Reason For My Resgination

Sukh Sandhu

10-2007

As most of you know I have decided to leave the Jinenkan Organization. Since being involved from the inception of this organization (1996) and learning directly or indirectly from Manaka Sensei for almost 20 years (Since 1988), I have always pursued learning from great warriors and more importantly great leaders and individuals of high character.  In the last few years a shift in priorities has occurred in this organization, a shift to something that I no longer believe in.  To quote another great Koryu master, Risuke Otake of the Katori Shinto Ryu, “Providing personalized instruction to hundreds or thousands of students is an impossible task.  That is why teachers should never try to amass a large body of students.”   What I write below is not to create conflict, but rather help others understand my decision.

There have been many instances of internal turmoil among the individuals who have been placed (in theory) in “leadership” roles.  I believe if you have the opportunity to train directly with Manaka Sensei, you should.  Unfortunately, the skill sets of many of the other “leaders” leaves much to be desired. 

Therefore, your best opportunity to grow as a martial artist would be training directly with the head of the organization.  Manaka Sensei is by far, one of the best martial artists I have ever met or had the privilege to call my teacher.  I will always respect my teacher, and I will always train using the information he has given to me over the last 20 years.  I would encourage you to go to him directly to learn the art and lineages that we so admire.

This decision was not an easy one, one that I struggled with in my mind and heart over the last few months.  Interesting enough, my internal turmoil was not over the Jinenkan organization, but rather the man I admired most, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Fumio Manaka, Unsui Sensei, KanCho of the Jinenkan, my teacher for the last 20 years.  I wish him nothing but happiness and success because he has given me more than I could ever repay him for.

I will continue training at our little dojo in Ohio.  Anyone who is sincere and honestly wants to learn is welcome to come train with us regardless of organization (Jinenkan, Bujinkan, Genbukan, Shotokan, etc.) or politics.  Politics have no place in our training hall.  I want to thank all of you who have supported and encouraged me through out the years and this transition, regardless of affiliation. 

I am in this for the training, the self development and the pursuit of being a productive member to those around me!