Greenville American Jiujitsu Patch

“Shin Tai Ichi Dojo”

School patches in American Jiujitsu have an important significance. They define where you come from, who instructs you, and the impetus behind your training. The symbolism of our patch is explained in detail below. 

The most obvious visual representation is that of the American flag – this represents not only the “American” in AJJ, but also the pride we have in our country and our heritage.  Behind this flag is the large red sun, symbolizing the Japanese flag.  Japan is called the “Land of the Rising Sun” and its flag depicts a single red circle on a white background.  This circle has other meanings within the patch as well.  A red circle centered at the top of another larger circle represents the Japanese concept of duality.  You might recognize the Chinese “YinYang” symbol, and this is it’s counterpart in Japan the “InYo”.  Jiujitsu defines duality in many ways, hard and soft, strong and pliable, and mental and physical.  The Japanese writing (called “kanji” ) on the left side of the patch says “Jiujitsu”, which means “The Gentle Art”. 

The kanji on the right hand side says Shin Tai Ichi – the name of the dojo.  These words are the heart of our school.  “Shin Tai Ichi” means “Mind Body Unification”.  The reason we train is to attain this lofty goal – when our mind, spirit, and body move and flow as one: when our inner self is on the same rhythm as our outer self.  We are in harmony when we attain this unification.  The final meaning of this patch is the path running up the middle.  The path sets before you, it winds, and continues, towards the sun and through the mountains.  This is the warrior’s path, with ups and downs, good times and bad.  We all walk a path in this life, it is up to you which one to choose.  We hope you choose wisely. 

Domo arigato mas.