The UCLA Kendo Club recently hosted its yearly Collegiate Joint Practice on Sunday, February 25, 2024, bringing together over 100 students from universities across southern California like USC, UCSD, UCI, and Cal Poly. Led by Team Captain Paul Hirose and guided by Nathan Sensei and Makino Sensei, the event served as a platform for skill enhancement and a celebration of kendo spirit among students and alumni.
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The practice began with basic strikes and waza (technique) exercises, in line with UCLA Kendo Club's regular training. Participants then engaged in mawarigeiko, rotating through partners and schools. The Joint Practice this time also featured a 7v7 kachinukisen, a winner-stays-on format that pushed participants to their limits while spectators cheered them on.
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The Collegiate Joint Practice served a dual purpose – a chance to meet like-minded individuals from different universities and an opportunity to learn about diverse playstyles.
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"The practice was a great opportunity to bond with athletes from different universities and practice my kendo with a variety of fighting styles," remarked Hayden Kim, president of UCLA Kendo, "It was a valuable experience that let me improve my kendo and form friendships with those I would have otherwise never met."
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The UCLA Kendo Club's Collegiate Joint Practice stood as a testament to connection, sportsmanship, and skill development. This event offers a glimpse into a community that transcends university boundaries, providing not just a martial art but a pathway to lasting friendships and personal growth. As the tradition continues, there is undoubtedly much more for kendo practitioners from different universities to look forward to in the coming years.
