Country flags on bogu...

[IRJ]

Are there rules or etiquette to do with this?

I've noticed people with country flags on men and/or gi, but they were all WKC competitors I think. Does anyone else do this?

[Nishi]

I think the unwritten rule is that you represent your country, or have represented your country, then you can sport that specific flag on your bogu, keogi or zekken.

Truth is i dont think anybody can stop you wearing your countries flag, but you may send mixed signals to others who are becoming used to international competitors who do wear flags.

Then again the Japanese competetors do not wear any flags at all. I'd say wear the flag if you represent your country, or the name of your dojo if you represent them in competition...finally, represent yourself with your own name on your zekken....but if you find a specific flag that helps your men-cut let me know so i can wear it as well...... :D

[kendomushi]

I know several exchange students from the US who are in universities here in Japan doing kendo and several of them wear a US flag on their sleeve but have not "represented" the US in any official capacity outside their university clubs.

[Ares2907]

In Australia, representatives at international level are presented with a zekken that carries the Australian flag. I've not seen anyone with one that hasn't represented at this level. Never seen anyone with the flag on hakama or gi either.
I guess it's kind of like Australian cricketers getting their baggy-green (cap) when they make the test team. It's something to be earned and something to take pride in.

[Fraz]

It's the same here in the UK...