By George Kirby
Santa Clarita Contributor
Three outstanding assistant instructors of the Budoshin Ju-Jitsu Dojo [school], Santa Clarita, recently received black belt promotions in their Ju-Jitsu class at the North Oaks Park Community Room, located in Canyon Country.
Michael Langewisch and Byron Davis, who started in the program in 2001 and 2004 respectively, were promoted to Yodan [4th degree black belt]. Glenda Perl, who also started instruction in 2001, was promoted to Nidan, [1st degree black belt]. All three promotions were certified by the American Ju-Jitsu Association [AJA], a national governing body for jujitsu in the United States. Perl was also awarded her official Instructor Certification from the AJA.
In addition, Sensei [teacher] Marc Tucker, the Tuesday night instructor, was awarded an honorary title of “Kyoshi”. Kyoshi means a master teacher. The “Kyoshi” title may be awarded to an exceptional shichidan [7th degree black belt] or higher grade black belt. Marc is the first black belt in the Budoshin system to be awarded this title.
The other three black belts serve as assistant instructors in the Budoshin Ju-Jitsu classes conducted through the Santa Clarita Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department, headed by George Kirby, Judan [10th degree black belt] and Marc Tucker [7th degree black belt]. In addition, Byron assists in the Tuesday night class, taught by Marc Tucker. The Budoshin Ju-Jitsu program has been conducted through the local parks department since 1996. Classes meet on Tuesday and/or Thursday evenings from 7-9 p.m. and are open to anyone ages 10 through adult.
Enrollment is currently under way for the fall session beginning on August 22.
For more information about these classes or to register online go to www.santa-clarita.com/seasons . You may also register in person at the Santa Clarita Sports Complex The Centre, 20880 Centre Pointe Parkway, up through the second week of class.