What have you enjoyed most about training at AAMA?
The encouraging coaches and environment around the dojo. Everyone supports each other, and leaves a positive attitude around the sport.
What have you noticed as the main benefit of training at AAMA?
The experienced coaches provide every opportunity for the students to succeed in the sort whether it’s through competition or personal goals and athleticism.
Why did your parents choose AAMA?
AAMA’s volunteer based program is a direct reflection of everyone’s dedication and love for the club. The coaches who are teaching you are there only because they care.
What have your children enjoyed most about karate at AAMA?
What my kids have enjoyed most about AAMA is the mentorship from the Sensei and Sempais. Their knowledge and dedication to teaching have been invaluable, and the life lessons they’ve shared have made a lasting impact on my their growth, both in karate and in life.
What has been the biggest change you have seen in your children since joining AAMA?
Karate has instilled in them a sense of discipline and focus that carries over into all areas of their lives. They’ve really learned the importance of respect — both for themselves and for the people around them. It’s been amazing to watch them grow in these areas, and I truly believe AAMA has played a huge role in shaping them into the confident, driven individuals they are today.
Why did you choose AAMA for your children?
Zac started training in 2008 and Tahlia and Josh started in 2012.
We initially chose AAMA purely because of its location — it was close to home and seemed like a convenient choice at the time. But what we didn’t realise then was just how much more it would become to our family. AAMA has turned into so much more than just a karate club; it’s a welcoming community that has become an essential part of our lives. The support, friendships, and growth we’ve experienced here have truly exceeded our expectations, and we’re so grateful for the unexpected but amazing journey we’ve had with AAMA.
What has your children enjoyed most about karate at AAMA?
Structure, patience, learning complex routines and gaining confidence with executing correct movements and sequences.
What has been the biggest change you have seen in your children since joining AAMA?
Learning to listen, and to be patient.
Why did you choose AAMA for your children?
The exceptional leadership and support from all the instructors and community. The structure and teaching of respect.
My husband and I have always had in the back of our minds that when our children were old enough we would enrol them in karate. We had an awareness of the karate philosophy – the discipline, respect and physical components – and for this and the practicality and potential longevity of karate as a “sport for life”, karate was attractive to us. Whilst my son eventually stopped training after more than 5 years, my daughter Kate is still training several times a week, has entered tournaments for many years and as a family we have had the joy of seeing her represent Queensland for three years at the national tournament.
A week after the children started at the age of 41, I also decided to join even though it was a long way out of my comfort. I had been searching for a way of staying active that was constantly challenging and enjoyable but that also accommodated my ongoing rehabilitation after major surgery. It was encouraging to see students at the dojo from a very wide age group. I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The timing of training sessions suited our family life. Importantly though, I can see this as a physical and mental activity I will be able to participate in for a long time to come, and of course I have the added benefit now of training with my daughter. AAMA has become like an extended family to us.