Profile (recorded Nov 2004 - updated Dec-07):

Sensei: Colin Kennedy

Grade: 1st Dan

Favourite Kata: Sepai

Favourite Technique: Yoko ura uchi, Yoko gere (side kick)

Dojo: Cambridge Park, Monday

During my 3 years of instructing the most rewarding aspect for me is watching my students reach their goals and develop a good attitude and understanding towards their training.

Memorable Moment: There are many memorable moments for me, but I have two that stand out the most. Recently I had the privilege of sparring Kancho Sullivan on his last visit to my home Dojo (Cambridge Park) in front of fellow students and instructors from region 2. I have also been lucky enough to spar Shihan Stacey on a previous visit. It has been an honor to spar the two most senior members of GKR.

Words of Wisdom: What I like to tell my students is the difference between a white belt and a black belt is that that the black belt started and the attitude he/she has developed, so if you develop the right attitude the only thing holding you back from your goal is time and patience!

Turning Negatives into Positives Article:
While I believe openness is a great quality, especially in Karate, criticism can be hard to swallow for some. Things that are often said to us, either from sensei to student (especially during training), parents to children, bosses to employees, might upset you, criticism can be a valuable asset. Certain comments may leave you feeling like your not good enough, and often make you wanna quit. Don’t be crushed. Instead, welcome feedback and encourage more. Listen and take on board what’s been said and fix it. Make it a challenge for yourself! Actually there’s nothing better from a sensei’s point of view, a student fixing what has been a problem with their training, after receiving critical or negative feedback. It shows your trying and willing to fix it. Although praise is good, and we all love to be praised, there will be times in life where we will hear constructive criticism. For example during training you may hear “ your not giving 100% tonight” or “no that’s all wrong”. Instead of being hurt , ask your sensei at the end of class, “how can I fix it?” “how can I improve?” Then you’ve already turned something negative into a positive. Keep up the hard work and challenge yourself each and every time you enter the dojo. Tell yourself your not going to let comments get to you, but instead you’ll train that little bit harder and learn that little bit more.
Sensei Colin