The E.S.K.K® Student of the Year Award (SOTYA) is both a special honour and a great achievement within the association. It is presented to those students who have shown outstanding qualities and whose commitment, dedication and selflessness can act as an inspiration to all other members.

What makes the SOTYA so special is that the final decision is not only made by the Chief Instructor, but is also influenced by every other member of the group. Each year, a student is selected based on a student poll, ongoing suitability assessments and a meeting with the most senior members of the group. Using this information as a guide, the Chief Instructor makes the final decision as to who should achieve the award.

The award is presented "for true dedication outstanding commitment & genuine respect", and is given each year in March to coincide with our annual celebrations.

This marks our seventh Student of the Year Award and it is always a very important time for our dojo. Our semi-closed status means that we only accept those who possess the dedication and commitment to train hard and regularly. With so much effort being displayed on a weekly basis, acknowledging an individual that stands out from the crowd is special to say the least. Firstly, since every member has the right to vote, any self-ego needs to be put to one side so that genuine honesty can shine through. Secondly, often the dojo instructors see things differently than the members in the class, so having two separate viewpoints is a valuable luxury when making the final decision as to who should win. This high level of scrutiny means that every winner not only thoroughly deserves the award, but in accepting the honour, it is also expected that they take on the responsibility that comes with it. That is continuing to be a fine role model and an inspiration to all fellow/future members.

It was my pleasure to present the 2010-2011 Student of the Year Award to Matthew Easdon. Matt has worked exceptionally hard over the past months, improving technically with a deep thirst for knowledge. He very rarely misses a session and his attitude in the dojo is one of determination and respect for everyone else present in the room. He actively supports many aspects of our group, he's always very keen to help out and openly provides advice and guidance to others with a real sense of enthusiasm. He is obviously very passionate about his training and this makes him a fantastic example of the principles and philosophies we adhere to in the dojo.

By recognising Matt's personal qualities through this award, I'm sure that he will use it as a bench mark to progress further and continue to develop throughout what I hope will become a lifelong journey in karate. I offer my sincere congratulations and wish him all the best for the future.

Chris Denwood
Founder & Chief Instructor E.S.K.K® (March 2011)