UCA Rank System
Our System
The UCA rank system follows the most widely recognized system which is refered to as the Confederação Brasileira de Capoeira (Brazilian Capoeira Confederation) system.This system is derived from the colors of the Brazilian flag. The lowest ranks being associated with the outermost regions of the flag “green” and the highst ranks being associated with the innermost regions of the flag, “white”
Alunos (Students)
The ranks of student have 3 main levels. Novice, intermediate, and advance. in between each of these stages there are also several intermediary ranks that are designated to show a students progress towards the next stage in their training. This is typically shown through a combination of the colors designated to each main stage with each becoming more difficult with the progression of the path.
Novice (1 year +)
Green or “Verde” is the official first cordão given to the student when initiated or baptised into the world of Capoeira. Verde is expected to know basic foundations of capoeira.
Intermediate (3-5 years +)
The INTERMEDIATE stage is symbolized by the yellow or “amarelo” cordão. One has shown continuing appreciation for Capoeira, the game and themselves. Amarelo should demonstrate a basic understanding of the capoeira game and capoeirista is expected to know all basic and some advanced movements.
Advance (7 years +)
Once a practitioner reaches the ADVANCED stage of blue / “AZUL” there is also a secondary title that one may be bestowed with of “monitor”. At this level one begins learning how to teach. Azul is expected to fully incorporate a large variety of advanced movements, combinations and take downs in the capoeira game. They have a large repertoire of songs and can play any instrument. The student has had some experience teaching under supervision and has shown improvement in his/her game and teaching style. In order to gain teaching experience, he/she assists their own mestre in conducting classes, teaching music etc.
Professor (Teacher)
This place in ones path is that which one has proven their commitment to furthering the art of capoeira and to spreading the culture to others effectively and accurately. At this point a capoeirista is no longer under the tutelage of an instructor and is able to lead their own school. Providing an exemplary model for others to follow and emulate. This instructor level is one that is well versed in all aspects of the art, the flowing technique, the martial fighting aspect, the musical heritage, and the cultural significance of the philosophies and historical information that has paved the way for the modern capoeira of the day.
Contramestre
Contramestre are not only some of the most important figures in their group, but in the world of capoeria itself. They are the right hand of their masters, and are so esteemed and honored that, even at this level, they are respected as masters. Formidable players in the roda, contramestre can seamlessly combine all of their skills into a fierce and relentless game.
Mestre
Mestre is a traditional and valued title attributed to some capoeira teachers.
To become a mestre, the capoeirista must have a long career teaching capoeira and satisfy the following requirements:
– Must be indicated to the title by a recognized and well known teacher.
– Must be recognized by an official confederation of capoeira in Brazil such as the Confederação Brasileira de Capoeira.
– More than anything else, must have the popular recognition as a mestre and unanimous acceptance as such by the traditional masters of the art.
