New Intern: Congratulations to Carl!

The newest intern has now been chosen by Shiramizu for July 1, 2008 to July 1, 2009. We want to thank all those people who applied, as well as those people who sent in questions already asking about next year's position!

The intern chosen for this year was by far our best applicant, and he just happens to be in the Wadokai. But we are open to anyone who practices any karate style who wants to apply so for those people interested, keep your eye on this blog for an announcement soon about 2009!

Below, Lawrence has an interview with our new intern!
Richard

Congrats indeed to Carl Jorgeson for being chosen as Shiramizu's 4th intern starting from this July 1! Carl is an English Wadokai member living in Hartlepool, who helps run the Hartlepool Wadokai Karate Club. Hartlepool Wadokai is also a member of Wado Aiwakai Karate-do Federation, under the guidance of Kuniaki Sakagami Sensei.

Even better is that the congratulations can be extended to Carl's fiance Amy who is also a Wadokai member, making the two of them Shiramizu's first ever Internship Couple!

I've got an exclusive interview with the next Shiramizu Intern...

Lawrence: So, I'm sure many people are wondering, why did you apply?

Carl: I applied because travelling to Japan to train karate has been a long term ambition of mine, and the internship seemed like a great way of integrating myself into Japanese culture. The application pack said 'be immersed in the world of Japanese karate' and that really appealed to me. I also thought I should do it before I settle down and started a family.

L: The last part is definitely true- this is something best done with youth and energy! How about a goal or particular achievement you have in sights for your year here?

C: I just want to train karate intensely for a year and, as an active competitor, this can only be a good thing. I also want to experience as much [of Japan] as possible. I want to build on the success of the previous interns in making the role even better. I've thought about trying for my nidan qualification whilst in Japan, too. Finally, as the first 'non-Canadian' on the program, I want to do a good job and be a great ambassador for Sensei Sakagami and my association back home in England.

L: How about Japan itself? Have you been to Japan before and what did you think about it? Or, if you haven't, what are you most looking forward to experiencing?

C: I've never been to Japan before, but I've been involved in karate most of my life and all of my immediate family are also involved in karate. So, Japan has always been at the top of my 'wish list'. I'm most looking forward to experiencing the social nature of Japan, and getting stuck into the hard-working, community-first society.

And so, it goes without saying that with his open mind and motivation, Carl's going to do a fine job.

Lawrence