The International Hosharafu Federation (IHF) was officially established in 2009 in the United States of America under the visionary leadership of Grand Master Jack Stern, a highly respected figure in the global martial arts community. The federation was created with the goal of unifying practitioners of Hosharafu, a unique martial art system that blends techniques from traditional and modern martial arts, with an emphasis on self-defense and personal growth.
Vision and Mission:
The IHF’s mission is to provide structured training in Hosharafu, focusing on real-world self-defense, physical conditioning, and mental discipline. The federation promotes a philosophy that integrates martial arts training with personal development, emphasizing respect, discipline, and mastery. Through its curriculum, the IHF seeks to create a global community of martial artists who are not only skilled fighters but also embody the virtues of humility, respect, and leadership.
Martial Art System:
Hosharafu, the core of the federation’s teaching, is an eclectic system that draws from multiple martial arts disciplines, including:
- Free Style Grappling for Ground Fight and Grappling,
- Free Style Striking for stand-up combat,
- Self Defense for Street Fight and Reality based Techniques,
- Forms/Weapons for demonstration in the tournaments.
Hosharafu is designed to be practical and adaptable, offering self-defense techniques that are applicable in a wide range of real-world situations. The art is grounded in both traditional martial arts practices and modern self-defense strategies, making it a well-rounded system for practitioners of all levels.
Leadership and Development:
Grand Master Jack Stern brings decades of martial arts experience to the federation, ensuring that its training standards are both rigorous and inclusive. His leadership has attracted martial artists from around the world, helping the federation to expand its reach through affiliated schools, seminars, and certification programs. Master Stern’s vision for the IHF is to nurture not only world-class fighters but also individuals who can serve as role models and leaders in their communities.
Global Outreach and Competitions:
Since its founding, the IHF has expanded internationally, with member schools and practitioners in various countries. The federation organizes international seminars, training camps, and competitions, providing a platform for martial artists to showcase their skills and learn from each other. These events are integral to the federation’s mission of promoting cultural exchange and friendship through martial arts.
Additionally, the IHF oversees a grading system that allows students to progress through ranks based on their skills, dedication, and understanding of martial arts principles. Each rank is awarded after rigorous testing, ensuring that practitioners maintain high standards of excellence.
Values and Philosophy:
At the heart of the International Hosharafu Federation is the belief that martial arts should be a tool for both self-defense and self-improvement. The core values of the federation include:
- Respect: For oneself, for others, and for the traditions of martial arts.
- Discipline: In training, lifestyle, and in the application of martial techniques.
- Perseverance: Overcoming obstacles in both martial arts and personal development.
- Community: Building a global family of martial artists who support and learn from one another.
The IHF encourages students to not only develop their physical abilities but also to cultivate mental fortitude and a positive attitude, enabling them to lead successful and balanced lives.
Future Goals:
As the International Hosharafu Federation continues to grow, its goals include:
- Expanding its international presence by establishing more affiliated schools across the world.
- Developing new training programs and resources to accommodate martial artists of all ages and abilities.
- Hosting more global competitions and seminars, promoting international collaboration within the martial arts community.
- Upholding the tradition of self-defense while adapting to modern challenges and the evolving landscape of martial arts.
Under the guidance of Grand Master Jack Stern, the IHF remains committed to fostering a global community of martial artists who are skilled, disciplined, and dedicated to the betterment of both themselves and society.
