Profile (recorded December 2007, Updated June 2010):

Sensei: Coroline Sly

Grade: Shodan Ho, Provisional Black Belt

Favourite Kata: Sepai

Favourite Technique:Gyaku Tsuki (reverse punch)

Dojo: Colyton, Tuesday 6.00pm - 7.30 pm

Memorable Moments: There is nothing like the electric atmosphere when you run into the arena for a World Cup.  I’ve been fortunate enough to compete in the 2005 event in Sydney and the 2009 event in Melbourne. Since 2006 my family has competed in the Australian Championships and to date we’ve succeeded in bringing home 6 gold medals, 2 silver medals and 3 bronze medals.  I get a real buzz out of competing and watching my children and students having a go.

More recently I had the privilege of attempting my black belt grading and I have to say that I was almost jumping out of my skin with excitement regarding the whole experience.  It was very humbling to receive an enormous amount of support from my senseis, students, family and friends. It was hard to wipe the smile off my face for days afterwards

Words of Wisdom: I was absolutely petrified of sparring.  My sensei told me that I would have to face my fear.  He gave me the best piece of advice I’ve ever received. He told me to step out of my comfort zone and compete in the upcoming tournament.  I took some convincing, but found that I really enjoyed competing and gradually the fear lessened.

If I can achieve my black belt then so can every other student.  It’s important to put in 100% at each and every training session, every lesson is one step closer to your own personal goal