2023 was an exceptional year for our organization. We saw unprecedented attendance at tournaments and numerous schools reached their highest enrollment ever, giving us plenty of reasons to celebrate.

In 2020, we initiated a collaboration with the Master's Council to standardize awards both regionally and internationally. This initiative has enabled us to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of many unsung leaders within the ATA.

• Regional Appreciation Award: Given to someone who selflessly donates their time and attention to supporting their region based on participation at camps, tournaments, etc. This individual leads cheerfully, uplifting his/her fellow students, instructors, and licensees. There are no rank or station requirements for this award and could even be given to a dedicated parent. The award will be the traditional white and silver ribbon pin.
• Black Belt of the Year: Given to an adult black belt at least 1BD in rank that demonstrates the outstanding qualities we all desire our black belt students to exhibit. These qualities include participating in most regional events, giving 100% while physically training, and being a living example of the Spirit of Songahm. There are no collar or station requirements for this award, however, it is recommended that this award is given to a 1st-5th degree black belt based on their performance as a black belt student, not an instructor. The regional award will be the original, solid black ribbon pin.
• Jr. Black Belt of the Year: Given to a jr. black belt at least 1BD in rank, age 17 and under, who demonstrates the outstanding qualities we all desire our black belt students to exhibit. These qualities include participating in most regional events, giving 100% while physically training, and being a living example of the Spirit of Songahm. There are no collar or station requirements for this award, however, it is recommended that this award is given to a 1st-3rd degree black belt based on their performance as a black belt student, not an instructor. The regional award will be the original black with r/w/b stripe ribbon pin.
• Instructor of the Year: Given to a certified instructor based upon their leadership as an instructor and participation in the region. The individual receiving this award should participate in most regional events, support tournaments by bringing students and as a judge, and encourage their students to participate in regional events all while embodying the Spirit of Songahm. We believe it should go without saying, that the recipient should teach classes every week, either directly to students or their staff, rather than just serving in a licensee capacity. The regional award will be the black with 1 red stripe ribbon pin formerly given to regional trainee instructor of the Year.

We are honored to recognize those amongst us who worked so hard last year. Congratulations to the 2023 Regional Award winners!