YOUTH CODE OF CONDUCT

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 help prepare the dojo space before practice; assist with cleanup (before & after practice).

• 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 (All Members)

1. Respect and Courtesy

• Treat all members, instructors, guests, and visitors 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 patience and care.

2. Dojo Etiquette

• Arrive on time and help prepare the dojo space before practice; assist with cleanup afterward.

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

• Refrain from disruptive talking, phone use, or behavior that detracts from the focus of training.

3. Safety and Responsibility

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

• Report injuries or unsafe conditions immediately to an instructor.

• Members must wear appropriate attire and protective gear when instructed.

4. Integrity and Discipline

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

• Accept feedback with humility and offer encouragement to others.

• 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 beginners, visitors, and children.

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

6. Leadership and Mentorship

• Instructors and senior members are expected to model good character, fairness, and humility.

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

• Members are encouraged to 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.