WAIVER OF LIABILITY AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT

Kogetsukai, NFP General Participation Waiver and Release of Liability

Version: 1.0
Effective Date: March 1, 2026
Organization: Kogetsukai, NFP

Scope: This Waiver applies to all Kogetsukai classes, seminars, workshops, demonstrations, special events, and related activities organized, sponsored, or conducted by Kogetsukai, NFP.

I, the undersigned participant ("Participant"), acknowledge that I am voluntarily participating in classes, seminars, workshops, demonstrations, special events, or other activities organized, sponsored, or conducted by Kogetsukai, NFP ("Activities").

1. Assumption of Risk

I understand that participation in traditional Japanese martial arts and related cultural activities—including, but not limited to, Iaido, Kenjutsu, Jodo, Gekiken, Tameshigiri, Zazen, and similar training—involves inherent risks, including physical injury, illness, property damage, permanent disability, or death. I knowingly and voluntarily assume all such risks, whether known or unknown.

2. Release and Waiver of Liability

In consideration for being permitted to participate, I hereby RELEASE, WAIVE, DISCHARGE, AND COVENANT NOT TO SUE Kogetsukai, NFP; its directors, officers, instructors (including guest instructors), assistant instructors, volunteers, agents, employees, representatives, affiliated organizations, hosting facilities, property owners, and governing organizations from any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, or expenses arising from my participation, WHETHER CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE, to the fullest extent permitted by Illinois law.

3. Indemnification

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Releasees from any loss, liability, damage, cost, or expense, including reasonable attorney's fees, arising from my participation in the Activities.

4. Medical Responsibility

I understand that Kogetsukai does not provide medical or accident insurance. I certify that I am physically capable of participating, or that I have disclosed any condition that may affect safe participation. I accept responsibility for my own medical care and insurance.

5. Participant Conduct

I agree to follow all safety rules, dojo etiquette, instructor directions, and organizational policies established by Kogetsukai. Failure to do so may result in removal from participation.

6. Photography and Media

Photographs, video, or audio recordings may be taken during Activities for educational, historical, promotional, or nonprofit communication purposes. I understand my likeness may appear in such materials unless I notify Kogetsukai in writing before participating.

7. Minors

Participants under eighteen (18) years of age must have this Waiver completed by a parent or legal guardian, who agrees to its terms on behalf of both the minor Participant and themselves.

8. Governing Law and Severability

This Waiver is governed by the laws of the State of Illinois. If any provision is held unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. This Waiver is binding upon me, my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns.

9. Acknowledgment and Electronic Signature

By submitting this form electronically, I certify that I have carefully read and understand this Waiver, that I voluntarily agree to its terms, that I understand I am waiving certain legal rights, and that my electronic acknowledgment constitutes my legal signature with the same force and effect as a handwritten signature.