CODE OF CONDUCT (Youth)

1. Respect

• Always bow when entering or leaving the dojo.

• Listen carefully to instructors and follow directions.

• Be kind to your teammates; no teasing, yelling, or rough behavior.

• Treat everyone’s equipment and personal space with care.

2. Effort

• Try your best in every practice; you’re doing great!

• Arrive on time with a clean uniform, a ready spirit, and good attitude.

• Let’s practice good posture, focus and kiai (spirit shout).

• Remember: Making mistakes is part of learning. It’s okay to be frustrated, let’s not give up!

3. Safety

• Always use your shinai and bogu properly.

• Never hit, swing, or run with equipment when not instructed.

• If you or someone else gets hurt, tell an instructor right away.

4. Teamwork

• Help set up and clean up before and after practice.

• Encourage others; cheer for your friends and say “thank you” after matches.

• Older students, set a good example for younger ones.

• We win and lose with respect and gratitude.

5. Behavior In & Outside The Dojo

• Speak politely to instructors, parents, and fellow students.

• No running, shouting, or horseplay before or after class.

• At events, tournaments, and online; represent Brooklyn Kenyukai with pride and respect.

• Remember that being part of the dojo means being part of a Kendo family.

6. Parents and Guardians

• Please ensure your child arrives on time, with proper equipment and uniform.

• Encourage good manners and respectful behavior inside and outside the dojo.

• Notify instructors of absences, injuries, or any concerns.

*Please arrive early and be fully prepared so that we may begin on schedule.
The dojo will be open 15 minutes before class for you to change and get ready.
Please take the initiative to help keep the dojo clean.

CODE OF CONDUCT (Adults)

1. Respect and Courtesy

• Treat all members, instructors, and guests with respect at all times, inside and outside of practice.

• Follow proper reigi (etiquette) before, during, and after practice, including bowing, listening attentively, and showing gratitude.

• Address instructors and senior members with courtesy and humility; juniors should learn by example, seniors should guide with fairness and care.

2. Dojo Etiquette

• Arrive on time and help prepare the dojo space before practice.

• Keep equipment (shinai, bogu, uniforms) in good condition and properly stored.

• All members must treat others with dignity, kindness, and professional courtesy.

3. Safety and Responsibility

• Always practice with control and awareness; avoid unnecessary contact or aggression.

• Report injuries or unsafe conditions immediately to an instructor.

• Intent to hurt, bully and harass others will not be accepted.

4. Integrity and Discipline

• Approach practice with sincerity and commitment to improvement, regardless of rank or ability.

• Accept or provide feedback with humility and offer encouragement to others.

• Inappropriate behavior, bullying, harassment, or discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.
  

5. Inclusivity and Community

• Embrace diversity and support each member’s growth.

• Encourage a welcoming atmosphere for all members and guests.

• Uphold the reputation of the dojo in public and communities with dignity and respect.
  

6. Leadership and Mentorship

• Instructors and senior members are always expected to model good character, fairness, humility and respect for all.

• Leadership is a responsibility to serve others and is not a privilege of authority.

• Leaders and senior members must contribute to the collective spirit of kenshi (swordsmen).
  

7. Conduct Outside the Dojo

• Members represent Brooklyn Kenyukai wherever they practice, compete, or gather.

• Maintain the same respect and discipline at seminars, tournaments, and social events.

8. Accountability

• Violations of this Code may result in verbal warnings, suspension, or termination of membership, depending on severity.

• The Dojo Team reserves the right to review any incident to ensure fairness and uphold dojo integrity.