Master Titles

Within the IUKF, the titles of Renshi, Kyoshi, and Hanshi represent the highest levels of character, personal development, technical maturity, and service to Uechi-Ryu karate. These titles are not automatically awarded with a promotion in rank. Instead, they are conferred upon senior practitioners who have demonstrated sustained dedication to training, excellence in instruction, and meaningful service to their dojo, organization, and the broader Uechi-Ryu community. Consideration is given not only to rank and experience but also to integrity, leadership, and the ability to transmit the principles of the art to future generations.

All candidates for the Master Title must meet both the age and the rank requirements (as of the application date) as indicated in the currently approved IUKF Dan Rank, Titles and Teaching Certificates chart.

Renshi

  • Hold rank of 6th Dan or higher
  • Accomplished expert of strong character, a skilled teacher, and a proficient level of knowledge of Uechi-Ryu karate.
  • Must be at least 37 years old.
  • Be affiliated with an established IUKF-member dojo for at least 1 year. 
  • The candidate must be actively contributing (teaching, presenting, writing, recording videos) to Uechi-ryu karate.

 

Kyoshi

  • Possess the title of Renshi and hold the rank of 7th Dan or higher.
  • A senior master with strong character, a teacher of teachers, and a deep understanding of Uechi-Ryu karate.
  • Must be at least 45 years old.
  • Be affiliated with an established IUKF-member dojo for at least 1 year. 
  • The candidate must be actively contributing to the art of Uechi-ryu (teaching, presenting, writing, recording videos).

 

Hanshi 

  • Possess the title of Kyoshi and hold the rank of 8th Dan or higher
  • A model senior master who embodies the art in character, skill, and philosophy. Demonstrates outstanding character, sound leadership, teaching expertise, mentorship to others, and is an exemplary example of Uechi-Ryu Karate.
  • Be affiliated with an IUKF-member dojo that has been in good standing for at least 1 year. 
  • Must be at least 55 years old.
  • Meritorious service must be recognized.

 

1) Nomination by the Sensei or Senior Uechi-Ryu Karateka

A candidate must be nominated by their Sensei. If, however, the candidate has no Sensei, then a higher-ranked IUKF senior Uechi-Ryu practitioner may nominate them. The nomination letter must explain the reason the candidate qualifies for the title. This nomination should be submitted in the Sensei Login Portal on the IUKF website.

2) Candidate Submits Curriculum Vitae/Resume

Provide a chronological timeline of your study of Uechi-Ryu Karate. This would include length of study, instructor(s), promotional dates, etc.

Also, your Uechi-Ryu karate (martial arts) background including:

  • Teaching Experience: Show evidence of where you have taught, currently teach Uechi-Ryu Karate, and the length of time. List any Dan-ranked students. 
  • Seminars/workshop presentations: Include a listing of seminars, invitations as a guest instructor, or workshop presentations in Uechi-Ryu Karate.
  • Publications: including written articles o and/or book that contributed to the art of Uechi-Ryu Karate.
  • Videos created that depict unique teaching skills, principles, developing, bunkai, kumite, self-defense, or other topics. 
  • Awards or special recognitions given to you by your peers in the Uechi-Ryu Karate community.
  • List other contributions relating to and contributing to the understanding or the growth of the art of Uechi-Ryu or the IUKF. 

 

3) References 

Candidate must also provide the names and contact information of three Uechi-ryu Karate-do references, with at least one being an IUKF member. The references should be available to the titles committee.

The nomination letter and the candidate’s CV must be submitted to the Titles Committee Administrator via the Sensei login Portal. After a review of your submitted documents, they will be forwarded to the other members of the Titles Committee for review. A recommendation from the IUKF Titles Committee will then be forwarded to the IUKF President for confirmation.

NOTE: The Titles Committee will assist any candidate with the application process. Please contact the Titles Committee Chairman:  Bruce.witherell@outlook.com