MAAS International
(Martial Arts All Styles International) is a global, non-profit organization for martial artists, founded on the principle of minimal political interference and maximum support for its members. It distinguishes itself from traditional martial arts federations by operating as a network rather than a rigid governing body.
What MAAS International is:
1. Core Philosophy and Mission:
- Network over Federation: MAAS International views itself as a collaborative network of martial artists, rather than a top-down federation that dictates rules or curriculum. This fosters a more open and inclusive environment.
- Supporting Independence: A central tenet is to support the independence of individual martial artists and their clubs. MAAS does not impose strict rules or expectations on how different styles are taught or how clubs are run. This allows instructors and students to maintain their unique identity and training methods.
- Voluntary and Professional: The organization is run by dedicated martial arts professionals who volunteer their services. This non-profit approach emphasizes shared passion and mutual support over commercial interests.
- Inclusivity and Sharing: MAAS believes there’s room for both traditional and modern, free styles of martial arts. Its mission is to share knowledge, educate, and facilitate growth among martial artists worldwide, encouraging collaboration even with other organizations.
- Focus on Development and Inspiration: MAAS aims to be a source of inspiration and support for instructors looking to start their own clubs or those already running clubs but needing better support or new ideas. They offer additional services to help members grow and develop.
2. Key Characteristics and Services:
- No Mandatory Fees: Unlike many traditional federations, MAAS International emphasizes minimal or no annual fees or mandatory costs, believing that the business aspects of running a club are best handled by the clubs themselves, while martial arts should be about sharing and enjoyment.
- International Reach: It connects martial artists across the globe, providing a platform for international seminars, training camps, and instructor courses. This allows members to learn from diverse perspectives and build a global martial arts community.
- Instructor Support and Courses: MAAS International regularly hosts instructor courses, open to anyone willing to learn about principles and simplicity in martial arts. They also host open seminars with international instructors and special weapons training.
- Grading Support: While instructors typically grade their own students, MAAS officials can support the grading of advanced grades. MAAS certificates can be used, or co-designed diplomas can be provided to combine a club’s own brand with MAAS. They emphasize that MAAS grades are not to be taken lightly and strive to certify quality instructors teaching quality martial arts.
- Technical Board: MAAS has a technical board of assessors that can offer independent assessments for instructors’ skills, knowledge, and status, especially for those wanting to experiment with their own imagination and creativity within their style.
- Community Building: They actively encourage members to attend seminars, instructor courses, training camps, and competitions to meet other members, maintain standards, and foster a strong network for shared learning and growth.
3. Contrast with Traditional Federations:
MAAS International stands out by offering a more flexible and less bureaucratic alternative to traditional martial arts federations. While federations often have strict rules, hierarchical structures, and mandatory memberships, MAAS focuses on:
- Empowerment: Giving more autonomy to individual instructors and clubs.
- Collaboration: Encouraging cross-style and cross-organizational cooperation.
- Simplicity: Reducing administrative burdens and financial commitments.
In essence, MAAS International is designed for martial artists who value freedom, collaboration, and continuous learning within a supportive global community, without the constraints often associated with more rigid organizational structures.
”Officers” within MAAS International (Martial Arts All Styles International), it’s important to understand that their structure emphasizes a decentralized network rather than a hierarchical, top-down leadership seen in many traditional federations. Influence within MAAS often comes from deep martial arts experience, dedication to the MAAS philosophy of collaboration and independence, and active participation in the global network.
Here are some of the key figures and types of influential people within MAAS International, based on available information:
1. Founder/President:
- Grand Master Brian Dossett (UK): He is the Founder and President of MAAS International. With over 50 years of experience in martial arts and a long history of involvement in various styles (including bare-knuckle fighting, boxing, judo, wrestling, and karate), he is considered a living martial arts legend by many. His decision to create MAAS stemmed from a desire to move away from the ”political interference” and limitations he experienced in other martial arts organizations, focusing instead on a more open and supportive network. He also founded other organizations like SCI and BKBU. His vision underpins the entire MAAS philosophy.
2. International Leadership and Directors:
These individuals play a crucial role in shaping the direction and operations of MAAS International:
- International Kancho Jens Hogsander (Sweden): Holds a position as a Director of MAAS. 6th Dan BUDO and Ju Jutsu MAAS International
- Maestro Giancarlo Bagnulo (Italy): An International Ambassador and Kancho of Italy 8th Dan Ju Jutsu ACSI, highlighting his significant role in promoting MAAS globally.
- Grand Master James Cockram (UK): Serves as a Liaison Officer for MAAS International.
3. Country Representatives:
Country representatives are highly influential within their respective regions as they are the direct link between local martial artists and the broader MAAS International network. They are responsible for implementing MAAS’s philosophy and facilitating activities in their countries.
- Sensei Sami Koivumäki (Finland): As the MAAS International Membership Administrator and Country Representative for MAAS Finland, he is a key figure in the organization’s administration and expansion, particularly in Finland. He is also involved in the MAAS Finland Dan Kollegio (karate as a secretary).
- Other country representatives are listed for various nations (e.g., Shihan Ariel Ramirez for Cuba, Master Ngangoue Ngouoli for Congo Brazzaville, Kancho Rune Eines for Sweden, Shihan Toni Petrov for Bulgaria, etc. ALL REPS:).
4. Technical Advisors and Board Members:
MAAS International relies on a board of experienced martial artists who provide technical guidance and uphold the quality standards of various styles within the network. These individuals often hold high ranks and have extensive experience in their respective disciplines. Examples include:
- Soke Joachim Jenkel Peters (Germany): From World Budo & Kobudo Federation.
- Grand Master Gregory Jump (USA): From Silent Stream Martial Arts.
- Shihan Mirko Di Cristofari (Italy): From Italian Ju Jitsu Society.
- Coach Tommi Nyström (Finland): MAAS Technical Advisor for Krav Maga and chairman of SKML.
- International Instructor Petteri Kantola (Finland): MAAS Technical Advisor for Defendo.
- Shidoin Esa Hirvonen (Finland): MAAS Finland Technical Advisor for Aikido.
- Shihan Oiva Tyni (Finland): Founder of Tayo Ryu Karate and Chair of the Tayo Ryu Style College within MAAS Finland. He is a significant figure in Finnish karate.
5. Influential Club/Dojo Leaders:
Many local club leaders and chief instructors, who choose to affiliate with MAAS International, become influential figures within their own communities and contribute to the network’s overall strength. Their commitment to the MAAS philosophy and the quality of their instruction help spread the organization’s reach and values.
In summary, influence within MAAS International is multifaceted. While there’s a clear founder and core leadership, the distributed nature of the network means that country representatives, technical advisors, and even committed local instructors hold significant sway in promoting MAAS’s unique vision of collaborative and independent martial arts training.
More information: info@maasint.com
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