Profile (recorded Nov 2004 - updated Dec-07 - updated June 2010):

Sensei: Colin Kennedy

Grade: Ni Dan Black Belt

Favourite Kata: Saifa

Favourite Technique: Back Fist

Dojo: Cambridge Park 6.30 - 8.00pm, Monday

Memorable Moment: Preparation for my Ni Dan Grading, training with Shihan Stacey.

Words of Wisdom: I can't really say anything that hasn't already been said from other intructors in the other profiles. Just enjoy your training, it is your hobby, don't treat it like a chore.

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