Join Us!

We are always accepting new members who want to learn Kendo.

Classes are held at the Welland Martial Arts Centre, 40 Division St. in Welland or at St. Andrew's United Church, 92 Main St., Port Dalhousie (St. Catharines).

Class times are Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7:40 ~ 9:40 p.m. (Welland) or Saturday mornings from 10:15 a.m. ~ 12:15 p.m. (St. Catharines).

No experience is required. Students must be at least 8 years of age to practice. Our St. Catharines classes are for students 18 years of age and families only.

Dues

The Hayakawa Kendo Club is run on a not-for-profit basis.

The monthly cost of membership is $40 for adults, $20 for elementary, high school, college or university students. Due to our special relationship with the Welland Martial Arts Centre, the monthly fee for their club members is $20. For families with at least one adult, the first adult will be at the regular rate and additional family members will be half price (i.e. $50 / month for a parent/guardian and child).

Every year, there are dues payable to the Canadian Kendo Federation (CKF) and Ontario Kendo Federation (OKF). All members of the Hayakawa Kendo Club must be registered with the CKF and OKF for grading and insurance purposes. The combined fees are $45 / year for 2010.

Other Costs

Kendo requires an investment in equipment and uniforms, but with the exception of the shinai (bamboo sword), armour (bogu) and uniforms (keiko-gi and hakama) tend to last for years. Expect to pay around $175 for the uniform, a shinai, set of bokuto (wooden swords) and a shinai/bokuto carry bag, shipping and duties included.*

You do not need to purchase a uniform right away. However, we do encourage all students to purchase a shinai, bokuto set and carry bag once they have committed to join the club. The club has loaner shinai and bokuto in limited quantities.

Bogu usually holds its value well so if you ever decide to leave Kendo or upgrade to a new set, you'll be able to sell it fairly easily. The club has several sets of bogu available for rent for a small monthly fee. If you're interested in purchasing, a good pre-owned set of bogu can sometimes be found starting at $450.

If you are interested in joining, all you have to do is show up at a practice. However, please call Mark Kawabe at 289-241-3080 or e-mail the club a few days in advance. There may be a special seminar or other event not suitable for first-time students that day so it's good to confirm you're coming.

*Estimated price based on our most recent purchases in July 2010. Price subject to change without notice.