Over the years many Krav Maga organizations asked us to join their ranks, even offering leading roles within their organizations. We always politely declined since we didn't think our interests, and more importantly: our values, would be maintained.
With that said, we are extremely proud to announce our new affiliation with a brand new Krav Maga organization: Ultimate Krav Maga! The new organization is officially under the direction of Grand Master Yaron Hanover, a Krav Maga and martial arts expert in Israel. In addition, the organization includes three more founding members: Guy Rafaeli, which our members are familiar with as he taught at Masada several times, Mr. Marcin Michalik-Lipka from Poland, and yours truly.
So why did we choose to join in with this organization? So glad you asked.
First and foremost, it is an authentic Israeli organization, which maintains its ties to the evolution of self-defense and tactics as taught to Israeli military, police and security services today...not three decades ago. It is updated, relevant, and true. In addition, we will have input, which means that Israeli Combat System as taught at Masada Tactical will be integrated and influence the curriculum of UKM.
Being part of UKM is exciting to us because we can officially solidify our ties to a true Israeli system. Our instructors and students will be recognized by the Wingate Institute in Israel and receive their diplomas from there, making them recognizable by the Israeli Ministry of Education! Our Black Belts will be tested in Israel, further making their certificates globally accepted and recognized. And, we are now a part of a worldwide system which includes Israel, the USA and Europe.
As Masada Tactical members you should expect to see little changes. Our curriculum will stay intact, and as we consolidate our system with UKM we will be introducing new, updated, and state of the art skills that all of our members will benefit from. All of our members will retain their ranks! So no worries there :). You can all still wear our shirts and logos. Be proud of having the originals of what became part of UKM! And lastly, you should expect to see more of our friends from around the world teaching at Masada, as well as other schools within the USA joining our ranks.
You should congratulate yourself for being a part of the new generation of Krav Maga! You can forever consider yourself a part of this exciting new venture!
If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to see me personally. We are excited for things to come and looking forward to sharing all of them with you.
As always, stay safe!
Tzviel 'BK' Blankchtein
Masada Tactical
(Ultimate Krav Maga)
