Would it be a bad idea to enter a tournament as an 8th Kyu?

[bushido_man96]

Its never a bad idea to enter a tournament at any rank. Its a great learning experience, and you should be paired with those of similar rank and experience. Go learn and meet new friends.

[ninjanurse]

Start now because if you wait you'll be behind those who didn't!

[pittbullJudoka]

Tournaments are good to let you know what you need to work on. You'll make some friends there too. Don't put too much pressure on yourself to place, just go have fun.

[bushido_man96]

Tournaments are good to let you know what you need to work on. You'll make some friends there too. Don't put too much pressure on yourself to place, just go have fun.

Absolutely.

[sensei8]

On the other hand...

When you sign up, tell them at the registration table about your experience; they will then assign you your division(s). Having said that, I'd only do that if my Sensei wasn't available in both attendance as well as in advice/instructions as to what I should do.