terryl965 said:
...would you let someone start as a BB even though they have not trained since they where 15 and is a Kukkiwon 1st ...What would you do...Terry
Master Stoker,
It is my opinion, and the way I have been taught, once a 1st Dan Black Belt has been legitimately earned, it is held for life. You can not rightfully deny, or take away this rank. If a Black Belt has done something to dishonor themself, an instructor, or organization can say that the Black Belt individual is no longer a "student in good standing" with that organization.
If a person has earned a Black Belt from an independant school or organization (other than official Kukkiwon), then the standards might be in question. In that case, I would look at the person's technique, knowledge, and attitude, check the authenticity of their certificate with their former instructor or organization, then offer to let them decide if they want to pick up where they left off, start over as a white belt, or assume any rank they feel confident with up to 1st Dan. Then, take as long as you need to prepare them for their next test.
When a new student comes from another school with relatively legitimate rank of any level, it is not so much important where you place them, but that they feel welcome, and that their past efforts, and training are not being disrespected, or stomped on by their new instructor. The important thing is that the student is willing to learn from you, without contradicting everything as to his/her previous training ("empty their cup"), and they are patient enough to train as long as it takes to get to the standard that you require for the next level.
For a Kukkiwon certified Black Belt, I would verify it's authenticity, then accept their rank without question.
That's what I would do. :asian:
CM D. J. Eisenhart