Introducing the Black Belt Club

Introducing the Black Belt Club to your school is a simple and exciting process. Everyone loves to be recognized for hard work, and the Black Belt Club provides a high level of recognition to your students. Plus, it increases your revenue while also boosting student enthusiasm and retention. What could be better?

If you do not currently have a Black Belt Club in your school, don’t delay any longer! Every month without a Black Belt Club is a month of lost revenue and student retention opportunities. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Announce the Black Belt Club

At the conclusion of your next exam, announce to the students that your school is now offering the Black Belt Club. Explain:

“The Black Belt Club is not for students who just train recreationally or miss class and don’t try as hard as they could. The Black Belt Club is for students with great attendance, a great Black Belt Attitude, and a commitment to earning their Black Belt.”

Benefits of the Black Belt Club:

  • Special privileges including a patch, membership card, and a certificate demonstrating their commitment to earning a Black Belt.
  • Access to special Black Belt Club events.
  • Additional classes.
  • Discounts on one training item per month.
  • Eligibility to wear a special uniform and belt (if your system allows).
  • Qualification for the leadership team.

“Over the next 30 days, your instructors will be evaluating you very closely to see if you qualify for membership in the National Black Belt Club. The only way to join the Black Belt Club is to be recommended by one of our instructors, so let’s hit it hard gang.”

Step 2: Target Students and Set Appointments

Identify all students eligible for the Black Belt Club, typically those in their first year of training. If you are just starting the club, include upper ranks as well. Rate these students as A, B, or C:

  • A Students: The top third of your school. They have great enthusiasm, attend every class and event, and prioritize martial arts in their lives.
  • B Students: Have good attendance and effort but are inconsistent in their enthusiasm. They attend some special events and could easily be influenced to become A students.
  • C Students: Lack motivation, attend classes irregularly, and need a lot of attention and encouragement to get excited about martial arts.

List the A students on the MATA BBC Qualification Progress Sheet and schedule conferences with each of them to explain the renewal program.

Step 3: Conduct Renewal Conferences

Review the benefits the student has enjoyed as part of your program. Use test closes to gauge the parent’s level of interest and commitment. These minor agreements help move towards the final agreement of joining the Black Belt Club. Lead the parent to talk about the positive impact your program has had on their child, reinforcing the value and effectiveness of your training.