Founded in 2004, NEIMAA was formed by Master Michael Smith. Master Smith currently holds 3 masters belts, a 7th Dan in the Traditional arts and a 5th Dan in full contact Tae Kwon Do. He is also the owner of Central Maine Karate.
Under Master Smith's direction, NEIMAA was formed to allow independent martial arts schools in the New England area a unique opportunity to belong to a local organization. NEIMAA was designed with the independent school in mind, giving them an opportunity to further promote martial arts within various forms of instruction and curriculum.
Schools in the Northeast, New England, and especially Maine, which are not currently affiliated with, nor have the backing of a larger entity, will have the opportunity to become part of a greater group. NEIMAA is a diverse body of martial arts instructors, similar to other national or world based organizations, which would benefit greatly through membership.
NEIMAA recognizes the validity and importance of all martial arts, and is dedicated to ensuring that ethical standards of instruction are carried out in order to promote the best qualities of the sport.
Unlike many other martial arts associations, NEIMAA allows the flexibility for any member school or instructor to train under their own set course or curriculum, if they so choose, without undue influence from the head organization. NEIMAA does require an application and a copy of the requesting school's curriculum and belt rank requirements prior to acceptance.
One of the most important aspects of NEIMAA is that it consists of local schools in the northeast or New England Area. Even as more schools join, the instructors are still familiar faces, friends who have grown with and amongst each other through their various styles of martial arts.
NEIMAA recognizes the importance of input and opinions from each school representative, and includes them in the decision making process of the organization.
- A local resource for questions, advice, or counsel.
- The backing of other certified instructors in various styles.
- Advancement of technique and/or materials taught through various and shared knowledge.
- Promotional (Dan) advancement through the organization, upon acceptance by the Executive Board, for members only.(for a reasonable fee)
- Affordable seminars at your location by affiliated member schools or instructors.
- Assistance in hosting and/or running tournaments.
- Vast life experiences of other schools and instructors to help make your school a financial and curriculum based success.
- Information on tournaments within your state or area.
- Assistance in running promotional tests (currently only offered at the time within the state of Maine), for a reasonable fee.
- Black belt registry on the NEIMAA website.
- Your school's link added to the NEIMAA website.
- Certificate of Acceptance awarded to your school to proudly display in your training area.
- Quick response to questions, needs, or concerns.
For more information, please contact:
Email Master Smith
Or write to:
N.E.I.M.A.A.
c/o Master M. Smith
P.O. Box 231
Corinth, Maine 04427