The Riverina-Murray students were among 150 from across the All Stars footprint to attend the grading ceremony at McKinnon Secondary College East Campus in East Bentleigh.
Daniel Zrajko from Deniliquin All Stars said the local students were justly rewarded for their hard work, which “culminated in exceptional achievements across various belt levels”.
“The day highlighted the perseverance, discipline, and community spirit of all involved.”
Zrajko, who is also All Stars’ NSW branch director, said a highlight of the grading day was the presentation of the Ishoa Cross to Kobie Nixon and Lillianne Jansen.
It is a prestigious pendant presented by the head of the school to students who embody the seven virtues of Bushido - rectitude, courage, benevolence, respect, honesty, honour, and loyalty.
Other milestones reached are as follows:
• Flynn and Cody Smith, and Finley’s Patrick Hibberd were promoted to Sho Dan Ho (probationary black belt), marking their first step into the esteemed black belt ranks. The black belt grading involves being observed and tested on various skills, such as physical techniques, fitness, self-defence, verbal diffusion skills, and coordination.
• Tyler Hipworth-Hiller achieved Sho Dan (1st Degree Black Belt), demonstrating outstanding mastery of kata and technical skills. This grading focuses on very specific techniques, with students required to perform all the kata (patterns/routines of techniques) they have learned to date with precision.
• Seth Fuess and Kobie Nixon attained Ni Dan Ho (Probationary 2nd Degree) after enduring this demanding challenge.
• Lillianne Jansen and Jake Harvey ascended to Ni Dan (2nd Degree Black Belt), demonstrating their exceptional endurance, skill, and understanding of martial arts principles. The most intense physical grading, Ni Dan requires students to endure 20 rounds of sparring against new opponents each round. Over a gruelling 90-minute session, students must win at least 75 per cent of their matches to pass.
• Kaili Anderson reached San Dan Ho (Probationary 3rd Degree), while Nicholas Stubbings and Nathan Ho earned their official San Dan (3rd Degree Black Belt), cementing their status as elite martial artists. Students at this level must showcase their ability to defend against three attackers simultaneously across four different scenarios.
• The highest honour went to Daniel Zrajko, who achieved the rank of Go Dan (5th Degree Black Belt), a testament to his years of dedication, mastery, and leadership. The pinnacle of the day involved defending against eight directional attacks, with a focus on efficiently countering aggression while cultivating calmness and confidence.
• Koda Dick reached a major milestone by earning his second black tip toward achieving his black belt, showcasing steady progress and unwavering commitment.
The event also celebrated leadership and mentorship within the dojo:
• Senpai (a title of respect) was awarded to Flynn Smith, Henry Campion, Seth Fuess, and Lachlan Marshall for their guidance and mentorship.
• Jake Harvey was elevated to Dai Senpai (teacher's assistant), acknowledging his advanced leadership role.
• Nicholas Stubbings was honoured with the title of Sensei, recognising his expertise, dedication, and role as an instructor in the martial arts community.
Local awards were also presented to wrap up the year.
These awards recognise individual achievements in training.
Awards presented were as follows:
Deniliquin awards: Most Improved Junior - Charlotte O'Connor; Most Improved Senior - Joella Allan; Most Consistent Junior - Rhys Evola; Most Consistent Senior - Renee Skinner.
Finley awards: Most Improved - Jack Congram; Most Consistent - Charlie Harvey.
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