The Sensei Each Dojo is presided over by a Sensei, (sen-say) meaning "teacher". The martial arts Sensei has not sought out the student, nor does he prevent him from leaving. If the student wants guidence in climbing the steep path to expertise, the instructor is willing to act as a guide - on the condition that the student be prepared to take care of himself along the way. The instructors function is to delegate to the student exactly those tasks which he is capable of mastering, and then to leave him as much as possible to himself and his abilities. The instructor first teaches technique without explaining its significance; he simply waits for the student to discover this for himself. If the student has the necessary dedication, and the teacher provides the proper inspiration, then the meaning and essence of the martial arts will finally be clear. The relationship of a Sensei to the Dojo is very difficult to define, as it encompasses many varying aspects of life. A Sensei should be a good teacher by conveying at the correct time the appropriate knowledge in the best possible way and manner to the student and must be able to see the students and their problems as they never can, impartially. A Sensei shows no favour, indeed as progression is attained, he becomes harder on those in progress. He is kind but firm to the beginner on the path. The Sensei sees a student in a free way, unmoved by external face or appearance and he helps in the best way befitfing a student. If this is to be hard, he is, to be soft, then he is so. But always it is in the best interest of the student for the Sensei's heart is always with them. He will note what affects the student in and out of the Dojo, how they act toward friends, family and work and will act upon his students accordingly. The Sensei may be tyrannous or compassionate, but through all these externals, his heart is still for them. He listens when they speak but can see the inner reasons for their speech, he is unmoved but can move. He gives while others take and asks no rewards save proficiency of mind and body. Though outsiders may change, the Sensei does not. He persists when there is no apparent reason. That is why he is a Sensei. On average, it takes ten thousand students to produce one worthwhile Sensei. If you have one, take care of him. By Bob Dagleish (edited)

BIOGRAPHY Sensei Jim Doan Jim first began teaching Karate In 1981 for the East Kootenay Community College and self defense at Selkirk High School In Kimberley, BC. Moving to Lethbridge, AB in 1983, Jim ran a Successful Karate School and taught first year Law Enforcement defense at the Lethbridge Community College. Working closely with Sensei Chris Leong, the style developed into a blend of several Okinawan/Japanese karate styles. Moving to Victoria in 1988, Jim had already instructed over 1,000 students. During his seven year stay he began Educated Defense, a company that has presented Assault Avoidance seminars to more than 800 women, including the Office of the Premier. Jim opened his first Kamloops location in 1996, and has continued in his desire to train students in the art of Karate. He is a dedicated teacher, holds a third degree black belt in Shokaido karate, and holds a post secondary diploma in Psychology and Social Work.