope to in the not too distant future.

Paul Haydu

HI M. MATTSON, I AM LOOKING FOR LEARNING UECHI RYU KARATE I AM LIVING IN MONTREAL, QUEBEC CANADA. I AM A BLACK BELT IN AIKIDO AND ALWAYS BEEN INTERESTED IN UECHI RYU HISTORY SO IF YOU KNOW ABOUT A SCHOOL IN MY AREA PLEASE LET ME KNOW, THANKS , 
SERGE BELANGER.

Hi George,

I forgot to inform you of the changes to my dojo over the past couple of months. I have basically closed the commercial portion of my dojo and downsized the group to be a little more of an exclusive club in that I have ceased teaching children except for existing child students who have demonstrated a special interest and dedication to Uechi-Ryu. Those have been invited to continue with the current adult core. Our dojo is about 10 members strong and will accept new members provided they are adults or qualified children. We welcome visiting students and I am now renting space from the town of Aurora, Ontario for weekly two hour classes. We will also be carpooling to Toronto to train with David Mott on a semi-regular basis over and above regular training.

This decision was very difficult for me to make since I have been teaching between 6-8 classes a week for about 12 years now (WOW! What a change in routine). I must say that I had become very exhausted and the fact that I have 4 children of my own to care for at home didn't make dealing with the challenges of authority that younger children provide you on a constant basis any easier . The running of a commercial dojo made it so I wasn't there for my children and I knew this had to change for the benefit of my children. There is of course the financial aspect of it all and for the past 10 years my computer business has supported the dojo financially but with the fall in the IT market, my business has been affected deeply and therefore is now unable to continue to sustain the dojo. I made the decision in late January and decided the finish the current children's programs through to the end of May as planned, but I will not re-open children's classes in the Fall. I have also now sub-leased our commercial dojo location.

The Dojo now runs out of Victoria Hall (a 118 yr old church building) on the corner of Mosely and Victoria Streets in Aurora, Ontario on Thursday evenings from 7:00PM to 8:30/9:00PM (Wednesday evenings for the remainder of June). People may contact me on my cell phone at 905-715-0347 or email "sensei@drp-ca.com" and my webpage is still active, although in serious need of updates, at "www.drp-ca.com". My mailing address is 4 de Peuter Crescent, Bradford, Ontario, CANADA, L3Z 3A4.

I have a very good feeling about our new arrangement, I feel it will draw us closer as a dojo and I hope to invite you back up again to visit in the future when we become a little more settled. I should see you at camp failing "force majeur".

With brotherly affection.

Daniel Portelance Uechi Karate Academy

Mr.Mattson, 

I live in ST.Louis,MO and I was wandering if you know of any uechi-ryu dojo's.I studied under Bill Keith in FT.Lauderdale, FL and I'm desperately missing uechi-ryu. If there are no dojos in my area could you recommend a style similar to the uechi-ryu style. Thank you sir for your time and hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely Yours 

Mike Wilson 

Dear Sir,

Is Uechi-ryu a specific form of Karate, or do other forms of martial arts also follow Uechi-ryu philosophy or technique? Would I be just as well served to learn Jujutsu as I would Karate? I apologize for my naivete, but I am trying to decide which form of martial arts might be most interesting a helpful for me.....Thanks for your information........Tony

Uechi-ryu is a very flexible system of martial arts that is a fantastic base from which students can build a well-rounded and flexible self-defense arsenal. 

Regardless of which system you select, I would recommend that you include a method of grappling/ground fighting, plus a method that emphasizes stand-up techniques. Uechi-ryu has the added advantage of being an excellent close-in method of self defense, plus blends well with the grappling arts.

Good luck and stay in touch.

Best, George Mattson 
 =============================
George,

Thank you for your reply. Should I simply ask a school if it teaches the methods and philosophy of uechi-ryu, or how would I go about finding if the school I select offers that method? Also, does uechi-ryu Karate offer the different areas that you mentioned; namely grappling, ground fighting and stand-up techniques? Thanks again..........Tony 

Very difficult to answer Tony. You must watch a few classes, (different ranks) and determine yourself if the philosophy of the teacher represents what you want from a program. Teachers don't know what you mean and may give you an answer that will turn you off, in spite of the fact that they are good teachers and are capable of teaching you the basics necessary.

Wish I could be of more help.

George 

Dear Mr. Mattson, 

I doubt you’d remember me but I studied at your Downtown Boston dojo for three years from ‘76-’79 (I was a brown belt; I had previously studied Uechi for 2 years at another dojo). You only occasionally instructed my classes but we chatted on a number of occasions. I left Boston to get my MBA at Dartmouth, and then moved to Europe—leaving Karate behind, unfortunately, for many years. For what it’s worth I have tremendous memories of your dojo and some great instructors—Bobby Campbell, Clarence, etc—It really was a foundational experience for me. I now live in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and am a management consultant and writer (I have a best-selling business book that came out last year called “Clients for Life.”)

My 17 year old son recently begin studying Shotokan Karate in earnest (reminding me of myself, when I started Karate at around 18). So, 22 years since my last class at your dojo, I decided to join him. Aside from saying hello after many years, I had a question: is there a relationship between Shotokan and Uechi? Many of the moves and stances are quite similar (they utilize both circular and linear movements, for example). I was also struck by the warm-up routine and stretching exercises: virtually identical to the Uechi workout I used to do. At this dojo they also do traditional Okinawan weapons—Sai, Bo, etc; I used to practice a Sai kata at your dojo. 

Thank you for your time. And congratulations on the growth of Uechi—I was very impressed by your web site! (PS—where is Bobby Campbell today?)

With warmest regards 
Andrew Sobel

 ==============================================================

I do remember you Andrew. . . Congratulations on achieving many wonderful goals in your life. I am indeed impressed. Hopefully you will drop into our Forums from time to time and share some of your wisdom with the thousands of martial artist who read and post there.

Actually, it sounds as though you are studying a offshoot Shotokan system. The traditional Shotokan techniques and exercises are as different from Uechi-ryu as water and oil! There are many "highbred" systems out there, that mix and match styles. . . Or perhaps because you have been away from formal training for so long, you recognize some of the generic karate techniques we also practice in Uechi, but are not really a part of our system. 

Any chance that we can exchange books? I have a couple of new titles out that you might enjoy. One of my students (Harvey Liebergott) wrote a wonderful book based on the Summer Camp experiences. He interviewed many of the Okinawan masters and non-Okinawan seniors. Bob Campbell is featured in one of the more lengthy interviews. Bob, by the way, is still living and working in Hong Kong. He has been there for quite a few years.

In addition to my Uechi-ryu, I'm trying to earn a living representing a large Pakistan manufacturing plant. Please check out our website at http://www.sunwinsports.com . Perhaps you can offer a few business tips. :)

Please wish your son the best of luck and to you. . . Be careful in your training. Most Shotokan dojo specialize in sparring big time. . . Not the best for guys our age. Make sure you control your progress, emphasis and direction. Stay healthy and train for a lifetime.

Best, 
George 
ps. We have a dojo in N.M. You can look him up in our "dojo/instructor" listing. Mike Herrmann: Albuquerque NM: 505-292-3675 email: "iac1@unm.edu" Stephen Vosa: Albuquerque NM: 505-268-8797 

pls visit iukf-india test page http://www.geocities.com/iukfindia

Sincerely,

Muthuswamy Srinivasulu

I AM A HUMBLE STUDENT OF MASTER JIM MALONEY.I CAN NOT TELL YOU HOW MUCH HE HAS CHANGED MY LIFE. IF I GAIN IN MY LIFE, ONE TENTH OF HIS KNOWLEDGE, I WILL CONSIDER MY SELF GIFTED. HE HAS GIVEN ME THE CHANCE TO PASS ON UECHI-RYU TO MANY OTHERS. I WRITE TO YOU OUT OF RESPECT AND GRATITUDE. THANK-YOU FOR THIS GIFT.

George and Denise

Hi Mr. Mattson, I'm a student of Uechi-ryu and have recently moved to Las Vegas and was wondering if you know of a dojo that I can continue to work out in this area. I did get my black belt about 10 years ago and am interested in working out again. I studied under Ernie Howland at Brockton Mass. I did attend a few of your classes at your dojo in South Boston. I would appreciate anything you can tell me about any of the dojos in this area. Thanks

Loretta 

Hi Loretta:

I'm not sure if there are any dojo in Las Vegas. Maybe you should start one!! :)

If you have the chance, post your question on the "Looking for dojo/instructor" Forum. Most people who post there get contacts.

Stay in touch and good luck,

George 

George,

A good letter.

Van Canna

 Subject: Stabbing in Japan

Dear Van Canna Sensei, 

I have been lurking over at your Self Defense Realities forum for a few months now, it is definitely one of the best martial art resources online. While I don't study Uechi ryu now, it was the first martial art I was exposed to at the YMCA at the tender age of 12. I finally registered to the Martial Arts Forums but didn't know if I should post this so I am e-mailing you. I lived in Japan for two and a half years and while I was there a junior high student in Kuroiso, Tochigi killed a substitute teacher by slicing her neck from behind and stabbing her twice. 

As he used a balisong, the reaction (at least at the junior high where I was teaching) was to have a teacher meeting to discuss the characteristics of the knife and what can be done to limit knives in school. Nothing was really said about what would motivate a young student to do such a thing to someone else. Though there are stabbings all the time in Japan, the one big thing that separates them from us is the general inability to access firearms. For one I think it is a good thing. As we see what some decry as the deterioration of traditional morals in Japan, the one saving grace is that there will probably never be a Columbine there. For the few people that are allowed to carry firearms in Japan (ie hunters), they are strictly monitored to ensure they will not misuse them. 

Japan is not a gun society, and probably never will be. Perhaps this helps keeps violent crime deaths to one of the lowest percentages worldwide for industrialized nations. Though I was shocked and feel that the stabbing was horrendous, it is just another example of the changing times for the Japanese and will hopefully open their eyes to the need to better deal with their country's social problems. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and insights about the martial arts and life on the forum. I hope to meet more budoka like you in the future. Sincerely, 

Mance Thompson 

Dear Sir,

Is Uechi-ryu a specific form of Karate, or do other forms of martial arts also follow Uechi-ryu philosophy or technique? Would I be just as well served to learn Jujutsu as I would Karate? I apologize for my naivete, but I am trying to decide which form of martial arts might be most interesting a helpful for me.....Thanks for your information........

Tony

Uechi-ryu is a very flexible system of martial arts that is a fantastic base from which students can build a well-rounded and flexible self-defense arsenal. 

Regardless of which system you select, I would recommend that you include a method of grappling/ground fighting, plus a method that emphasizes stand-up techniques. Uechi-ryu has the added advantage of being an excellent close-in method of self defense, plus blends well with the grappling arts.

Good luck and stay in touch.

Best, George Mattson

George,

Thank you for your reply. Should I simply ask a school if it teaches the methods and philosophy of uechi-ryu, or how would I go about finding if the school I select offers that method? Also, does uechi-ryu Karate offer the different areas that you mentioned; namely grappling, ground fighting and stand-up techniques? Thanks again..........

Tony 

Best to watch a couple of classes. Both new and advanced sessions. You should get a feeling for what is being taught and will probably be a better gauge than asking the taecher to explain what they teach.

Also remember, once you achieve shodan, you can supplement your Uechi with seminars and sessions from other teachers. Attend the Summer camp to see what all the teachers offer.

Best, George 
 ===========================

Thanks again, George. I appreciate your time and information.......

Tony 

Dear Mr. Mattson,

Are you the George Mattson who came to our dojo in Wilton Manors where DJ Lippner was sensei?

I am trying to fine a dojo here which teaches Uechi-ryu. Do you know of one that is local?? My daughter is interested in back into it.

Thanks

Liz 

Sensei George,

I am honour indeed for your seminar invitation. I am still teaching shito-ryu karate and visit regularly to your site for any new update. My approach to u in the first place hasn't changed just that I cannot afford the means to the States.

Keep me posted if any delicates of u could be contacted in Malaysia, Singapore or Brunei.

Sumimasen.

Philip Lau

Hi Mr. Mattson 

I recently began studying Uechi-ryu Karate for about a month now with Sensei Bob the classes are at the North Shore health club he is a great teacher also and I also get help from another student named Margaret she said you know her. I really enjoy my classes in Beverly and hope to continue other schools for the future. I also just purchased your book Uechi-ryu Karate Do (by G.E. Mattson) which is wonderful my question is 1) which video should I consider or other book that are good for people starting out like me I am 35 but in good shape and love to do this since I started a month ago 2) I also live in CT and spend alot of time in Manhattan and may have to move back to CT in the near future for work so I would like your recommendations on other instructors for CT and Manhattan area. Your web site is great and thank you for your time! . . . I also signed up for your site.

Robert L. Taylor 
 ==============================

Hi Robert:

Thanks for the note and compliments. Always nice to hear that people enjoy my books and that they appreciate Uechi-ryu.

Are you coming to camp (Jul 27-29)? You don't want to miss Master Ryuko Tomoyose. . . 

Anyway, regarding Conn and NY teachers: Please go to the "Instructors" link, which can be found on the home page. John Spenser is a fine teacher from Conn and Dave Finkelstein can recommend a number of good teachers in NY.

Good luck and stay in touch.

Best, George Mattson

 

1.	Mr. Vladimir Popovic	5 Dan	- OKIKUKAI Serbia Hombu Dojo
2.	Mr. Dragan Ciric	2 Dan	- OKIKUKAI Serbia Hombu Dojo
3.	Mr. Vladimir Djordjevic	2 Dan	- OKIKUKAI Serbia Hombu Dojo
4.	Mr. Gojko Kisic	2 Dan	- OKIKUKAI Serbia Hombu Dojo
5.	Mss. Maria Sofotasiou	2 Dan	- OKIKUKAI "Kouros" Dojo
6.	Mr. Paschalis Sofotasiou	2 Dan	- OKIKUKAI "Kouros" Dojo
7.	Mr. Jovica Opacic	1 Dan	- OKIKUKAI Serbia Hombu Dojo

 

 

Belgrade - "SERBIA 2000"

 

 

Crane and Dragon" has been practiced in Serbia since 1973.

It is, at the same time, the only original Okinawan Karate system, which is practiced in this country. Mr. Mario Topolsek, who set up a number of Dojos in ex -Yugoslavia, brought it.

 

 

The new name was given by Mr. Tsutomu Nakahodo Sensei, Hanshi 9 Dan, current president of the OKIKUKAI Association in Okinawa and Mr. Hirokuni Yamashiro Sensei, Renshi 6 Dan, at the ShoHeiRyu Summer Camp in Erlangen (Germany) in May 1998.

 

 

O K I K U K A I    S h o H e i R y u    H O M B U    D O J O
1-7-11 Kitamae, Chatan-cho, Okinawa 904-0117,
Tel & FAX: +81-98-9364413

	Ryuko Tomoyose / General Consultant
	Shintoku Takara / Supreme Technical Adviser
	Hiroshi Ineada / Managerial Consultant
	Tsutomu Nakahodo / President
	Kosuke Yonamine / Vice-President
	Nobumasa Omine / Vice-President
	Takeo Tamaki / Chief Director
	Katsuji Tamayose / Secretary
	Sakae Uechi / Chief of Public Relations
	Yasuo Suzuki / Treasurer

 

   Petar Bogunovi

Copyright 2001 Eastern Arts & Humanities Center, Inc. All rights reserved.