Waikato Kendo Club

Photo taken on 2008-11-20 WKC Beginners Grading Date: Fri, Dec 19, 2008 RE: Humility Yes indeed, Mark, my new friend. I too arrived home and opened what was for me one of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received...My wife was so delighted to read the words that others had generously shared with and about me. I imagined the thrill that my team mates were experiencing as they too opened their precious packets of friendship. Thank you one and all in the Waikato Kendo club - best club in NZ without doubt! It is an honour to belong. It was also really cool to see all the young people put on their Hakama for the first time. Adam and I squirmed with frustration as we missed out on learning the new moves amongst our comrades. But we also enjoyed getting to know each other better and discussing the details of what we were seeing in the training. In kendo we learn from each other wit hour minds as well as our bodies in training. Sensei Marleen's wisdom was shared regardin

Photo taken on 2008-11-20 WKC Beginners Grading Date: Thu, Dec 18, 2008 New Subject - Humility. I came home this evening from our last 2008 beginners practice (which seemed to go so quickly!!) and I opened my gift from Sensei Marlene. Upon reading the comments held within from my fellow Kendoka and Sensei Marlene, I can truly say that this was the most humbling gift I have ever received. Much like yourself, 4 months ago, I turned up to a "Hall" at the University of Waikato with a group of nervous strangers, wishing to find out more about something called "Kendo". Since then, no matter what has been transpiring in our personal lives, we have all continued to meet every Thursday evening in that "hall" for an hour and a half, being taught things which I would not have even imagined doing, let alone achieving in my every day life. Today, that "Hall" is our Dojo - It is our kendo home were we now all come together as one, to learn and practice the ma

This morning along with Sensei Marlene and Sempai’s Robin, Leo, Clem & Joyce, I had the privilege of attending and enjoying the Sport Waikato Volunteers Breakfast which was hosted by the venerable Dave Curry who is the New Zealand Olympic Team Chef de Mission. What’s a Chef de Mission I hear you ask? (No, he’s not the team cook….) Basically, when you bring over 200 elite athletes together you need leadership from someone they trust and respect. Dave Curry has earned that position. Each time the New Zealand team competes Dave and his team ensures that every athlete is in the best environment to achieve their personal best. One of the core messages Dave Curry imparted upon us, was just how important team work is. Everybody’s contribution of 150% towards their common goal, plays a huge part in not only attaining your team’s goals but surpassing your personal goals. It does not matter how big a part or how small a part you play, as long as you DO play a part and you give your 150%. Tha