On Friday November 16th 2007, Hagihara Sensei conducted the Fall 2007 promotion examination at the Long Island Aikikai. Surprisingly, this was one of the largest turnouts we have had for a test in quite some time. In the short class prior to the examination, there were 33 people on the mat (not including Sensei). Although rank is never a true measure of someone’s being, examination time is a chance for us to acknowledge and celebrate ones growth within the Dojo community. To see this show of support for fellow members is really something special.
Prior to the examination, Hagihara Sensei reiterated the importance of relaxation; that even during the examination process, with all eyes watching, examinees should not resort to mere physical strength in order to accomplish the prescribed techniques.

The examination panel was made up of Hagihara Sensei, Saul Rosenberg, John O’Connor , Perry Dortch (Aikido Club of Queens) and myself. Since Hagihara Sensei defaulted to me, I had the pleasure of being able to call the examination techniques; something that in my years with Hagihara Sensei, only he has done.
It was great to see the hard work that these examinees invested in themselves pay off. To be honest, I was surprised that everyone did as good as they did. It was one of the better tests I have ever seen. Everyone performed with confidence.
That night we had eight examinees go up for promotion as follows:
- one child for 12th Kyu
- one gentleman for 5th Kyu
- one gentleman for 4th Kyu
- one woman for 3rd Kyu (originally testing for 4th Kyu, but Sensei suggested that I test her for 3rd Kyu as well.)
- three gentlemen for Shodan
- one gentleman for Nidan.
Every once in a while Sensei promotes someone past a rank that the individual was expecting to test for. At this test we had a woman who was only testing for 4th Kyu, test for 3rd Kyu as well; with no real foreknowledge. Although it was obvious to all watching that she was more than capable of performing the techniques (she even had to perform Randori), her advancement was largely in part to her Ukemi. To demonstrate this, I called on her to perform breakfalls out of Kotegaeshi, Shihonage and Iriminage; which she did with grace. Looking back, I wish I did that good when I tested for 3rd Kyu.
Another notable test was that of the young boy testing for 12th Kyu. For most of the test I was assigning specific people to take Ukemi for the examinees. When it came to this young boy, I allowed him to pick his own Uke thinking that he would choose someone that he was comfortable practicing with. When he pointed to who he wanted, all of us thought he was pointing to his father. But when his father stood up, he said “no . . . him” as he continued to point. He said it with such conviction that I had to allow it. Up came a white belt that I later found out that he has never practiced with before and who has only been with us a short time. Although this Uke was later humbly relieved by another, the focus of the young boy and the openness of the white belt was a sight to be seen.
Before the examination ceremony came to a close, Hagihara Sensei informed the examinees and spectators that everyone passed. To the surprise of many, he made a few more promotion announcements. To be effective at the New Year they are:
- Adam Pilipshen (Yondan)
- John O’Connor (Yondan)
- Anthony Weidner (Yondan)
- Perry Dortch from Aikido Club of Queens (Godan)
- Saul Rosenberg (Rokudan)
- Cal Fromer (Rokudan)
Please remember that Hagihara Sensei stresses that all members, regardless of rank, should come and be part of the examination process. Since examinations are announced long in advance and are infrequent, everyone should be able to fit these important events into their schedule. Positive growth of the next generation best comes about from the dedication and nurturing of those that have come before. Remember this the next time you feel that your presence is not needed.
I look forward to seeing you next time,
Adam Pilipshen
Dojo-cho