What is Squad?

Squad is BBMA’s Kumite Competition Team—a gateway to becoming a skilled karate competitor. BBMA boasts a proud history of success, with members achieving national and state titles, as well as international recognition. Starting with Kyoshi Liz and Shihan Lliam, this legacy has passed through generations, including teachers like Sensei Josh, and now, it’s your turn to continue the tradition.

At BBMA Hornsby, our developmental squad program is a stepping stone. It’s relatively new but aims to build the foundation for an ELITE squad program—a future pathway for state and national team members. This is where your journey begins: learning the basics of competition karate, mastering fundamentals, and understanding the rules of sports karate at a pace designed for beginner to ‘intermediate’ kumite athletes.

Why Should I Compete?

At BBMA, we believe, “Karate is not only karate, it is life.” Competition karate challenges you to grow under constructive pressure, fostering resilience, courage, and confidence. For some, regular classes and dojo sparring are enough; for others, competition is the crucible where they become their best selves.

What do I Need to Do?

While medals and titles are rewarding, Squad’s true focus lies in personal growth. As a Squad member, you’ll receive exclusive, advanced instruction—far beyond what is offered in regular classes—at no additional charge for most Squad activities. Membership is by invitation only, granting you special status within Hornsby Dojo. However, with this privilege come responsibilities and obligations.

Expectations & Obligations of a Squad Athlete

1. Training and Belt Progression

   • Kyu grades (white to brown advanced belts) must maintain regular class attendance and progress through gradings. Achieving black belt remains your primary goal. Post-black belt, you may choose to focus more on competition.

2. Participation in Competition

   • All Squad members are required to compete at least once per year, following adequate preparation discussed with parents and instructors. We will guide you in selecting suitable competitions and divisions.

3. Teamwork & Supporting Others

   • Squad is about mutual support and teamwork. Members must prioritize the team’s collective success, encouraging and supporting their teammates. Only those committed to fostering this environment will be invited to join.

4. Leadership

   • All Squad members must enroll in the Squad Leadership Program, developing leadership skills both on and off the mat, the BBMA way.

5. Financial Commitment

   • Competing involves costs—tournament fees, special (paid) events, equipment, travel, and uniforms. Some students may require a financial membership upgrade in order to enter our Squad team. Contact staff for current pricing.

6. Contribution

   • Squad members benefit from extra training and attention from Sensei Josh. In return, we expect members to contribute to BBMA’s Hornsby community and school. For example through volunteering, ‘‘Team Leading’, and by assisting more junior students.

7. Independence

   • Squad members must manage their own competition journey. For juniors, parents must be prepared to take the lead role in tournament administration, including seeking necessary information from Karate Australia or other organizers.

8. Attendance at Kumite Events

   • Special paid Kumite events, such as ‘Immersion’ seminars, are designed to enhance your skills and set you up for success. Attendance is mandatory for all Squad members.

9. Well-Rounded Karateka

   • Training in all aspects of karate is essential. Kumite Squad members must also focus on kata and basics to maintain proper form and technique.

10. Flexibility & Consideration

    • Squad schedules may change due to unforeseen circumstances. We ask for your patience and understanding as Sensei Josh manages both the Squad and the broader school.

What Else is Involved in Competition?

• Equipment: Competitions require specific gear, including red and blue belts, approved gloves, shin insteps, body protectors, and mouthguards. Boys need a groin guard, and girls require a chest guard. We will guide you on what’s needed.

• Divisions: Competitions are divided by age, weight, and event type (kata or kumite). We will assist you in selecting the right divisions.

• Locations: Most competitions are held in Liverpool, Sydney, with one on the Central Coast hosted by BBMA.

• Pathway: There’s a clear progression from local competitions to state and national teams. If this interests you, we will guide you every step of the way.

By joining the Squad, you commit to becoming a better athlete, a stronger teammate, and a more confident, courageous person. We’re excited to have you on this journey!

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Squad Schedule - Term 1 2025

These sessions are mandatory for Squad Team Members:

• Kumite Immersion Series - January 13 to January 17 (find more information here)

• 2025 Squad ‘Try Outs’ and Squad Class - 6pm January 24

• Squad Class - 6pm Friday Feb 7

• Squad Class - 6pm Friday Feb 14

• Squad Class - 8pm Monday Feb 17

• All Styles Karate Championships - Feb 22 and Feb 23

• Progress Check & Makeup Class Week - Feb 23 to March 1

• Squad Class - 8pm Monday Feb 24

• NSW State Championships - Saturday March 8

• Australian Open - April 4 to April 6

• Last Day of Term 1 - Saturday April 12

• Term 2 Starts - Monday April 28

Additionally, Squad team members are expected to attend our weekly (regular) Kumite Classes

• Every Tuesday of Term (except Graduation & ‘Holiday Program’ weeks) at 5:45pm

If you cannot attend any session above it is important to let us know (in advance). We build our Squad sessions around the needs of individual team members, so we need to know if you won’t be there.