#S13 Special Episode - An In-Depth Look at the Roles of a Teacher with Douglas Tong

Douglas Tong is from Orangeville, Canada, and has been teaching kenjutsu since returning from Japan in 1994 at Tokumeikan.

He now continues his studies under Mutoh Sensei’s successor, Master Yasushi Kajitsuka, the 11th soke of Yagyu Shingan Ryu Taijutsu (Edo-Line) and 3rd shihan of the Ohtsubo Branch of Yagyu Shinkage Ryu.

In his professional life, Mr. Tong has a Master’s Degree in Education. He taught overseas for many years in Japan. When he returned to Canada, he was employed as a lecturer and course instructor in the Department of Applied Linguistics at Brock University. He is currently a public schoolteacher with the Peel District School Board, the second largest school board in Canada. All in all, he has 30+ years teaching experience (20 years in public school teaching, 5 years at Brock University, and 5 years overseas).

An experienced Master Teacher, Mr. Tong has served for years as an Associate Teacher (mentor) for many Teacher-Candidates (interns), mentoring and instructing young teachers who are just entering the profession. Mr. Tong is also dedicated to making a difference in the schools that he works in, serving in various administrative committees to do with staffing, culture and climate, and leadership. He is furthermore dedicated to improving the lives of the teachers he works with. Serving as Union Steward at his school, he safeguards the rights of, mediates for, and counsels teachers. Finally, Mr. Tong is a member of the Ontario College of Teachers in good standing.

Mr. Tong is the leader of the official study group (keiko-kai) for the Ohtsubo Branch in Canada under Master Kajitsuka.

In his' words:

“Kenjutsu (Japanese sword-fighting) is endlessly fascinating. Whether you are fighting with two swords, have only a short sword, fighting against a naginata or a spear, dueling sword versus sword, or even trying to survive when you have only your bare hands against an opponent wielding a sword (“muto” – the famous theory of No-Sword), there is always something to learn: about the weapon, the tactics, the psychological mindset, the style’s particular approach, or even about yourself. These moments of realization, these sudden epiphanies. That is the real beauty of the art.”

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