New rules

[GJEC]

I'm going to introduce the following into the dojo:

1) Three strikes and you're out. If someone injures another member or otherwise upsets the atmosphere I will first advise, then warn, then finally expel.

2) New members will be on a probationary period, following which existing members can blackball them if they don't fit in. The guiding principle is "No dickheads".

3) Any criminal charges related to violence means suspension until the case is heard then expulsion if found guilty.

I run the club for free at the moment so I'd rather have fewer members that push and encourage each other. Harmony through a haze of sweat.

Gary

[curlbroscience]

I agree better to have fewer members that work hard and get along than many with a couple of bad apples trying to prove a point in dojo sparring. We run the dojo at of our home garage and so are also very picky with who visits. Although I wish we had the problem of having to turn down people...

I did like the idea that some KB instructors that run private group sessions in their home have an initial solo class and interview. Good to see if the person has good chemistry for the group.

[shugyo]

Seems we're too fast to play judge, jury, and executioner! I've no tolerance with those who are convicted of a crime!!

[GJEC]

I went to watch a Ranulf Fiennes lecture last night and his take on this was very to the point. He picks people for expeditions purely on character. "Skills can be taught, character can't"

Yet martial artists for years (me included) have always thought that through training we can help people to permanently change.

I no longer believe we can.

We can help kids whose character is still forming. We can be a good influence and help adults to learn to control themselves, but under the wrong circumstances their default character setting can easily return.

So if we've got someone overly aggressive or spiteful training, they may be OK 99% of the time. Unfortunately at some point it may all kick off. I don't take any pleasure writing this. After 42 years of research it's not nice to admit you got things wrong. I've given people second chances and third chances and still been let down.

So now once I know someone has a flawed character that reflects badly on us outside, or - more to the point - might result in injury to other members, I'm going to act for the greater good.

Gary

[MMX]

Yes if you have a member who obviously has aggression issues even after he has been told once or twice than yes I would drop them too. Not worth them driving away other members.