The Murdoch University Kendo Club (MUKC) is a prestigious martial arts club located in Murdoch, Western Australia. Founded in March 1997 by Chris Graham-sensei, the club has since become actively involved in state and national competitions, including the Australian Kendo Championships and the Australian University Games. MUKC is proud to be affiliated with the West Australian Kendo Renmei and the Australian Kendo Renmei, as well as Murdoch University Sports/Guild.
The club's motto, “to know and to act, one and the same” ( chi kou gou itsu), embodies their dedication to both understanding and applying the principles of kendo. MUKC welcomes members of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, and provides a supportive and inclusive environment for learning and growth.
The training sessions take place twice a week, on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the Murdoch University Sports & Recreation Centre, located at 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia. The club also offers a Beginners' Course, which is open to both students and non-students, with the exact start date for early 2024 to be determined. The course provides a comprehensive introduction to kendo, covering the basics of footwork, strikes, exercises, and more. Participants will have the opportunity to purchase their own kendo gear and compete in minor competitions during the course.
The cost of the Beginners' Course is $250, which includes a kendo uniform, shinai (bamboo sword), shinai bag, and club fees until July 2024. Loose-fitting clothes are recommended for training, and participants are requested to train barefoot. Parking is available in Murdoch University Car Park 4 for convenience.
After completing the Beginners' Course, participants are encouraged to continue their kendo journey by getting their own equipment, attending more training sessions, and becoming a member of the club. A bogu set, which includes protective armour, typically costs upwards of $500. Regular training sessions are held on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. As a member of the West Australian Kendo Renmei (WAKR), individuals also have the opportunity to train at other clubs on different days.
Membership fees, both for the club and WAKR, can be found on the club's website.
Joining the Murdoch University Kendo Club not only provides access to comprehensive training and competitions, but also grants members insurance coverage and the chance to apply for grants. Whether you are a novice looking to embark on a new martial arts journey or an experienced kendo practitioner seeking a supportive community, MUKC welcomes you to join and become a part of their rich history and tradition. For more information, visit their website or contact them via the provided email address.