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Post by Bob Davis on Sept 21, 2012 19:38:33 GMT
Just a query really for those that have already taken the step (or looked into it an decided against it). What are the pitfalls and downside of going it alone as an independent dojo if you are not interested in the competition side of karate? Just collecting thoughts at present
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Post by jimlukelkc on Sept 22, 2012 10:07:20 GMT
Bob, we joined an association which basically gave us autonomy with little to no interference in our day to day running of the club. We still turn over our licence fees to them and our dan gradings are ratified by them. In the main it is liberating, however it is difficult to get involved in courses or competitions ( although I have the same attitude to you with regard to tournaments, I find the younger members want to compete ). We are considering dispensing with the services of our affiliated organisation too as it is difficult to see what we get out of it at present. The downside of that is even more administration duties for me! The upside is that we regularly invite guest instructors and train with whom we like. At present I am looking into a loose affiliation of like minded local martial artists for exchange of ideas etc. Good luck whatever you decide, have faith in your own abilities and there is plenty of advice out there if you know how to ask!
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Post by malk103 on Sept 22, 2012 12:39:50 GMT
What we get from the AMA.....? Insurance, registered, lots of policies and some rough guidelines on how we should operate, grade etc. We use it as a main selling point that we follow their rules, the members are covered by insurance and registered, they can also go to most other orgs and be excepted as guests etc, they will also get a good syllabus etc.
If you wanted to be independant then I think there are companies that will provide you with member insurance, instructor insurance, CRB's and anything else you need. In addition to that you can write up (copy) a set of Policies on child protection, data, photo's etc, also maybe put together a constitution or set of club rules that you and your members will live to. Maybe have a couple of first aiders.
You will gain independance to train how you want which is the main bonus but you may be restricted if any of your club wanted to train elsewhere or moved to a new location and new club - they may require some proof of grading or something.
I looked into it when I wanted to start up my own club but soon settled on being an extension of my existing club, I personally have less paperwork but am more than happy with the club and how its run.
There were a few other things to consider but can't remember them, I googled it!
In some regards I am for it, especially if the instructors are good and will work towards moulding good Karateka. From what i've seen of the couple of local clubs nearby that are obviously running solo then I cringe at what they are learning, a couple have transfered to our club and have no proof of insurance and only a micky mouse book signed by a Black Belt that they have "graded" a few times, they have had to re-learn the basics as their level was very low.
I'm in no way suggesting that all solo Dojo's are like this, just the couple I have seen.
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Post by kensei on Sept 22, 2012 12:44:17 GMT
I have seen the upside and down sides of both going it alone and being in groups.
When I started it was in a big group and while it was okay when we were training with the masters in the beginning it soured! We had political issues like crazy and we left and went it alone. The nice part of being alone, one instructor made all the choices for us and we did not have to put them past anyone or worry about any toes being stepped on.
However, it was tough, no camps, seminars were the same all the time (same instructors) no variety, no competitions ext. That and we really wanted an affiliation. We found a group that is not very political, but kind of runs like a mom and pops (not a bad thing!) and now we are very happy as a group (with the exception of one disgruntled instructor...but he is never happy) and we are back with the JKA which was nice for me.
Now that is a simplification as we actually had one other hick up in the road with organizations, but I digress.....
I guess the take away from all of my journeys is this....dont be afraid to leave and find other places to be, or look about and see if an extended period of time of being alone is okay for you and your group. its okay to leave a group and find greener pastures, and remember what is not good for you may be good for others, so dont rock the boat on the way out....just leave and find something that makes you happy!
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