Kyoshi Jason Fitzpatrick
Club Visit - 2nd and 9th July 2018
In July 2018, Seishin Ju-Jitsu had the pleasure of welcoming an old friend and training partner of Sensei John Michell: Kyoshi Jason Fitzpatrick, a highly experienced 7th Dan Ju-Jitsu instructor associated with Goshin Ju-Jitsu Association GB.
Across two Monday evening sessions, Kyoshi Jason brought along several friends and students, including Sensei Kevin Zouvani and Sensei Matt Gazeley. Together, they created a relaxed, friendly and highly enjoyable interclub training atmosphere, giving everyone on the mat the chance to explore different ideas, techniques and approaches to self-defence.
The sessions were a little different from our usual syllabus training. Students had the opportunity to look at gun disarmament drills, defensive movement, control positions and practical responses under instruction. These were taught carefully and responsibly, with the emphasis on awareness, timing, body positioning and control rather than force.
As well as the weapon-awareness work, there was plenty of time to explore grappling techniques, holds, escapes and groundwork. This gave students a chance to feel how another instructor approaches familiar principles such as balance breaking, pressure, leverage and movement. For many, it was a valuable opportunity to compare different methods while still seeing the shared foundations that run through traditional Ju-Jitsu.
One of the great benefits of interclub training is that it brings people together. Martial arts clubs may have different badges, uniforms or teaching styles, but the spirit of mutual respect remains the same. When instructors and students are willing to share knowledge openly, everyone benefits.
For Seishin Ju-Jitsu students, training with Kyoshi Jason Fitzpatrick and his group was both useful and enjoyable. The evenings were varied, practical and good-humoured, with plenty of learning and laughter along the way.
It is always a pleasure to get together with old friends on the mat, and we are very grateful to Kyoshi Jason Fitzpatrick, Sensei Kevin Zouvani, Sensei Matt Gazeley and all the students who came along to train with us.