Tag: martial-arts
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One Step Closer #8: Walking the long road.
As a human being with empathy, it is impossible not to feel deeply saddened by the unapologetic ignorance and cruelty taking place in the world right now. The stripping away of people’s basic human rights, safety, and life is happening all around us. It is no coincidence that occurring simultaneously is increased violence against women…
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One Step Closer #7: “Failing” Forward with Gratitude.
I had felt all fired up writing up my journey to my 7 dan exam. For a while, I was writing with enthusiasm about all the things I was learning―not just about kendo, but about myself. I did not expect anyone else to read my blog―but several did and sent beautiful messages and expressed kind…
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#4 One Step Closer: Connecting with Ki.
One of the things I cherish about kendo is how holistically well I can feel during and after kendo. On most days, especially when I have had a hard day, I struggle to feel excited about going to training. I have the discipline to go, like I am on autopilot. Also, I know what it…
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#3 One Step Closer: Being Comfortable in Open Space.
Kendo practitioners in leadership positions can neglect their own kendo development due to their responsibilities inside and outside of kendo. I stopped competing and attending seminars for myself once I started national team coaching and organising the Oceania Women’s Seminar and Taikai. Although I was developing other skill-sets and enjoying the enriching experiences and relationships…
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‘The First All Japan Women’s Kendo 7 Dan Tournament’ with Dance Yokoo (Germany).
Foreword by Kate Sylvester. The first All Japan Women’s Kendo 7 dan Tournament took place at the Kose Sports Park in Yamanashi prefecture on December 15 in 2024. It was the very first time that a women’s 7 dan competition had been held in Japan. Thirty of the best 7 dan women from around Japan…
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‘Women’s Participation at the 19th World Kendo Championships (Part 2): Women’s Collective Voices.’
By Kate Sylvester. This text is part 2 of a 2-part article that focuses on women’s participation at the 19th World Kendo Championships (WKC). Part 1 shared highlights from the women’s competitions at the tournament. Part 2 delves into women’s perspectives on the 19th WKC which highlight the positive developments in WKC kendo, as well…
Kate Sylvester Perspectives 