The 9th Annual Hoteikan System Spring Seminar will be held at the US military Academy at West Point.  Your host Soke Emilio "Reno" Claudio & West point Judo Team will be featuring Master instructors Soke Santiago Armstrong (Headmaster), Master Sensei Thomas Carrano (Shihan), and Shihan LTC Hector Morales (Shihan).

Event Cost
$85.00 per Hoteikan member.  Non-Hoteikan member cost is $110.00.  The cost includes Lunch, Dinner, And Seminar.  You must RSVP by April 1st, 2012.  To RSVP please contact either Shihan Thomas Carrano (NY, 718.748.2826) or Soke Santiago Armstrong (AZ, 623.229.9532)

Additional Details
Please  download or view the 9th Annual Flyer for more information.  Flyer
Please download the Application is you plan on attending the event.  Application

Videos from the West Point Seminar have been added to the site. You can view them under the Media Gallery Tab in the Video section.Media Gallery

Photos for the 8th annual Hoteikan Seminar at West Point have been loaded on the website and can be viewed in the media gallery.  You can also click on the link below.

8th annual Hoteikan Seminar

The Seminar at West Point on Saturday, April 16th was a huge success! There was expert demonstration and instruction from some of the top Grandmasters and Masters in the Martial Arts.
 
GM Luis Ferrer wowed the group with his quick hand techniques and devestating Jujutsu defense movements.
 
Shihan Cookie Melendez gave a no nonsense demonstration of practical defense and showed off her Kickboxing skills.
 
Shihan Luis Ruperto demonstrated his weapons expertise to the delight of the group, and GM Armstrong performed a great demo on the DTS (Deflect, Trap & Strike), techniques.
 
The Hoteikan "Warrior Spirit" Awards were given out and the recipients were as follows:
J. McCoy - West Point
Victoria Marcus - Arizona
Roberto Sequiera - New York
 
In addition, Shihan Morales and Shihan Carrano gave wonderful workshops on grappling and striking techniques.
 
All in all it was another great event. I want to personally thank all the instructors and students for coming this year!
 We will be posting videos and pictures of the seminar soon!
 
Thank you all and we'll see you next year!
 
Soke "Saint" Armstrong

Congratulations to the USMA West Point Army Judo team! For the second year in a row they were the winners of the team competition of the National Collegiate Judo tournament. This year, they won 1st place in both the senior & novice divisions!
 
The team is under the direction of Soke Emilio Claudio Jr. & Shihan Hector Morales!
This is truly a great accomplishment! Congratulations to the team for a job well done!
The news article and pictures will be posted soon!

The 8th annual hoteikan system spring jujutsu seminar will be held at US Military Academy at West Point on Saturday 16th of April, 2011 from 9am to 4 pm.

You can read the online flyer by clicking on the link below.

Flyer

Download the Seminar Application here:

Seminar Application

West Point Judo teams take 1st and 2nd Place at Drexel University; Beat Navy 120-0 The entire West Point Judo team descended upon Drexel University for the 2nd Army –Navy weekend intercollegiate Judo team competition. This year, the competition included two teams from Army, two from Navy, two from Drexel University, and one from Penn State. Each team was comprised of one woman and five men in ascending weight divisions and three alternates. West Point Judo Team A included cadets Larisa Tudor (’13), Catherine Donohoe (’13), Josh Sandhaus (’11), John Barnes (’13), Carson Giammaria (’14), Sung Won Jung (’12), Anthony Adez (’11), Patrick Singley (’12), and Nick Hochertz (’11). West Point’s Team B included cadets Ivonne Rotter (German Exc), Katherine Clarke –Pounder (’13), Travis Zahnow (’11), Pablo Rivera (‘12), Charles Bennett (’12), Nick Wahlquist (’12), Josiah McCoy (’11), Spenser Donaldson (’12), and Michael Gibson.  West Point Judo team A did not lose a single match in the entire tournament. They first fought Drexel B and won all matches by Ippon. Four of the matches were won in less than 10 seconds. In team competition, a full throw (Ippon) gives you 10 points towards the win and as all the team members have completed facing their opponents, all the points are added to decide the winner. On their second match of the tournament, they faced Navy’s B team. West Point Judo won all matches by perfect throws and defeated Navy 60-0. Their third and final match was against Army’s B team and team A won the match 30-0 to secure the first place in the competition.  West Point Judo team B faced the Navy A during their first appearance in the tournament.  Team B also defeated Navy with all perfect throws and outscored the midshipmen 60-0. After losing to the Army A team, they went down to the losers bracket to face Drexel’s team 1 for the 2nd place spot. West Point’s B team defeated Drexel 24-20 to secure the second place in the event. Overall, West Point Judo won 29 out of 33 individual fights in this tournament. Three matches ended on a tie and only one was lost. A great end of the team’s fall developmental term where our Judokas met several goals by also defeating Air Force, taking seven first places at North Eastern Championships, bring three medals from the Dallas Invitational, and of course Beating Navy!
Go ARMY JUDO!

The West Point Judo team took 22 cadets to Paterson, NJ on 05DEC11 to compete in the Northeastern Judo Championships. The team was very successful, winning 48 out of 87 total matches against high level local and national competitors. The team brought back a total of 19 medals including 7 first place finishes by cadets San Jung 21 Co C3, Josiah Mccoy 11 Co F3, Justin Adkins 13 Co B2, Austin Bowman 14 Co B2, Elisabeth Posey 14 Co H3, and Juliet Talavera 14 Co E3. Cadets Jung and Adkins were particularly impressive as CDT Jung won first place in two advanced divisions and CDT Adkins was awarded the "Best Technique" award for the tournament. The team will look to build on our success as we prepare to fight Navy on Friday, 10 December.  

Katherine Clarke-Pounder wins the Gold and Danielle Munoz (11) and Michael Gibson (12) bring home bronze Nine West Point Judo Athletes stepped out of their comfort zone and traveled to Texas to compete at the 45th Dallas Invitational. The Dallas Invitational is an USA Judo elite level tournament where the top Judo athletes in the Nation compete from prize money and ranking on the USA Judo national roster. All the weight divisions were heavily populated with some divisions having as many as 25 competitors on them. Each athlete had the opportunity to compete in at least two matches and in as many as seven. CDT Catherine Clarke-Pounder and Mike Gibson fought in the novice division winning 1st and 3rd place respectively. CDT Danielle Munoz, Team Co-Captain, brought home the second bronze medal West Point Judo earns at the advanced division of the Dallas tournament. Last year, CDT Andrew Fant brought the first ever West Point Medal at this event. CDT Patrick Single showed great skill by taking 5th place after two great wins against more advanced competitors. Most of the divisions at this event were won by Olympians and National roster athletes. As we conducted the team AAR, we identify that we have reached our objectives for this event…these were learn from the exposure to high caliber judo athletes, find additional motivation to compete at this level, and prepare for the future approach for Army judo athletes. As a coach, I am proud of the team’s performance and I am enjoying watching their development as competitive Judo athletes.

Soke Claudio, coach of the West Point Judo team and Co-founder of the Hoteikan System was presented the "Coach K" Teaching Character through Sports Award, for Competitive Club Athletics. The coach recipient is an exceptional leader who exemplifies the Army Values of integrity, respect, selfless service, duty, honor, loyalty, and personal courage. This individual does much more than win games - he earns the respect and trust of athletes and makes a profound impact on their lives both as athletes and officers. This is a great honor and a testament to Sokes teaching, that the Hoteikan System and the Judo Team have been aware of for many years! Thank you Soke for your devotion to the Art and teaching. You continue to make better individuals of us all through your outstanding commitment and dedication. 

The 7th annual Hoteikan System West Point Seminar held on Saturday, April 24th was a smashing success! This years event was well represented by the three major Hoteikan groups, Hoteikan Dojo from Brooklyn, the Desert Warriors from Arizona and of course the National Champion Judo team from West Point. In addition, many associate members and friends participated in the event. We had over 70 participants which made this the largest seminar to date. Several of the functions during the seminar included: 3 Shodan promotion/recognitions to: Roberto Sequeira, Victoria Marcus and Christian Pierce, and the handing out of the "Hoteikan Warrior Spirit" awards to each dojo representative. This year the following individuals received the award: Representing Arizona, Carlos Trujillo, representing Brooklyn, N.Y., Anthony Carrano, and representing West Point Nathan Horswell. The workshops during the seminar were well run. Sensei's Thomas Carrano, Gary Rasanen, Lou Ruperto and Santiago Armstrong conducted a variety of empty hand and weapons techniques for all to learn. One of the highlights at the seminar was the extreme team demo competition. This was truly fun and exciting to watch. The West Point team narrowly beat out the team from Brooklyn. Probably the most memorable moment of the whole seminar was the return of the Hoteikan 3 kings. Sensei Casimiro Zayas, Sensei Henry Felix and Soke Santiago Armstrong have not been together on the same mat for over 25 years, so this reunion was special indeed. Sensei Cas and Sensei Henry were awarded the "Essence of Hoteikan" certificate for their contribution to the founding of the System. On behalf of Soke Reno and myself we would like to personally thank all that participated for truly making this one for the books! Until next year!!
Soke Saint Armstrong

(Colorado Springs, Colo.) - The rivalry between San Jose State University and the United States Military Academy continued on Saturday as these teams battled athletes from 24 other universities for titles at the National Collegiate Judo Association Championships at Texas A&M University in College Station. The USMA team from West Point earned the men's team trophy with nine medal wins to SJSU's six with Nathan Horswill and Kyle Schlauch leading their team with gold medals in the 66kg and +100kg divisions, respectively. 

West Point Judo November Highlights
At Air Force (November 6)
West Point Judo athletes dis-played superb Judo skills while defeating Air Force at their own Dojo. West Point Judo Athletes won 20 out of the 22 total matches at Air Force. All matches won by perfect throw, immobilization, or submission by choke or joint lock technique. It was a great experience and showed the level of training our athletes are receiv-ing.
At Armed Forces Championships (November 14th) at Fort Leavenworth, KS
Four members of the Class of 2010 participated at the Armed Forces Judo tournament this weekend at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. West Point Judo athletes, fresh from a 20-2 victory at the Air Force Academy, traveled for the second weekend in a row to compete at this event. Seniors Matthew Song, Daniel Vara-nelli-Diccico, Nathan Horswill, and Dave McCurdy displayed great judo skills and brought home 4 med-als (two gold and two silvers). Nathan Horswill went undefeated in four matches to take his division. Dave McCurdy fought from behind on a true double elimination format to also take first place in his divi-sion. Matt Song and Dan Diccico fought great matches losing only to the first place winner on their respective divisions. In addition, these athletes par-ticipated in a clinic hosted by 2 time Olympian and 4 time World Military Champion Leo White. These athletes are bringing home over 10 new techniques and modifications to competitive Judo which they will share with the rest of the West Point Judo squad. It was a great weekend of competition and learning and once more, displaying outstanding Warrior competitive Spirit.
At Dallas Invitational USA Judo E-Level Event (November 21st)
Eleven West Point Judo Athletes stepped out of their comfort zone and traveled to Texas to compete at the 44th Dallas Invitational. The Dallas Invitational is a USA Judo elite level tournament where the top Judo athletes in the Nation compete for prize money and ranking on the USA Judo national roster. All the weight divisions were heavily populated with some divisions having as many as 25 competitors on them. Each athlete had the opportunity to compete in at least two matches and in as many as seven. CDT
Jung Sung Won (2012) and Cadet Patrick Cronin (2013) won three matches against black belts to share a 5th finish on their Divi-sion. Both Sung Won and Cronin are brown belts who defeated black belts on this event as they battled on the consolation bracket. CDT Nate Horswill (2010) had some im-pressive wins to place 7th at 66kg , without a doubt, the most competitive division of the event. The highlight of the event for West Point Judo was CDT Andrew Fant taking third at the over 100KG division. Andrew, currently a green belt, lost his first match and had to battle on the consolation bracket through three grueling matches against black belts to get to the third place match. His sec-ond loss of the tournament came against a veteran heavy weight who is already on the National roster. CDT Fant was one place away from getting on the USA Judo Na-tional roster, I am confident that he will ac-complish this feat later this year. Most of the divisions at this event were won by Olympi-ans and National roster athletes. As we con-ducted the team AAR, we identify that we have reached our objectives for this event…these were, learn from the exposure to high caliber Judo athletes, find additional motiva-tion to compete at this level, and prepare for the future approach for Army Judo athletes. As a coach, I am proud of the team?s per-formance and I am enjoying watching their development as competitive Judo athletes.
Three athletes received pro-motions for performance: Fant, Cronin, Sung-Won
WEST POINT COMPETITOR

Check out the video of the West Point Judo team vs Air Force Judo, in October 2009. The team was just awesome at this meet. Soke Reno Claudio of the Hoteikan System coaches the team along with lt. Col. Hector Morales. Just click on Media Gallery and look in Member media.

Enjoy!!

You can now checkout the pictures to the 6th annual West Point Seminar on the site. These were taken by the Arizona group and gives a small glimpse of the type of weekend they had! They can be found in the Media Gallery under West Point.  Enjoy!

The 6th annual West Point seminar was a huge success! We had over 6 schools represented and over 50 individuals attending. Soke Emilio Claudio Jr. presided over the clinic with a watchful eye as 6 high ranking Sensei's took turns demonstrating and conducting mini workshops for the students. Master Sensei Luis Ruperto wowed the crowd with a Ninjitsu demonstration that included a sword kata and armed and unarmed defense against knife and gun. The Hoteikan schools demonstrated their specialties to the delight of Soke. Soke handed out several promotions including a 6th Dan rank to Col. Hector Morales, a 4th Dan to Major Ben Ring and officially turned over the System to Dai Shihan Santiago Armstrong with the promotion to 10th Dan. The seminar lasted over 7 hours with everyone completely exhausted but throughly satisfied with the outcome. Photos and videos of this wonderful event will follow in the next couple of days.

The seminar hosted by the New Bushido Dojo in South Dakota was a great success! Grandmaster Santiago Armstrong was the instructor for the event and was accompanied by Master Steve Hust from Arizona. On Friday, June 17th, Grandmaster Armstrong conducted a Hoteikan member only workshop and reviewed Kote Gaeshi concepts along with some practical applications to several Kata movements. On Saturday, the seminar was attended by martial artists from different styles (Taekwondo, Aikijutsu, BJJ, MMA, Judo), as well as our Hoteikan members. These participants emptied their cups in order to learn new techniques and variations of established techniques. They were not disappointed as Soke went through 6 joint locking, kicking and throwing techniques in the morning session, and then treated all to 12 variations of Juji gatame (crossbody armbar) techniques in the afternoon!
I want to personally thank Sensei Brad Walker for coordinating a wonderful event and look forward to working with the group again next year!
 
Stay tuned for upcoming pictures and videos of the event!

Saturday September 18, 2010 - The Hoteikan/New Bushido Dojo travelled to Sioux City, Iowa to take part in a Sport Jujitsu/Judo Seminar Hosted by The American Judo Club and Sensei Lowell Slaven (6th Dan USJA) and Sensei Johnny Tureaud (3rd Dan USJA).The seminar was a great success! Topics of the morning included self-defense, throwing skills, ground techniques and a few of Sensei Slaven's personal techniques and tweaks... The afternoon session introduced the format and rules governing Sport jujitsu competition, a question and answer session and then plenty of open weight jujitsu sparring sessions.Participants not only got to spar at will but also got instruction in how to referee matches.New Bushido Dojo instructor Brad Walker was asked to stay after by both senseis for what he thought would be his Ikkyu test (1st degree brown belt)... He recieved a call on Monday telling him he was being promoted to Shodan. Sioux Falls has a new Judo black belt!

A Hoteikan Jujutsu  workshop was held Thursday , June 10th  in Sioux Falls South Dakota. Material covered included the self-defense kata along with the San Do Ichi Ryu Taisabaki.  The students were privileged to have Shakir Gushgari Sensei instructing.  The workshop was a great success, the instruction top notch and a fantastic time was had by all in attendance…The South Dakota dojo would like to give a special thanks to Santiago Armstrong Sensei and Shakir Gushgari Sensei for devoting their time and effort into making this workshop possible.

For those unfamiliar with our new Dojo Brothers and Sisters from South Dakota, here is their story!.... 
There is an old proverb that has always stuck with me thru my journey in the martial arts…  “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.”<?xml:namespace prefix = o />
It was around 2003, I had been training under my second instructor in the art of jujutsu for about two years.  It was a system I was particularly fond of due to its sharp techniques and its vast curriculum…  Unfortunately due to circumstances beyond my control, the class eventually dissolved.
I was lost…  Having no knowledge of any other Judo or Jujutsu clubs in my area, I started my own search…  Over the next year or so, I tried with little success to search out instructors in neighboring cities and states.  In the meantime a few friends had approached me inquiring about places to train in the martial arts, so in an effort to keep up my own skills I agreed to start teaching.  Before long, word had gotten around and I occasionally had up to 12 people in my small basement eager to train in Jujutsu.  I became so happy watching people attain physical skill, gain confidence and blossom as individuals.  To covey the ideals of our group retaining and honoring past traditions in our modern times, we decided to take the name of the "New Bushido Dojo".
During this time I had discovered the value of the internet community.  I had become a member of many martial arts forums and discussion groups, and found tools to do my own research on the systems I had studied in the past...  I actually made a few good friends who I stayed in contact with on a regular basis.  One of those people happened to be Sensei Paul Farley.
Sensei Paul and I had been in contact for quite a while discussing history and technique…  One day I had decided to share some of my recent findings on the history I had uncovered on that Jujutsu school that I had loved and lost.  I began to tell him how the art I had studied grew out of the art of Miyama Ryu and how the founder had been a student of a Sensei named Emilio Claudio.  This school had started in New York, where I knew Mr. Farley had grown up, so I had decided to ask him if he had ever heard of this school.
 …So little did I know…
 He continued to ask me about my recent discoveries…  I’m sure he was having quite a good time stringing me along in the discussion…  After a few moments of discussing my findings he began to reveal what he knew and assembled all of the pieces together for me…  After years of searching, it seemed like such a small world.  My search had paid off and that old saying that had been stuck in my head for so long had proved true.  My teacher had finally appeared. 
 Together we made the arrangements to bring Sensei Paul and the Hoteikan System to South Dakota.  On  October 4th and 5th 2008, we held the first ever Hoteikan System Judo and Jujutsu seminar in South Dakota.  It was two long days of intense training, testing and wonderful fellowship that the Hoteikan System is known for.
 Then on May 1st & 2nd of 2009, the New Bushido Dojo had the honor of being invited to, and participating in the Hoteikan System’s annual Seminar at the United States Military Academy at West Point.  My small group was formally accepted into the Hoteikan Family!
 After starting alone, I am now proud to be part of a fantastic martial family and surrounded by many amazing  Sensei and fellow students of the martial arts.
 I can’t wait to see where the road leads from here!
 -Brad Walker
 =========================================================================
 Teaching in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and Practicing Judo and Jujutsu since 1998
Brad Walker holds senior ranks in both Judo and Jujutsu thru the United States Judo Association
And the rank of 2nd degree brown belt in the Hoteikan system.
 Brad can be reached by phone at (605) 201-4932
Or by e-mail at   thenewbushido@myspace.com
Or by visiting his personal page at   http://www.myspace.com/thenewbushido

The Judo Seminar at the Hoteikan Dojo in November was a great success and full of surprises!

Sensei Tommy conducted several underbelt tests prior to the seminar and awarded the students with their belts. They performed several Kata and self defense applications to the delight of the senior instructors. As noted, the senior instructors were: Soke Emilio Claudio, Shihan Gary Rasanen, both were the primary instructors for the seminar. In addition, Sensei's Jay Hager, Tony Nataro and John Reddick were in attendance.

This in itself made this a great seminar, but there were more surprises in store.

Sensei Gary, had been working tirelessly with the USJA to confirm Soke Claudio's Judo rank that had been unceremoniously revoked due to political issues in the past. After several years of compiling paperwork and detailing the great work Soke has been doing at West Point, his rank of Rokyudan was reinstated. Much to the surprise of Soke, who was not expecting this at all. This only continues to validate the legend of Soke "Reno"!

The seminar itself was conducted by Soke who demonstrated groundwork and submissions and Sensei Gary who demonstrated throwing techniques.

In addition, there were 2 Judo tests. Yalkin Demikera was promoted to Ikkyu and William Ferraro was promoted to Shodan. Both students did very well in their exams.

John Guierrero was awarded his official rank recognition of Nidan in Judo.

Special guest, Mrs. Barbara Hasman came by to wish everyone well. Mrs. Hasman was the wife of Soke Robert Hasman and one of the original "Hoteikan" moms who was with us since the beginning.

I would like to personally thank Sensei Gary for his hard work in not giving up on the "Soke Reno" project with USJA and for his continued contribution to the Hoteikan Dojo in the art of Judo.

All in all, another wonderful Hoteikan System event.

To all our Hoteikan family members, have a wonderful and safe holiday season!

Soke Saint

Soke Claudio receives his official USJA Rokyudan Rank in Judo

Group shot from the Judo Seminar at the Hoteikan Dojo

The Mixed Martial Arts event on Saturday, February 26th, had a very nice turnout and everyone had a great time. The seminar portion of the event was a great success with the Hoteikan group showcasing expert Martial Arts skills. Shihan Carrano demonstrated striking techniques while Shihan Gary Rasanen showed Judo applications. The participants were treated to a session by Soke Emilio "Reno" Claudio. Soke demonstrated various choking techniques to the delight of the crowd. In addition, Sensei Ailotta showed some ground work and Sensei Epperson worked some variations of the chokes on the ground. All in all, the Sensei's complimented each other by smoothly continuing the theme of complete Martial Arts exhibition, flowing from one set of techniques to the next.
 
An added bonus to the event was the Grappling Tournament portion. Our own Sensei Anthony Carrano won a Gold Medal in his weight division. Sensei Daniel Notwicz also won a silver medal. The Hoteikan Dojo represented the System very well indeed.
 
Congratulations to all the partcipants and competitors for making this event a huge success!

Its that time of year again. The Brooklyn Hoteikan will have our LEAN and FIT program starting February 22nd.
If your looking to loose some holiday weight. Even get in shape and look fantastic for the summer. THIS IS FOR YOU!!!
With this program you will be taught how to eat correctly and take care of you body. You will learn the right excercise's that fit you.  As well as a great work out to really kick you right into shape.
All those interested in the program should call the Brooklyn Hoteikan at 718-748-2826
 

Our very own Sensei Thomas Carrano from the Brooklyn Hoteikan will have the honor of earning the Hall of Honor and Spirit award from Action Martial Arts magazine. The event will be in Atlantic City and we have a great group of Hoteikan members going to show there support to Sensei Tom. We would like to Congratulate him for achieving a great honor.

We would like to Congratualte our eXtreme Team Martial Art league All Stars. These students were the best of the best and worked very hard to show true Hoteikan spirit.
Winning All Star Team
Captain - Lider Intriago
Freddy Guaman
Andrew Guiterez
Gianna Dario
 
All Star Team Second Place
Captain- Zack Hajjar
Yanni Samaklis
James Dario
Elias Samaklis
 

The Brooklyn Hoteikan would like to Congratulate the eXtreme Team Martial Art League winners of the Fall 2010 league.  All worked very hard and did excellent. It was an exciting league.
 
First Place GRAND Champions
Team Legit Warriors
Captain- Lider Intriago
Zack Hajjar
Gianna Dario
James Dario
 
Second Place Wiinners
Team Deadly Assasins
Captain- Michael Perez
Yanni Samaklis
Andrew Guiterez
Elias Samaklis
Christopher Wiggan
 
Third Place Winners
Team Lightning Ninjas
Captain- Alex Tabick
Hope Tabick
Freddy Guaman
Tim Le
Sarah Tabick
 

The Brooklyn Hoteikan is proud to announce that Nov 1 we have started our Fall XT league. We have three teams with 5 players each team. The matching are exciting and the students love to participate. We have pictures posted on our facebook.
 

We would like to Congratulate Jen Tabick on her Brown belt exam. As well as Sean Larson Sr. on his Green belt exam. Both did very well and kept a good strong Hoteikan spirit during there exam.

     This weekend (Saturday, 11/6) we held a Judo, JuJitsu seminar at my new dojo location.  I invited Sensei Reno (for those of you that don't know, my sensei since I was 11, and still today some 45 years later) to join me to introduce judo to these mostly Kempo and MMA students.  We had a group of 26 show up which is a great turn out for any Judo class.The host of my new school stepped aside after introductions to let us run the class any way we wanted.  I had originally had a plan laid out, but because there were so many new students there we had to make changes.  I kidded around before we started the warm up by asking the class if they wanted me or some 72 year old sensei to give the warm up.  Did not matter anyway as I always turn the warm up over to my sensei when he visits.  Once again, pappasan sensei put everyone to shame.  Just proves that the Hoteikan sensei's and students are so much better conditioned than any other programs out there.
 
         Sensei Emilio "Reno" Claudio was having so much enjoyment that right after the warm up he got right into throwing using my students as uke's.  He did the full 2 hour class of showing a technique and then he and I would go around helping everyone out to properly execute it. The greatest compliment that was mentioned to me that day was that several students said to me that they can tell that I am a student of the sensei, because I teach the same way.  That is the greatest compliment that has ever been told to me in my 45 years of doing these arts.After the seminar I had several advanced and new students approach me about taking lessons.
 
Thank you my Sensei. 
 
Yours in Hoteikan, 
 
Grandmaster Gary Rasanen 8th Dan

Just two weeks ago I fought my first Amateur full contact fight . It was a great experience with plenty of knowledge gained along the way. The match went to decision and my opponent took the victory but I took away lessons that have made me a better fighter and Martial Artist that will last a lifetime. My father Sensei Tom would always say a quote from Chuck Norris at the dojo, he said, "I never lost a fight.. because I always learned something" he was definitely right! Although I was not the victor in that match, I honestly felt great after the fight. I felt confident that I could fight more, eager to do so, and fulfilled with priceless lessons. I'm sure the support of over 30 dojo friends and family members that night was also a great feeling. The player I fought was not new to the game. He was a seasoned fighter, 35 years old with plenty of ring experience under his belt. I was his last amateur fight, he is now professional. Due to the fact that Muay Thai has become very popular, not many people train in kickboxing (very similar - the only difference is no clinch elbows or knees in kickboxing) so it was tough to find a better match up, but I'm not really concerned about a record, so why not go hard or go home! And that I did! Hoteikan style! Ooossaaaa! It was a great experience and I would never take it back.One thing I must say for sure is one of the best ways to gain knowledge in a field is to indulge in that field. Competition is a great way to get in there first hand and learn best. Trying techniques, seeing what works and what doesn't, learning new ideas, testing new ideas etc.. Getting out of your comfort zone is a great way to grow and become better, and competition is one way to do that. It is not necessary but definitely a great tool for those interested, I do encourage it.Kickboxing, point sparring, judo, Extreme Team Martial Art league etc...Hoteikan always has a place for you!
Special thanks to Shihan Cookie Melendez for helping me train, Jason Lind ( Muay Thai trainer who also trains at the school ), Sensei Tom (my father), all my sparring partners who took the bumps and bruises along the way, and everyone who came to support that night !  ooossssaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!! Hoteikan!!
To see photos click here

She did an outstanding job. Here are some pictures of the test. Congratulations Jean!

Click here to view pictures.

In the words of Sensei Anthony Carrano. A nidan from Brooklyn's Hoteikan Dojo.

"
I am
excited to say that September 10th will be my first full contact
kickboxing fight. (that is, in the ring of coarse.) (We wont count)  Not counting the numerous dojo beet (beat)
downs throughout the years =), this will be the first fight in the ring. There
have been two big motivations for this fight. One is to gain the experience in
the ring and to grow as a martial artist, and the second as part of my sandan
exam in hopes to show that i have what it takes to fight individuals other than
friends and family of the Hoteikan system. My journey began with this past judo
competition where i competed at west point (which was a wonderful experience
with the help of Soke Reno, Sensei Gary , Sensei Harris and some of the cadets
who helped support and coach). I now find myself working hard everyday to
prepare for my upcoming fight. For the past 3 months i have been in preparation
mode. Again (we’re not counting) the 18 years of training prior to this event
=). In Hoteikan you realize that we are always in preparation mode because the
street never schedules a fight. As the time gets closer the training gets
harder. I’ve trained this past in the famous Gleasons gym. Just a side note,
there is a picture hanging in the dojo with Sensei Hassman, Soke Santiago Sensei
John and others, an old school shot of them all in the ring, Every time i walk
into Gleasons it reminds me of that picture. Gleasons gym has been untouched
since they first opened it, very old school feel. I train in Gleasons to help
develop some boxing style striking (Which through training you discover they all
really originate from the same thing, just with a different twist. A cross is
still a reverse punch to me). Additionally we have our traditional styles in
which we focus, but Hoteikan has always taught me to take what is good no matter
what style, if it works, well use it. My kicking is shotokan all the way, hooks,
round house, and side kick to the legs body and head. I train about 3 days a
week at Gleasons, and 2 days a week with my father (Sensei Tom), the other days
i practice on my own. Lots of sparring, bag work, heavy bag work (500 lb bag
at Gleasons),shadow boxing, etc... Overall i am excited for the event. Despite
the outcome, i am definitely learning a lot from this experience and growing as
a martial artist. The experience and knowledge is priceless."

Sensei Anthony Carrano traveled to Thailand in May 2010. Here are some pictures of his travels.

Click here to view

Judo is an Art with a confused identity.  It is a very popular SPORT worldwide and has been in the Olympics first in 1964 [as a demonstration event] then in 1972 as a full fledged medal event.  What too many Martial Artists, including Judoka, forget is that the syllabus of Professor Kano & the Kodokan includes far more than the sport face of Judo.
The first issue is that the emphasis on the SPORT of Judo has pushed the full spectrum of Judo off the screen.  The OFFICIAL KATAS of Judo clearly demonstrates the 3 faces of Judo as a MARTIAL ART, not the MARTIAL SPORT which dominates the teaching & practice.  The 3 faces of Judo, and the corresponding KATA are:
 
1. The SPORT phase is the introduction to the ART.  The RANDORI-no-KATA [Forms of Free Practice] consists of the NAGE-no-KATA [Forms of Throwing] and the KATAME-no-KATA [Forms of Grappling].  It is important to note that in the NAGE, there are self defense applications in 4 of the 5 sets.
 
a.    TE-WAZA = Ippon Seionage against a strike to the head
b.    KOSHI-WAZA = Uki Goshi against a slashing strike
c.     ASHI-WAZA = NO SELF DEFENSE
d.    MA-SUTEMI-WAZA = Ura Nage against a slashing strike
e.  YOKO-SUTEMI-WAZA = Yoko-Garuma vs. a slashing strike
 
2. The second phase or level of Judo is the SHINKEN-SHOBU [combat waza] and GOSHIN JUTSU  [defensive techniques] as demonstrated in the KIME-no-KATA [Forms of Decision] and the KODOKAN GOSHIN JUTSU [The Self Defense of KODOKAN].  The KIME consists of traditional WAZA of the Samurai.  The GOSHIN JUTSU, THE NEWEST Kata of Judo deals with more contemporary self defense.  Both Kata show how to protect yourself against unarmed and armed attacks [KIME= sword, dagger, & Bo; GOSHIN JUTSU = dagger, club & gun]
<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /> 

4. The JU-no-KATA I classify as a transitional exercise.  This KATA demonstrates all the elements of JUDO.  There are applications of SPORT, SELF-DEFENSE, and CONTROL OF MOVEMENT.

Normal
0

false
false
false

EN-US
X-NONE
X-NONE

MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}

This years
annual black belt club summer program continues to be a huge success, we conversed
many areas from leadership skills to black belt katas and even some weapons
training. The students continue to demonstrate the high standard set out for
the Black Belt Club. I am excited to share that 4 more students have been
accepted into the club and we hope to have more in the fall season to come.

For the month of June, I would like to congratulate our Dojo warriors that represented the school at the Green Point tournament Sunday, June 13. Spectacular Kata and strong Kumite showed what Hoteikan is all about. The other schools were respectful and competitive. It was a great day. The following students attended; Samantha Quisenberry, Gianna Dario, Elias Samaklis, Yanni Samaklis, Lider Intriago, Andrew Gutierez, Freddy Guaman, Rigel Archangel, Michael Anthony Perez, Hayley Benner, Roberto Sequeria. Our Sensei Anthony Carrano just came back from visiting fellow Sensei Alex in the country of Thailand. He enjoyed the great scenery and beautiful attractions including petting a Tiger. He also did some Muay Thai kickboxing training. We would like to welcome our fairly new BBC (black belt club) members, Ashley Narine and Zack Hajjar. They both have completed their 20 hours and are officially black belt club members. It is a strong class for our more advanced students. They are also great representatives for our school and best candidates for future black belts. We had a promotion exam this past weekend. Our lil Dragon Elias Samaklis has advanced to the Kids class and has passed his Yellow Belt exam. Martin Richards follows him as our new Yellow Belt. Hope Tabick passed her Green belt exam; the halfway mark to black belt. Ashley Narine and Zack Hajjar have also completed there Green Belt exam along with Michael Anthony Perez for his Purple belt and all 3 have our special Black Belt Club belts with the black stripe in the middle. All students will be able to see that they are a good example of the school. Nick Koehler has advanced to Purple belt. Alex Tabick and James Chen have all completed there Brown Belt exams. That was all for June 2010 from the Hoteikan Dojo.

 
To my Hoteikan family! 
It is with great regret & sadness that I must announce I am retiring from the active practice and teaching of the Martial Arts.  I have been reevaluated by my Orthopedist and there is extensive Arthritic damage to my right knee which will require a Total Knee Replacement.  There is also damage to the ligaments and tendons to the type of explosive movement of Judo\Jujitsu would make the replacement far less likely to succeed. The operation is scheduled for Thursday, June 3, at the Westchester Square Medical Center, in the Bronx.
I have been a Judoka/Martial Artist for 48 years and this is as difficult to do as any opponent I have ever faced.  Even after the replacement surgery, I will be unable to resume this beloved activity.  My training gave me the focus and discipline to study Pharmacy and earn my certification as a schoolteacher as well.  Most of the things I have accomplished in my life can be directly tied to the Martial Arts.
[As a footnote, the surgeon doing the operation is a Black Belt in both Tae Kwon Do and Sosuishiru Jujitsu + a Sankyu in Judo.  One of his teachers was the late Senior Sensei Bill Morris!!!!
 I have only had 2 “HOME” dojos since 1962:the American Judo-Karate Academy (AJKA) owned by my 1st Sensei, Grandmaster Tom Purdy and here at the Hoteikan Dojo. At the AJKA I had the opportunity to meet and train with many “legends” in Judo and Jujitsu.  It was here that Sensei Purdy, when I won my Sankyu (3rd Brown in Judo), turned me over to HIS teacher, Professor Sadaki Nakabayashi.  The original dojo at 41 West 33rd Street (in Manhattan) was where HOTEIKAN was partially born, and the people there helped shape me to the man I am today.
What I will miss the most is sharing the knowledge I have gained over almost a half of a century with my students and peers.  I have been very fortunate to have participated in the finest activity I can think of with men & women of this Dojo and organization.  Let me give a few examples.
Within the Hoteikan System, my relationship with our Co-Founder, SOKE RENO, which is the oldest, is my fondest.  We first met in December of 1965 during a joint YMCA vs. YMHA regional SHIAI when Soke was a YMCA coach and I competed for the YMHA team.  Apparently, PAPASAN saw something of worth in me when he gave me the advice that allowed me to win my division against on of the YMCA players.  This established a friendship that pre-dates all others in the RYU and is as strong today as ever!  Though Nakabashi-Sensei will ALWAYS be MY Sensei, it was Soke Reno who taught me the ART of Judo as I practiced and taught it.
<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /> 
In 2001, Sensei Ryan was testing for his SHODAN and I made my first visit to the Dojo and met Sensei Tom Carrano.  He graciously left an open invitation to come in and join the staff.  It did not take long for me to realize he was not just a superb Karateka, he was also a talented Jujitsuan.  In short, one of the finest and most complete Martial Artists I have ever had the pleasure to share a tatami with.  Not only did Sensei Tom invite me in but he extended me a level of respect which is rare in the Martial Arts today.  Early on in my association with the Dojo he was humble enough to accept instructions from a base stranger.  This is the mark of a true proponent of BUSHIDO.
We soon become very, very good at teaching as a “tag-team” so the similarities of our main disciplines could be best expressed for the students.  I vividly recall a lesson we developed when he taught a hook kick and I showed the body motion was the key to completing the O-Uchi-Gari.  Sensei Tom and I spent many hours looking at our respective Kata to find where throws fit in Shotokan Kata and strikes in Judo.  He paid me a personal compliment when during a Jujitsu class, I was teaching the throw O-Soto-Garuma and he said [and I paraphrase] he had been trying to understand this throw for 10 years and I explained it in about 10 words.  I am proud to call him both friend & BROTHER.
 
My 40+ year friendship with Sensei John Reddick is well known in the Hoteikan system.  We grew up together as both Martial Artists and, more importantly, men.  We have seen each other through the best and worst of times.  The standing joke is that I was jealous as he was the favored son by my Dad but I was the best liked in his house!  You read so much about “cross-training” & MMA today as if it were a new concept but John & I taught each other enough about our respective arts so we became more complete Martial Artists (watch him execute an O-Soto-Gari, Ippon Seionage or Tai-Otoshi). 
When Donna and I finally get married, I know that my best friend will stand up as my best man and he and Myra will be my only family there (it’ll be a small wedding).
 
I want to thank my Judo students from my Sunday class for making my last active teaching such a pleasure & an honor.  To Roberto S, Roberto H, David H, Alan M, Samantha Q, Jean C & Sofia C -- the spirit of cooperation & learning you have displayed has made the trek from the Bronx worth it!  When Alex, Daniel, & Roberto S were preparing for the Shodan exam this group shined in helping the candidate though it meant delaying your own training.  When Roberto performed the modified NAGE-NO-KATA at the end his Shodan exam [with the fantastic assistance of Roberto, David & Alan], it was THEIR reaction to completing a truly challenging exercise that made me as proud as I have ever been.  Also, the reaction of the other Sensei & students gave the 5 of us a feeling of tremendous satisfaction.
 
Though I will not be active, I will not be gone.  I expect to attend promotional exams and some other special events.  You are ALL my family in the way Soke Hasman & Soke Reno envisioned when the Ryu was founded 36 years ago.
 
 
 
 
HOTEIKAN FOR LIFE!
 
Sensei Jay Hager
 7th Dan Judo/5th Dan Kito-Ryu JujitsuSenior Judo Advisor – Hoteikan Ryu

Please welcome Roberto Sequeira to the ranks of the Yudansha. On Saturday, March 20,2010, Roberto took his Shodan exam at the Hoteikan Dojo in Brooklyn, N.Y. As usual, it was an all day affair and Roberto did an outstanding job. Congratulations on a job well done! Now the real training begins!! Roberto will receive his official Hoteikan Yudansha certificate along with the other new Shodans at the West Point Seminar in April.

I am excited to share that this years Lean and Fit Program will also have a Brooklyn's Biggest Loser competition. The person who loses the most throughout the 10 week program will receive a 1,000 dollar prize!
So not only will you Transform your life in 10 weeks with our cardio, strength, diet , behavior modification and motivation program, but you will also have the chance to win $1,000 along the way

On a last note do you know who started Jillian Michaels the female instructor from "the Biggest Loser" on her path to lose weight? ... Her karate instructor! OOosu

-Sensei Anthony

--
Hoteikan Dojo
7017 Fort Hamilton Prkwy
Brooklyn N.Y. 11214
718-748-2826

Looking for a way to lose weight without the sweat and hard work? Good luck, keep on looking… However, if you’re ready to do what it takes and get the job done, call the Brooklyn Hoteikan Dojo now...718-748-2826, we're running a 10 week Lean and Fit program!! The kickoff date is January 25th!!
Be there or be square!!

Midway results....

We just passed the Mid-way point in the lean and fit program!
We have a total of 8 students partaking in the event
All students have been seeing great results and are very happy to get in shape
We took a midway assessment and so far the student who has been loosing the most is Jen Tabick.
Student Salem said "after the 10 weeks are complete I can never go back to just two days a week of training like I used to", the other students all agreed.

The program is going well and everyone is excited to see their end results!
The last few weeks will be kicked into high gear!!
Get ready for some great results. Stay tuned!!
OOOSSAAAA
LEAN AND FIT!!!

Dear Friends & Family

As we reflect back on 2009 we see a wonderful year of accomplishments. We started the year with a successful meet for the dojo competitors at the AAU Metropolitan Karate Championship. Once again our Dojo Warriors represented well.

The Leadership/Instructors Course Level 1 was a huge success

In April, at West Point, the senior Hoteikan family came together for an amazing Annual Martial Art Seminar. The lessons were exciting & technically excellent. The demonstrations were off the hook. I enjoyed the showdown between Soke Armstrong and myself … he’s still the man!

Special Thanks to Lieutenant Colonel Morrales and the cadets.

Grandmaster Reno promoted Senior Master Santiago Armstrong to Soke, Headmaster....that's right, Headmaster of the entire Hoteikan System..

Gerald & Daniel were promoted to Shodan (1ST Degree Black Belt). Cody & Benjamin were promoted to Jr, Shodan.

Wasting no time Daniel has combined his Instructor course skills with his Shodan to earn the title, Sensei Dan.

All of the students made promotions, getting closer to Black Belt. You ALL make me proud !

The Hoteikan Kids rocked at the Intra-dojo Championship. We introduced my long-time dream into reality.....

The eXtreme Team Martial Art League, followed by the Spring season with All Star & Final Championship.

Hoteikan Ambassadors brought back some knowledge from the SuperShow in Vegas, from some big names like Chuck Lidell, Master Tody, Matt Huges & many others.

Soke Santiago Armstrong came to Brooklyn for a spectacular Hoteikan Jujitsu seminar. Other great seminars included Master Gary Raz (Judo), GrandMaster Leroy Epperson (Jujitsu/Grappling) , Sensei Luis Ruperto ( Ninjitsu/Weapons )

There was an exhilarating eXtreme Team Martial Art match up between Brooklyn and Maryland.

The annual Hoteikan Family Day at Manhattan beach was a blessing.

In Oct., we went to Arizona for the Annual Black belt Seminar. Soke Armstrong expanded our Jujitsu & improved our Jujitsu Kata. Grandmaster Reno pushed us to our limits & beyond.

eXtreme Team Martial Art Fall Season proved that "intensity can be bought to another level", Zak H. The skills of the competitors were spectacular !

Thank You, to the Parents who help out & volunteer their time

Our Dojo End of The New Year & Holiday Party was a blast.

Thank You to all the parents, students & instructors who put their hearts & souls into the dedication of refining this beautiful art while keeping it practical, real & effective !

Love to All

Sensei Tom

As we look forward to 2010 we see another year waiting to be filled with great times and awesome events. We will keep you posted.

Sensei Alex Olshansky moved to Thailand earlier this year for a change in scenery. Here is what transpired and how the Hoteikan System got it's foot into Asia!
I moved to Thailand in mid February 2009 and one of my priorities had been to find a Jujutsu or a Judo school where I could work out. As luck would have it, there were no Judo or Jujutsu schools in Pattaya, Thailand.  I couldn’t live without having a place to practice, so I decided that if I couldn’t join an existing place, I would start my own program. 
I started looking for a place to rent, when I came across a karate school.  I offered to start a jujutsu program with them, but they refused, citing various organizational reasons.  However, they did offer me the use of their facilities.  I jumped at the chance.  They have a room with gymnastics mats, which are adequate for my needs. 
I asked around if anyone was interested in joining a jujutsu program and a few people expressed interest.  The core group was formed and that’s how Hoteikan Thailand was born.  Hoteikan Thailand has 5 members.  Some of them are people in their 20’s some in their 30’s and more than half in their 50’s.
 
Most of my students have never worked out, much less had any martial arts training.  Yet, already they are beginning to get a glimpse of what they can do.  The limits are being pushed, the boundaries expanded.  Back falls, rollouts and side falls are beginning to take shape.  They are beginning to develop body control and things that just a month ago seemed impossible are all of a sudden possible and are becoming routine.
 
They are learning the basics of self defense, using the entire body to affect the technique, rather than trying to muscle one’s way through.  They are discovering that one is never too young, too old, too frail or too timid for the martial arts.  All that’s required are time, effort and dedication. 
 
We have a good group.  I think we can make the US  Hoteikan proud.
written by: Sensei Alex
We are all proud of your efforts to spread the System name! Best of luck!
 
Soke Saint Armstrong

This year the Hoteikan System celebrates 35 years as a Martial Arts System. The System was started back in 1974 by Soke Emilio Claudio Jr. and Soke Robert Hasman. The first official students of the new System were Henry Felix, Casimiro Zayas and Santiago Armstrong. The name Hoteikan comes from Soke Claudio's old Jujitsu Dojo in N.J. run by Sensei Nelson Fleming. The original Hoteikan patch with the tiger was created by Soke Claudio and Soke Hasman while still training at the old American Karate Academy on 33rd street in N.Y.C. After 33rd street the Dojo moved to 46th street in Brooklyn. It was there that Shihan Tommy Carrano began his training. From the 46th street Dojo we moved to Fort Hamilton Pkwy in Bay Ridge Brooklyn. The Brooklyn Dojo remains on Ft. Hamilton Pkwy, only a few blocks away from the original location, Shihan Carrano now owns the Dojo. Soke Claudio moved to upstate N.Y. in the early 80's and began coaching the West Point Judo team. He continues to mentor and coach cadets to this day. In 1993 Soke Saint Armstrong was promoted to Kudan (9th Dan) and made President of the Hoteikan System. In 1994 Sensei Armstrong moved to Arizona and started the Hoteikan Desert Warriors. Soke Armstrong was promoted to Judan (10th) in May of 2009 and made Headmaster of the System by Soke Claudio.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Many students have passed through the Dojo doors of the Hoteikan System in the past 35 years. We all want to thank the founders for their guidance throughout the years and may we celebrate many more wonderful years together as a System and family!

Hello dojo!
Here are some fun and exciting events coming
up in the school that you won't wanna miss!!
1.This friday is FUN NIGHT. We will be
watching the the NEW EXTREME TEAM MARTIAL ART VIDEO that was made professionally
with you (the students) as the stars!! After we watch the video, we will play
the brand new UFC video game for Xbox (since we"ll all be amped from the video).
Pizza will also be included in this event!
2. Sunday June 21, 2009

11AM-12NOON
Dads, learn to coach with the target
shield!
Come and share the martial arts experience with each other, adult
and child.
(Dads, moms, aunts, uncles, and others welcome!)

At the end of class, get your own
TARGET SHIELD
to take home and practice together with
 Sign up and $25 due ASAP.
Limited space available; first come first served
 
3. This is the perfect time of
year to say “thank you” to your dad
for all the great things he does for you!
For the entire week following fathers day,
June 22nd- June 29th, all dojo dads will receive complimentary classes at
the Hoteikan Dojo 
Dads, come and try a karate,
jujitsu, and/or a kardio kickboxing class!
We will love to see you
there!
 
I'll see everyone at these
events!!!
-Sensei Anthony!

Congratulations are in order for Daniel Notwicz and Gerald Jarvis. After many years of training and perseverance they have succeeded in earning their Shodan rank in the Hoteikan System. Daniel & Gerald both took their exams on Saturday, May 23rd, at the Hoteikan Dojo in Brooklyn. Kyoshi Thomas Carrano & Kyoshi Jay Hager were there to administer the exam. As usual, the Shodan exam was a grueling test of technique knowledge and heart by both participants.On behalf of all the Yudansha in the Hoteikan System, we want to welcome you both to the Hoteikan Yudansha Family!                                                                                                                      On a separate note but just as important, were the promotions to Junior Black Belt (Shodan Kai) of Cody Alves and Benjamin Balidema. These 2 young individuals have demonstrated the determination and drive it takes to succeed in the Art. More important they have proven to be good role models for the youth in our System. We encourage them to continue on the path of knowledge and self discipline within the Hoteikan System. Congratulations from the entire System!                                                                                                        Soke Santiago Armstrong

Greetings everyone! Just a reminder that in 3 days our biggest event takes place. The 6th Annual West Point Seminar! If you haven't made arrangements yet, please do so by calling the Hoteikan Dojo in Brooklyn, N.Y. for details. 1-718-748-2826You don't want to miss this one!!!  Regards, Dai Shihan Saint Armstrong

The Desert Warriors held thier 1st inaugural Self Defense tournament on Saturday, January 17, 2012. Nearly every student competed in the event!
 
Here are the results:
Beginner Division:
1st place - Karsten Householder
2nd place - Kiana Wong
3rd place tie -
Hayden Shelly & Tristen Gonder
 
Advanced Division:
1st place - Victoria Marcus
2nd place - Ken Wong
3rd place - Marcel Tutt
 
The techniques were of high caliber and very well done!
All competitors received participation medals.
 
Checkout Facebook under "Friends of the Hoteikan family" for pictures!
 
Great job everyone!!
 

Photos from the 8th Annual Hoteikan Desert Warrior Workshop Photo Gallery have been added to the website.  Please click on the event name to see photos or go to the photo gallery under Desert Warrior.  

Greetings all,
The Desert Warriors had their annual workshop weekend on October 14th and 15th. In addition, we held a Shodan exam in San Do Ichi Ryu Jujutsu with Carlos Trujillo as the candidate.
 
On Thursday night, Oct. 13th, the 1st part of the exam was administered. This was the Judo portion. The Board consisted of: Soke Emilio Claudio, Soke Santiago Armstrong, Shihan Paul Farley, Sensei Steve Hust and Sensei Ken Wong. Carlos demonstrated good technique and excellent ground work as well.
On Friday evening, the 2nd part of the exam was administered. This was the Shotokan Karate and San Do Ichi Ryu Jujutsu portion. Shihan Shakir Gushgari came in and assisted on the board for this section. Again Carlos exhibited good Karate technique and his Jujutsu kata was excellent. He definitely earned his Shodan with a show of discipline, technique, endurance and Hoteikan spirit!
The highlight of the exam was the 5 on 1 sparring at the end!
We welcome Carlos Trujillo to the Yudansha ranks of the Hoteikan System!
 
On Saturday morning we did our high octane training session starting with a run outside and then the agility course. Desert Warrior Tristen Gonder was the champion of the course displaying the quickest time!
This was followed by a sparring and grappling session. It was great training enjoyed by all.
After a small break we conducted the afternoon workshop. It started with demonstrations by both Sensei Victoria Marcus and Sensei Elizabeth Schmidt. Their Shotokan Kata and Jujutsu self defense was outstanding!
Soke Armstrong got the workshop started with a training session on the effectiveness of the thrusting and snapping front kick. Then the group was treated to a demonstration and training session by Shodai Soke Emilio Claudio. Soke showed competitive chokes and throw combinations that were truly amazing!
The group couldn't get enough of the perfection of technique displayed by Soke!
 
Finally, that evening our celebration BBQ was hosted by Soke Armstrong and everyone had a wonderful time enjoying each others company!
 
I would like to extend our thanks to the following dojos for sending representatives to the event: USMA Judo Team, West Point, N.Y., Hoteikan Dojo, Brooklyn, N.Y., Kumakan Ryu Dojo, N.Y., New Bushido Dojo, S.D., Horizons Martial Arts Dojo, Phoenix, AZ, Hoteikan International, Bulgaria, and the host dojo, Hoteikan Desert Warriors.
 
Thank you all for making this a great event and we'll see you all at the West Point seminar in April 2012!
 
Yours in Hoteikan,
 
Soke Saint Armstrong
 

Horizons Martial Arts participated in the USKA Arizona State Championship tournament in February 2011 and National qualifier tournament in March 2011. Horizon's participants spanned ages 5 to 55.  It was a great tournament where Horizons walked away with the following: - State Championship of age   5 category in Kumite - State Championship of age 10 category in Kumite, Boys division - 2nd place in Kata for age 12 (women) - 2nd place in Kata for men adult and senior division (Kyu Rank) - 3rd  place in Kata for men adult division (Kyu Rank)
Two of our students are going to the Nationals (New Mexico) in April 2011 to compete in Kumite.
Great Job and good luck at Nationals!

New Content added to "The System" section of website.  You can now view the Origins of the Hoteikan Patches.

This link will take you to directly to the article CLICK HERE

On January 22, 2011, at the Arizona State Karate Championships, Ms. Victoria Marcus from the Desert Warriors won both the Kata and Sparring division for her age group. She is awarded the Arizona State Championship for 17 year old female Black Belts.
 
Congratulations Victoria!

In the Hoteikan System, whether we train in Karate, Judo or Jujutsu we begin with a bow and end with a bow. Why so much attention to bowing? We bow to the dojo before we enter. We bow towards the shomen(front) before class begins. we bow to the sensei. We bow to our sempai, to our kohai, to our dohai. (senior, junior, equal). All this bowing. To what end? For what purpose? Why this emphasis on bowing?
Bowing is a symbolic act. Its meaning varies with the moment and the circumstance. Ultimately, bowing is an act of self expression. The meaning is defined by the person who is doing the bowing. The act itself is meaningless. Intent is everything. I always bow before I step onto the floor. I do this not because I am trying to get a closer look to see if the students properly cleaned the dojo floor. I do this because I know that this floor is going to be my training ground. It will be my teacher and taskmaster for the next few hours. I will struggle, sweat, fight, train and at times spill blood on this floor for the next few hours. This floor will be the vehicle by which I will confront my shortcomings. It is because of this dojo that I am able to follow my path. I sweat on this, I strain on this, and I suffer on this. It is a means of self examination and confrontation. Because of this floor I grow. And that is why I bow to the dojo.
I also bow to my sempai, my kohai and my dohai. They, like the floor, are a key to my self evaluation and growth. Without them I cannot test my limits, push beyond my boundries. I bow to my sempai (senior) because I assume he has my best interest at heart and will challenge me to better myself. I bow to my kohai (junior) because I acknowledge his gratitude because he feels that I am there to help him break past his barrier. I bow to express the honor and privilege I feel for this trust he has bestowed upon me. I bow to my dohai (equal) because together in our sweat and tears we share our achievements and failures. I bow to my sensei in an act of pure supplication because I trust he will teach and guide me in the art. If I cannot trust him then I should not bow to him for in the act of bowing I am surrendering all control to him.
I bow to my opponent before a match because I hope he will push me to my limits. If I get hit in the face, thrown on the floor or kicked in the stomach, it is because I failed to block. It is my fault and he is there to remind me that my defense was weak and in this way I become a better fighter.
Sometimes we bow to ourselves. We bow to ourselves to acknowledge that we have done all that we can do. It is a form of self conversation. You acknowledge what you have done in a dispassionate manner. You bow to yourself because you realize that what you have accomplished is a result of all the people that have come before you and the lessons they instilled have somehow managed to become part of your being. By bowing to yourself you bow to them. It is a physical expression of the realization that "thou are that", that you are connected; you are a part of the greater whole.
We are all connected. This is the Hoteikan System. This is Budo!
 
Article by Sensei Saint Armstrong
 
 

To all our members,
Let us be thankful for all our blessings this Thanksgiving weekend!
On behalf of the entire Hoteikan Family, have a very Happy Thanksgiving!!
Soke Saint Armstrong

The Hoteikan System Seminar in Arizona this October was a great success! Soke Reno Claudio arrived on Wednesday night and attended the Desert Warrior class on Thursday night, October 14th. He proceeded to show the students elements of Sosuishi Ryu Jujutsu that he learned many years ago. That same evening the cadets and Colonel Hector Morales arrived at the Dojo from West Point in full uniform. They were a wonderful sight to behold! Friday evening, Soke Armstrong and Shihan Morales conducted ground techniques and Judo basics along with grip control.
Saturday morning Shihan Carrano led the group in an outdoor sunrise workout in the desert. He then concluded the workout back at the dojo with a demonstration of Tai-sabaki from the Hoteikan Dojo. Before bowing out Soke Armstrong presented Shodai Soke Reno Claudio with a pictorial history of the Hoteikan System on behalf of all the members. He was truly touched by the show of love and respect we have for him.
Our main event was held at the SMAC dojo and led by Soke Armstrong. He tied all the sessions together with effective self defense techniques utilizing Tai sabaki movements. The workshop concluded with a dinner at Soke Armstrongs house!
We want to thank everyone for attending this great event and we hope to see everyone at our next seminar!

On June 26th, Desert Warrior Black Belt Victoria Marcus won the USA World Karate Championship in Sparring for her age group! Miss V went to the event with 3 goals. First, to gain more experience in a large international event. Second, to do well in Kata and third to place in sparring. Mission accomplished! Sensei Armstrong went along to coach Miss V and keep her focused. She did well in the Kata competition placing 5th in a division loaded with excellent talent. She got sweet revenge in her very first sparring match by defeating the girl that took 1st place in kata. Miss V then went on to dominate the division and take 1st place!  She is now more determined than ever to repeat as sparring champion and also win at Kata.
Congratulations to you Miss V for a job well done.

A big congratulations to Ms. Victoria who took her Shodan exam on saturday, April 10, 2010. Ms. Victoria has been working with Sensei Armstrong on and off since she was 8 years old. Most recently she joined the Desert Warriors full time and has been working towards her Shodan in Shotokan Karate. The test went well and she now joins the ranks of the Yudansha of the Hoteikan System. Congratulations again for a job well done!!

Greetings to all,

During this holiday season it is with great pleasure that we the “Hoteikan Family” look back at some of our accomplishments as the year comes to an end. First of all, this year marked the 35th anniversary of the Hoteikan System and what a year it has been! Through the many social networks now available we have been able to reconnect with many past members and all have wished us the best and continued success in our endeavors.

Several accomplishments this year are worth a mention:
• New Black Belts joined the Yudansha ranks at the Hoteikan Dojo in Brooklyn, N.Y.
• Sensei Alex Olshansky is teaching the System in Thailand
• Shihan Paul Farley is in Afganistan and teaching Hoteikan concepts
• Shihan Paul brought Brad Walker and the New Bushido group from S.D. to the System
• Our annual West Point Seminar was a smashing success!
• The West Point Judo Team is having a stellar tournament season this year!
• The Desert Warriors of Arizona hosted our 1st System wide Instructors Workshop
• Our Jujutsu System was renamed “San Do Ichi Ryu”, complete with a written “Master Text”, of all techniques and Kata.
• Last but not least, Shodai Soke Emilio Claudio named Soke Santiago “Saint” Armstrong, Headmaster of the Hoteikan System

All of this would not be possible without the efforts and dedication of all the members and students in our System. So to all that call “Hoteikan” family, we wish you a wonderful Holiday season, a very Merry Christmas and a joyous Happy New Year!!

Thanksgiving day is a time to reflect on all the blessings throughout the year and to be thankful for what we have.

Here is a special heart felt Happy Thanksgiving from the Hoteikan Family to you and your family!

Enjoy your day!

It is with great pleasure that we welcome back Sensei Bill Rader to the Desert Warriors class! After a hip replacement and some needed personal time away from the Dojo, Sensei Bill has returned and is helping the students with their Judo techniques. Sensei Bill has been associated with the Desert Warriors and Soke Armstrong for over 14 years.

Welcome back Sensei Bill!!!

The pictures to the Instructors workshop are now on the site for viewing. Go to Media Gallery - events - Instructor workshop.
Enjoy!

The Desert Warriors of the Hoteikan System hosted it's 1st annual Instructors workshop for the San Do Ichi Ryu Jujutsu on October 9th & 10th, 2009. Hoteikan Black Belts from around the country participated in this wonderful and educational event. We had members from Texas, Bklyn. N.Y., West Point N.Y., & Arizona in attendance.

The weekend actually started on Thursday evening, with the testing and promotion of Steven Hust to the rank of Yodan. On Friday, another promotion was handed out. This time Shihan Paul Farley was elevated to the rank of Rokudan. Sensei Paul has been instrumental in bringing the members of the New Bushido Dojo in S.D. into the Hoteikan System as well as teaching our system in Iraq and soon Afghanistan. Sensei Paul is currently teaching in El Paso, Texas.

The Friday workout continued with training on standup techniques and variations. Saturday morning began with an intense cardio bag workout and concluded with Kata. The afternoon workout dealt with groundwork and a sharing of different concepts of the same techniques.

This was a great learning experience for all and I'm sure all the members are excited about the next Hoteikan event. Thank you all for participating!!!

Our Jujutsu workshop this month was a big success. The theme was grappling techniques and control of your opponent. Besides our usual group, we had the pleasure of having several of the Wado Ryu Karate students from SMAC in attendance.Sensei Paul Farley from Texas paid us a visit and assisted in the workshop. I want to personally thank all the participants for coming and I trust you all had a great time rolling around on the mat!                                                                                                                                                          The next workshop is scheduled for September 2009, stay tuned for the actual date!                                                                                   Soke "Saint" Armstrong

After 35 years of categorizing techniques and training with Soke and other members of the Hoteikan System and the Martial Arts community, we have finally given our Jujutsu it's own identity. On the 4th of July, 2009 with Shodai Soke Claudio's approval, the name given to the jujutsu system is: San Do Ichi Ryu Jujutsu. This literally means, 3 ways/1 system. It truly exemplifies what our jujutsu is all about. Join me in spreading the word! A master text will be out soon for this Jujutsu ryu. The complete San Do Ichi Ryu Jujutsu is currently taught in Arizona by Soke Armstrong.

The Desert Warriors of Arizona will begin open sparring class on Saturday's. This is a cardio class with running, bag work and then open Jujitsu sparring. Members need to bring mouthpiece, and gloves to class. This class starts from 7:30am to 9am at the Scottsdale Martial Arts Center..

As you can see our website is up with a new look!

 I hope you find it easier to navigate and get the information you need. A lot has happened since we went dorment back in December 2008.

1. Sensei's Becky and Tommy Carrano are the proud parents of their new addition Matthew Carrano.
2. Natalia and Glenn Roth were blessed with the addition of baby Sarah.
3. Alex Olshansky, from the Hoteikan Dojo, has moved to and is living in Taiwan. Continued Good Luck to you, Alex.
4. We have a new addition to the Hoteikan Family. Please welcome the "New Bushido" dojo from South Dakota. Sensei Paul Farley has been working with Sensei Brad Walker and his students. The New Bushido group expects to be present at the 6th Annual N.Y. Seminar.

On to some of the new and exciting things going on this year. As you have seen, our website has been updated. We plan on adding training clips and tips to help further your Martial Arts journey. In addition, you should see news articles on what's happening around the world of Hoteikan.

We are on Facebook under the group "Friends of the Hoteikan System".

Finally, thanks for your patience and enjoy the site!

Yours in Hoteikan,

Dai Shihan Saint Armstrong

On April 6th, 2009.  The website hoteikan.com was relaunched, by OnePixelmore.com.

Site features include:

1. User Registration
2. Image Galleries of Events.
3. Event Calander
4. Information on the Hoteikan Community 
5. Contact information for various dojo's.

Feel free to explore the site.

Please note: More content will be add frequently over the next few days.