Year 8 Kendo Experience

On Thursday August 10, the Year 8 students of Japanese were able to experience Kendo, an authentic Japanese martial art, that was used to train samurai warriors. Gary Oliver, who runs a Kendo school in Ballarat, taught the boys about Bushido, the way of the warrior and the origins of modern day martial arts. Starting with seiza (a Japanese traditional form of kneeling) the students learned to mask their pain and keep opponents guessing at all times. The presentation was tied in with this term’s theme of hobbies, sports and afterschool activities. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience for all.