Rank Promotion

We do not take the responsibility of evaluating a martial artist or style lightly. Although the integrity of some ranks awarded by other martial arts associations, federations, governing bodies, and martial arts organizations have been somewhat questionable, this sort of corruption will not happen on the SMAA’s watch, regardless of all other factors! We have strict criteria that must be met and yet we remain as open minded as any martial arts association, federation, governing body, or martial arts organization (legitimate organization, that is, not a diploma mill!) in existence.

Rank certificates are available to all martial artists that wish to register their rank or  be evaluated and are approved for promotion by the SMAA.

The SMAA policy for rank evaluation and possible promotion is:

There is no charge for rank testing and evaluation. A martial artist seeking possible promotion through the SMAA must have sufficient time in grade. PLEASE NOTE: meeting the time in grade requirement does not automatically qualify you for promotion. Each and every SMAA member must have his level of ability evaluated before rank registration or promotion can be considered. This evaluation may be in the form of personal or video evaluation. The ranks up through and including 3rd dan are based largely on technical ability, while the ranks from 4th dan and up are based more and more (for each successive rank) on teaching ability, service and contributions to the arts. Rank promotion fee is to be paid if the individual is approved for promotion.