: Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu Association Of Hawaii will be the first Kwong Sai Jook Lum Gee Tong Long Pai school to instate a ranking system. This is what Sifu David Moragne had to say about it.
Why did you feel a ranking system should be instated?
After discussing it with Master Mark, I'm teaching the traditional art with a modern visual aid, so people can see their growth. It won't in any way sacrifice the integrity of the system or myself.
How is this going to work?
There will be no ranking in the beginning in order to develop the internal patience and discipline that it takes to build a foundation in the art. As a student progresses, they will be awarded a black sash with different colored tassels, signifying their level of understanding. It won't be based merely on the amount of time someone has been in the school. This will also keep people from making false claims about their knowledge of the Southern Praying Mantis system.
When will this ranking system be instated?
The Maui, Hawaii school will be the first to instate this system. It actually began the beginning of December this year(97). I'm proud to see that there has been no change in how my students interact with each other. There has been no ego involved. After all, we are all one family.