I. Organizational 1. Mission statement, 2.Name and Jurisdiction 3. Purposes and powers 4. Limitations
II. Quality Control
III. Behaviour 1. Students, 2. Black Sashs
IV. Membership 1. General membership information, 2. Lifetime membership 3. School membership, 4. Honorary membership
V. General 1. Publications / Works, 2.Training at other Academies 3. Rank Promotions (Testing), 4. Teaching
VI. Professional categories 1. Sifus, 2. Country / State Headquarters & Representatives,
(A. Procedures, B. Licensing, C. Testing), 3. Terminated Members, 4. Penalties, 5. Termination, 6. International Headquarters, 7. Board of Governors, 8. Reporting
NOTE The following rules and regulations are in full effect for all World Indepentend Chinese Martial-Arts Federation ® Members, Sifus, and Sigungs. Anyone who knows of violations of these Rules and Regulations should contact the W.I.C.M.A.F. International Headquarters.
I. Organizational
1. Mission statement
The World Indepentend Chinese Martial-Arts Federation (hereinafter referred to as W.I.C.M.A.F.) was founded by Chi-Dao-Yuan Klaus Schuhmacher.
The ideals and goals of the W.I.C.M.A.F. revolve around the instruction of our current and future generations in strong leadership skills, development of mental and physical prowess. Chinese Martial-Arts are traditional, proven methods of developing human potentials, including training in philosophies, cultural exchange, knowledge, patience, mental concentration, and focus.
Chinese Martial-Arts instruction differs from other academic training in that one learns skills that if misapplied can be detrimental to others. Therefore, strict, governing guidelines must be exercised when licensing professional Sifus and facilities. A continuing program of advanced education and revelations is necessary to ensure that the highest quality instruction is available to the public.
In order to maintain such high standards, a singular independent organization (W.I.C.M.A.F.) is established that collectively self-governs all it's licensed Sifus and academies and to adequately protect the quality of the teachings, skills, and objectives of it's founder. By teaching anyone the physical means to cause injury or worse to another human being without teaching the proper moral restraint, mental training, and behavioural instruction is tantamount to giving someone a weapon whose mental and/or moral integrity is not known.
As the singular source of Chinese Martial-Arts in the world, it is a main objective of the W.I.C.M.A.F. to self-regulate our own members to ascertain that only the highest quality instruction is given to our members and the public at large.
2. Name and Jurisdiction
The official name of the organization shall be henceforth called the ,,World Independent Chinese Martial-Arts Federation". The abbreviation of the name shall be W.I.C.M.A.F. The name W.I.C.M.A.F. has the subtitle ,, INTERNATIONAL UNITED CHINESE BOXING SYSTEMS" which is developed from the old name ,,The United Chinese Boxing System" (1986-1997). The name ,,World Independent Chinese Martial-Arts Federation" and logos are registered trade mark and therefore only the international headquarters may create certificates, ID cards, crests and other documentations.
1. Purposes, powers and objectives
The W.I.C.M.A.F. is intended to be a non-profit organization and the primary purposes and objectives for which
it was formed and the powers possessed by it include:
To serve and protect our membership and communities and to stimulate interest in Chinese Martial-Arts.
To preserve and perpetuate the art of Chinese Martial-Arts.
To disseminate information to the martial arts community and the public about original Chinese Martial Arts.
To supply our members with the highest quality of instruction, certification, encourage interest and promote better understanding between the different Chinese Martial-Arts styles, in technique, attitude and philosophy.
To recognize legitimate Sifus, Sigungs and Sijos of original Chinese Martial-Arts.
To establish a Code of Ethics calling for mutual respect between Sifus and students of the Chinese Martial Arts.
To serve as a living repository of all of the various aspects of the Chinese Martial Arts, including physical / technical training, historical foundation, scientific basis and philosophical / mental / spiritual learning.
To maintain high standards of quality with regard to the dissemination of information, concerning the Chinese Martial Arts.
To provide for an organizational forum for the exchange of business information; ideas; technical training, and growth techniques to it's professional members.
To establish a series of information and educational programs to encourage interaction with government , corporate and community-based organizations from local levels through global interactions to assist in our mutual goals.
To unite people for their mutual education and benefit.
To encourage co-operation and better understanding among members.
To supervise and conduct clinics, and demonstrations under the auspices of this Federation.
To research and study Chinese Martial-Arts with a view to establishing the highest standards of instruction and conduct.
To research and study Chinese Martial-Arts in order to better understand history, philosophy, principles and concepts.
To maintain and preserve Chinese Martial-Arts records as deemed necessary by the Executive Committee.
To publish information about Chinese Martial-Arts, including W.I.C.M.A.F. activities.
To produce foster genuine cooperation ,fellowship between reputable martial artists and organizations, and develop scientific methods for practicing and teaching Chinese Martial-Arts.
4. Limitations
The following limitations are placed on the power of the W.I.C.M.A.F. and upon the liabilities or obligations arising from its activities.
1. The organization shall not discriminate against any person or group because of race, sex, creed, religion, national origin or martial arts affiliation.
2. The organization shall not enter into agreements, contracts or arrangements which bind any school or individual members personally.
3. This Federation shall be self-governing, non-profit, non-partisan and non-sectarian.
4. No member or group of members shall be deemed to be acting in any matter for or on behalf of the W.I.C.M.A.F., or as the W.I.C.M.A.F., unless specifically authorized to do so by the Constitution or By-Laws or the W.I.C.M.A.F. president.
II. Quality Control
To ensure the highest quality instruction available to the public and to maintain the highest levels of expertise
found in original Chinese Martial-Arts.
III. Behavior
1. Students
As a student of Chinese Martial-Arts is of most importance to abide by a martial code, a code of honor.
A warrior personifies one with high moral repute, compassion for humanity, respect for one's self and others, and a constant and never-ending quest for self betterment and personal excellence. The set forth rules are to help you become a more dignified individual who understands and exemplifies the importance of integrity and the indomitable spirit.
As a student of Chinese Martial-Arts it is your duty to: Always follow the tenets of our code of ethics
Always be loyal to your parents, your teacher and show respect to your elders
Practice trust and camaraderie with your friends
Maintain courage when faced with difficulties
Never abuse your skills
Always personify the qualities of humanity, justice, courtesy, wisdom, trust, goodness, virtue, loyalty, and courage
Always maintain a clean body and mind
Never abuse drugs and get involved with gangs
Always strive to be the best in everything you do
Respect must be shown to all senior students
Support and assistance shall be given to all lower ranked students
Offer your assistance to those in need
Always assist and support your Academy's functions towards our collective goals.
2. Sifus
Assist your master / Sigung whenever possible towards the goals of Chinese Martial-Arts. Train diligently to increase your knowledge and ability levels Assist all students in their advancement. Continued training.
As a Sifu in Chinese Martial-Arts, periodic continued training is necessary to maintain and upgrade your ability levels.
The rank of a 1st Degree Black Sash is a most honored, highly respected position, but it is just the beginning of the study of the complete true original Chinese Martial-Arts.
A Sifu symbolizes modesty, self-sacrifice, honesty, self-respect., integrity, courage, responsibility, and indomitable spirit. It is not the Sash that is upon your waist that matters, it is the person that wears the Sash that makes the difference.
Therefore, you must contribute your selfless devotion to the continued prosperity of those around you, your personal growth, and the growth of our association.
Any individual who has successfully met the requirements and tested for, and received their black sash through the W.I.C.M.A.F.
IV. Membership
1. General Membership Information
Section 1. Eligibility for Membership.
Membership is open to all persons who are interested in and / or involved in Chinese Martial-Arts and who pledge to adhere to the Constitution, By-Laws and ethics of this Federation.
Section 2. Classification of Membership.
There are three classes of membership: Lifetime membership, School membership, Honorary membership
Section 3. Application for Membership
1. A person applying for membership shall submit to the corresponding headquarter all pertinent information.
a. His/her name, address, phone number and current rank in Chinese Martial-Arts.
b. A description of its current Chinese Martial-Arts program.
c. Description of Chinese Martial-Arts background including past and current Sifus, their names, addresses, and ranks.
All applications will be approved by the president !
2. Lifetime Membership.
Anyone who practices the martial-art of Chinese Martial-Arts and / or other similar styles / systems like Hung-Gar,
Mantis, Snake, Choy-Lay-Fut, Tai-Chi, Ba-Gua, Hsing-I, Wing-Chun, Shaolin, Wu-Dang, Shuai-Chiao, etc... is invited to join into the W.I.C.M.A.F..
All memberships shall be open to all individuals adhering to the Constitution, By-Laws and ethics of this organization.
The life member enjoys all the right, duties, responsibilities and privileges of an yearly membership except the payment of annual dues; is
listed by individual name on the roster and receives an individual copy of all mailings.
3. School Membership
All clubs / schools must be licensed and authorized by the W.I.C.M.A.F. International Hdqts. with a certification signed by the Founder/ President.
A minimum of three Sifus must be registered at one school / club for applying the official school certification
5. Honorary Membership
Honorary members are individuals who have distinguished themselves by making notable/significant contributions toward the goals of the W.I.C.M.A.F..
All rules and regulations applying to regular / lifetime membership are in effect for honorary members.
These members are invited to participate in all W.I.C.M.A.F. activities.
Honorary membership shall be awarded by this Federation to individuals in recognition of their distinguished service to the Federation, or for their support of Chinese Martial-Arts within this Federation.
V. General
1. Publications / Works
It is our responsibility to maintain the highest quality control of all publications, Internet work and video productions representing the W.I.C.M.A.F. to the public at large.
All publications / works must be reviewed by the Chi-Dao-Yuan Klaus Schuhmacher prior to release to the public to ensure the accurate portrayal of our cherished arts minimize any misrepresentation maintain accurate historical account maximize the interests of public safety.
Publications/ Works Defined: Any publications, books, manuals, magazines, news, articles, newsletters, periodicals, video recordings, films, movies, audio recordings, training films, cassettes, records, CD's, CD-ROM's, tapes, computer programs, and any printed matter concerning the W.I.C.M.A.F.
1. Students can not make any instructional works
Students can not publish any works without the express written official authorization of the W.I.C.M.A.F.
Failure to comply can result in criminal prosecution.
2. Training at other academies/ clubs
On a visiting basis, you may train at other W.I.C.M.A.F. facilities upon showing the instructor your validated W.I.C.M.A.F. certifications.
3. Rank Promotions (Testing)
As we live in an ever-changing world, it is important to remain with our feet firmly planted on the ground. We must forge an immovable foundation in which our future generations will have the opportunity to feel the power of unity and strength within a family.
Our association is this foundation that will help us realize our collective dreams together as one. Your obligation to the association brings us one step closer to our goals and aspirations. The W.I C.M.A.F. certifications issued to you is the only official document that is recognized by W.I.C.M.A.F. Academies and Clubs showing your active membership status and rank level.
Your certifications are your proof that you are a recognized practitioner Chinese Martial-Arts. If you transfer from one location to another, send in a new application with your new number. In order to test for your 1st Degree Black Sash you must submit copy’s of your student rank certifications, as well as copy’s of all certifications of seminars you attended that were offered and sanctioned by the W.I.C.M.A.F.
The W.I.C.M.A.F. is the only issuing agency for a bona-fide validated W.I.C.M.A.F. certifications. Anyone caught with a forged stamps/signatures or counterfeit passports / membership cards may be liable for prosecution. To actively promote and further disseminate the teachings of this sole source of the martial and healing art of Chinese Martial-Arts to all corners of the globe.
Education: To provide as an educational source , continual instruction in all phases of these multifaceted martial arts, with continued educational opportunities to all its members.
Business Enhancement: To provide for an organizational forum for the exchange of business information; ideas; technical training, and growth techniques to it's professional members.
Civic Duties: To establish a series of information and educational programs to encourage interaction with government, corporate, and community-based organizations from local levels through global interactions to assist in our mutual goals.
Youth Programs: To further develop the leadership qualities of our youth, especially assisting those youngsters designated " at risk" , through the tenets Chinese Martial-Arts. Scholarships: To provide scholarships for those individuals whose needs qualify them to receive such assistance
Protection: To protect the reputation of Chinese Martial-Arts from non-qualified individuals who falsely claim to teach these martial arts for the benefit of the W.I.C.M.A.F. membership and the public at large.
All students are encouraged to test for the next Sash rank promotion upon approval of your Sigung / Sifu.
Testing is an important growth factor and a determining means to judge advancement and individual progress.
01. All students testing for student rank must fulfil the following:
a. Current Membership status in W.I.C.M.A.F. (bring copy’s of your certifications)
d. Complete testing application form
e. Wear clean, complete uniform
f. Bring mandatory sparring equipment
g. Completion of all material for your rank
h. The student is responsible for obtaining a partner for your test
During a testing, parents may not film to photograph their child during the testing, though this is not allowed during black sash testing
02. The Testing Requirements for all master levels include the following:
Copy of W.I.C.M.A.F. membership certificate All official paperwork is to be completed and sent to W.I.C.M.A.F Int. Hdqts. 2 weeks prior to testing (copies of forms attached): -Degree Testing Application
-Black Sash Personal History -W.I.C.M.A.F. Student certifications -Copy’s of Black Sash Certificates -4 recent passport-sized photos
-Photocopy of candidate's Driver's License / Country Passport / Social Security Card or Identification.
All testing is comprised of: Attitude, Respect, Demeanor, Technique (power, speed, position , balance, co-ordination).
Upon the successful completion of your examination, you will be notified of your results, and will be awarded your degree.
4. Teaching
Without certifications to teach, one cannot be called Instructor
VI. Professional categories
1. Sifus Who is an Instructor ?
Anyone who is official authorized and licensed through the W.I.C.M.A.F. to teach any style of Chinese Martial-Arts. Black Sashs without Instructor License are not Sifus.
Everybody who like to apply for instructor certification, must be a W.I.C.M.A.F. certified Black Sash in good standing. Applicants must have registered a minimum of 5 students with the W.I.C.M.A.F. and shall be 18 years of age or older. (Junior Black Sashs are not Sifus !).
In special circumstances a color Sash may act in the capacity of an assistant instructor, but only after receiving written authorization, and certification of license from the W.I.C.M.A.F. International Headquarters.
One of the W.I.C.M.A.F. Sifus duty is to set the example for their students and to allways assist their masters and the W.I.C.M.A.F. whenever possible. W.I.C.M.A.F. Sifus must train diligently to increase their knowledge, ability levels and never act like a sergeant in the military, but like a father to their students.
As a W.I.C.M.A.F. instructor, periodic continued training is necessary to maintain, upgrade the ability levels, currently known techniques must be reviewed and perfected. W.I.C.M.A.F. Sifus must continue their study of new techniques, methods via seminars and continued training.
2. Country or State Headquarters & Representatives
The rules and regulations regarding the country or state headquarters & representatives are set forth below:
The W.I.C.M.A.F. International Hdqts. will award the license of country or state headquarters & representative to only one individual per country / state.
A. Procedures
1. Yearly reporting of activities and special events, seminars / clinics, tournaments
2. Follow up to ensure that all students and Black Sashs under your control are current with their W.I.C.M.A.F. membership obligations.
3. You are responsible for pertinent information regarding W.I.C.M.A.F. to be distributed to your students in a timely manner.
4. Upon receipt of written authorization (State / Province Hdqt. Certificate) from the W.I.C.M.A.F., signed by Grandmaster Schuhmacher, the authorized academy shall use the name of the association in the following manner only: W.I.C.M.A.F. state / province Headquarters.
B. Licensing
The W.I.C.M.A.F. International Hdqts. will award the license of State/ Province Hdqts. to only one Academy location per State / Province.
C. Testing
3. Terminated Members
Any terminated Master/ Grandmaster /Black Sash / Instructor must return all certifications, paperwork to the W.I.C.M.A.F. International Hdqts..
4. Penalties
All rules and regulations regarding students are in effect for Black Sashs / Sifus as well. Penalties may be assessed upon the infringement of any rules and regulations found herein, dependent upon the severity of the infraction.
Offending Black Sash is financially responsible for any and all damages incurred by the W.I.C.M.A.F. International Hdqts., including assessed damages.
If the W.I.C.M.A.F. International Hdqts. deems it necessary to procure the services of an attorney (s) to obtain compliance with a demand to cease any activity and/or an accounting of the finances involved, the offending Black Sash is liable for all attorney's fees and other legal costs incurred by the W.I.C.M.A.F. International Hdqts..
5. Termination
The W.I.C.M.A.F. International Hdqts. reserves the right to retract the representative status and its authorizations, certifications, to instruct at anytime. Reasons for retraction of status and/or authorizations and termination include (but are not limited to):
Conviction of criminal activity, Mental instability
Any actions or series of actions that the W.I.C.M.A.F. International Hdqts. deems as misrepresenting the martial art of Chinese Martial-Arts and / or the W.I.C.M.A.F..
Any action or a series of actions that could prove to be a menace to the public and/or society.
Producing any unauthorized works., Disobedience to their master/ instructor.
6. International Headquarters
The International Headquarters office is currently located at: Klaus Schuhmacher, at Rhoenstr 55, 63071 Offenbach, Germany, Europe. The International Headquarters is wherever the permanent teaching location of the Founder / President is designated. Further responsibilities and duties are as outlined in the attached Rules and Regulations. The country that houses the International Headquarters does not need a separate Country Headquarters.
7. Board of Governors
Section 1. Composition.
The president shall be composed of voting representatives and alternate representatives of each country or state.
Section 2. Responsibility.
Except as otherwise specified in the Articles of Incorporation or the By-Laws, the president shall be vested with all powers of the organization and shall have authority to act on all organizational matters.
Section 3. Jurisdiction.
The president shall have the power to assume original and appellate jurisdiction, upon notice to those involved, in any matter where, the best interests of the organization will be served thereby.
Section 4. Discipline.
The president shall have the power to discipline members and to impose, enforce, or remit penalties for any violation of the Articles of Incorporation of these by-laws, or rules and regulations of this organization.
8. Reporting
Country or state headquarters & representatives must send a yearly report to the Intl. HQ. The report have to include the number of students were joined into the W.I.C.M.A.F. during the last year. Additionally all special events, like demonstrations and tests must be listed.
THE LAWS OF THE W.I.C.M.A.F.
ARTICLE 1
NAME AND JURISDICTION
This organization shall be known as the W.I.C.M.A.F.
The abbreviation of the name shall be W.I.C.M.A.F.
ARTICLE II
PURPOSES AND POWERS
The W.I.C.M.A.F. is intended to be a non-profit organization; the purposes for which it was formed and the powers possessed by it include:
1. To stimulate interest in all Chinese martial arts.
2. To unite people for their mutual education and benefit.
3. To encourage cooperation and better understanding among members.
4. To supervise and conduct clinics, and demonstrations under the auspices of this federation.
5. To research and study martial arts with a view to establishing the highest standards of instruction and conduct.
6. To research and study martial arts in order to better understand its history, philosophy, principles and concepts.
7. To maintain and preserve martial arts records as deemed necessary by the Executive Committee.
8. To publish information about martial arts, including W.I.C.M.A.F. activities.
ARTICLE III
LIMITATIONS
The following limitations are placed on the power of the W.I.C.M.A.F. and upon the liabilities or obligations arising from its activities.
1. The organization shall not discriminate against any person or group because of race, sex, creed, religion, national origin or martial arts affiliation.
2. The organization shall not enter into agreements, contracts or arrangements which bind any school or individual members personally.
3. This federation shall be self-governing, non-profit, non-partisan and non-sectarian.
4. No member or group of members shall be deemed to be acting in any matter for or on behalf of the W.I.C.M.A.F., or as the W.I.C.M.A.F., unless specifically authorized to do so by the Constitution or By-Laws or the W.I.C.M.A.F. international chairman.
ARTICLE IV
MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Eligibility for Membership.
Membership shall be open to all persons who are interested in and/or involved in any martial art and who pledge to adhere to the Constitution, By-Laws and ethics of this organization.
Section 2. Classification of Membership.
There are two classes of membership:
1. Honorary membership
2. Lifetime membership
All memberships shall be open to all individuals adhering to the Constitution, By-Laws and ethics of this organization.
Section 3. Application for Membership. (All applications must be approved by the international chairman !)
1. A person applying for individual membership shall submit to the corresponding headquarter all pertinent information:
a. His/her name, address, phone number and current rank in the martial arts.
b. A description of its current martial art program.
c. Description of martial art background including past and current instructors, their names, addresses, and ranks.
Section 4. Lifetime Membership.
A lifetime member is any individual registered by the headquarters. The life member enjoys all the right, duties, responsibilities and privileges of an individual member; is listed by individual name on the roster and receives an individual copy of all mailings.
Everybody who signed the membership application agrees, that if for any reason his/her life membership status is canceled by this organization, has no right and will not make any claims of a refund any fees payed during his/her period of life membership.
Section 5. Honorary Membership
Honorary membership shall be awarded by this federation to individuals in recognition of their distinguished service to the Federation, or for their support of the martial arts within this federation.
ARTICLE V
ORGANIZATION
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Section 1. Composition. The international chairman shall be composed of voting representatives and alternate representatives of each country or state for a term of two years.
Section 2. Responsibility.
Except as otherwise specified in the Articles of Incorporation or the By-Laws, the international chairman shall be vested with all powers of the organization and shall have authority to act on all organizational matters.
Section 3. Jurisdiction.
The international chairman shall have the power to assume original and appellate jurisdiction, upon notice to those involved, in any matter where, the best interests of the organization will be served thereby.
Section 4. Discipline.
The international chairman shall have the power to discipline members and to impose, enforce, or remit penalties for any violation of the Articles of Incorporation of these by-laws, or rules and regulations of this organization.
ARTICLE VI
MISSION STATEMENT
One of the missions of the W.I.C.M.A.F. is to enhance the martial arts community and it's students through the positive role and personal development skills of the training. If your goal is to be independent and you like-minded instructors to network with, the W.I.C.M.A.F. is for you.
Regardless of style, system or technique that you practise, the W.I.C.M.A.F. realizes that to be a complete martial artist you must constantly evolve.
It is our desire to help, support and encourage Independent Instructor´s, Master´s, Grandmaster´s, Si-Fu´s, Si-Jo´s and Si-Gung´s, from other formal associations or federations.
ARTICLE VII
CHARTER AND BYLAWS
A.) The W.I.C.M.A.F. is an independent organization dedicated to the support of Instructor´s, Master´s, Grandmaster´s, Si-Fu´s, Si-Jo´s and Si-Gung´s of systems and styles with additional focus on:
- Certification of memberhip
- To recognize achievements
- To recognize rank
ARTICLE VIII
LEADERSHIP OF THE W.I.C.M.A.F.
- International chairman since 1995: Si-Jo Klaus Schuhmacher
- The International Council for Higher Martial Arts Education
ARTICLE IX
CERTIFICATIONS
With regard to rank, promotion, Instructorship, certification and System Recognition, the W.I.C.M.A.F. will offer certificates of promotion and rank recognition to all members. There are no Age/Rank Requirements for promotions.