Sensei Stan Herum
Picture this: the Anza gym training room becomes a karate dojo. The room is full of students, all lined up by current rank: White, Orange, Green, Purple, Brown, and Black belts. A figure stands at the front of the class. He is the representation of calm and strength as he leads his class. This is Sensei Stan Herum, a Quail Creek resident and guide of the karate path at the Quail Creek Dojo in the Anza gym. Sensei Herum is a 4th degree Black belt in ASAI/Shotokan Karate and head of the Quail Creek Dojo.
But what does sensei mean? The term sensei is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and tradition, and its application extends beyond martial arts. Translated, sensei means one who was born before, implying a person who has walked the path of life and gained wisdom and experience before others. Sensei is more than just a teacher. It is a title of deep respect and an honor given to someone who has mastered their craft and can guide others on the same path. The term sensei summarizes the qualities of leadership, knowledge, and respect for the martial art form and those they teach.
Sensei Herum started his karate path in Santa Cruz, Calif. Originally, he was learning Tan Soo Do, a Korean style of karate. He earned his 1st degree Black belt (known as Shodan) in 1982. Later, he changed his karate style to Shotokan. He moved to Grass Valley, Calif., and trained in Auburn, Calif., with the International Karate Association. He was awarded his 1st degree Black belt (Shodan) in April 1987. After moving to Santa Rosa, Calif., he trained with the International Shotokan Karate Association and was awarded a 1st degree Black belt (Shodan) in December 2000. Returning to Grass Valley and training with the Asai Shotokan Association International (ASAI) at the Sierra Shotokan Dojo in 2008, he was promoted to 2nd level Black belt (Nidan) in March 2012. He earned his 3rd degree Black belt (Sandan) in July 2015, and his 4th degree Black belt (Yondan) in November of 2022 in Quail Creek.
A sensei is a leadership position, serving others selflessly. Sensei Herum ensures safety during training and instills students with confidence. He is humble, patient, and caring while fostering an environment where all can succeed, no matter any physical/mental disabilities. Everyone within the dojo is treated with respect and displays an honorable attitude. Becoming a sensei is not a journey taken lightly. It is a path marked by dedication, discipline, and a deep understanding of the art of karate. The title sensei is not simply handed out. It is earned through years of rigorous training, continuous learning, and a commitment to mastering the art. It involves instilling respect, discipline, and perseverance within students.
Would you like to give karate a try? Stop by and watch or participate. Classes are 4 to 6 p.m. Mondays/Tuesdays, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, and 2 to 4 p.m. Fridays.