What is a Soke?

A Soke (pronounced So Kay) is the head of a martial arts system or style. The translation “headmaster”, or “head of the family.” It means one who is the leader of a style. It is the highest-level Japanese title referring to the singular leader of a martial arts style. A Soke is the ultimate authority in a style, and has final discretion over promotions, policy, curriculum, ranking structure, disciplinary actions, doctrine in the style and can issue special licenses, and award special titles within the style. A Soke has the power to promote and credential all students up to and including the highest level of the system (in many systems the highest-level would-be 10th degree black belt). Many styles have a board of Grandmasters that oversee the style. A Soke, within his style, has the power of a board of Grandmasters.

A Soke may appoint an assistant Soke and can specify the powers of that office. The assistant shall assume the title of Soke in cases of permanent incapacity or death, or by letter of transfer by the Soke to the assistant.