Japan Karate Association Emerald

In early 2006, Japan Karate Association (JKA) Emerald's head instructor (Sensei) suddenly became ill and unfortunately, subsequently passed away. As the Club did not have a suitably qualified instructor to take the Sensei's place, the Club was at risk of having to fold.

To ensure the Club's survival, JKA Australia granted permission for the Club to continue provided one of its assistant instructors attained Level 1 Instructor Accreditation. The most qualified of the Club's three assistant instructors was Glenn Johansen, a Shodan (1st Dan). In order to meet the necessary qualifications to be Sensei, Glenn needed to hold the rank of Nidan (2nd Dan) which requires acting as an assistant instructor and registered Dojo for two years, to train continuously for three years as a Shodan, attend regional training sessions held by the Chief Instructor and attend at least two national or state seminars.

The Club successfully applied for $5,000 in funding under the Club Development Program (CDP) 2006 to enable Glenn to undertake the required education and training to attain his Nidan ranking.

During the ensuing months, CDP funding enabled Glenn to participate in local training conducted by visiting instructors and travel to various training seminars conducted by key Australian and international instructors. Unfortunately, Glenn's training opportunities were hampered when the closest suitable club, Mackay, disaffiliated from the Queensland body, necessitating increased travel to appropriate training sessions.

Glenn faced a further difficulty when the Queensland Titles were postponed until July 2007, outside the project period for expenditure of the funding. Glenn was then advised the National Titles were changed to an Australasian event to be held in Taupo, New Zealand in March 2007. Glenn was required to attend one of these events to achieve accreditation.

Glenn attended the Australasian Titles where he participated in a three day training seminar which enabled him to gain invaluable experience working with two masters and the current world kata champion. Glenn also achieved his Nidan during a black and brown belt training seminar in Childers.

Glenn's successful completion of the CDP project has resulted in continuation of the JKA Emerald Club, despite the loss of its former long-term Sensei. In addition, student gradings can now be conducted locally and some members have been motivated by Glenn's example to attend their first Queensland and national titles.