Tournament Finalist, AKF (Qld) Kumite (Seniors) Shunpukan Dojo Kumite Champion 2006

My interest in teaching Karate is perhaps twofold in broad terms. Firstly, the imparting of information to those seeking knowledge and development and comprehension that the knowledge given is valued gives the pleasure of sharing. Secondly, the development of my own knowledge of karate as I am exposed to the differences between students (and us all) both physiological and psychological, and the challenge of clear communication of ideas.

I train for self improvement and to help others. The more I learn about Karate, the more I realise there is to learn and understand. The systems of learning I have learnt under Shihan Keleher I have been able to also apply when teaching my apprentices.

Competitor in Kyu grade tournaments in the 1980s

It’s exciting to see someone learn and to know that you helped them. The process builds respect between the instructor and the student. Teaching helps my own training – it improves my understanding of why we do things as well as how.

AKF State Judge – 2001 to 2008

Teaching to me develops rewards, not just for the student, but for myself. Most teaching opportunities leave me with an intense feeling of success. It is rewarding to be able to show someone a new technique or to be able to develop that technique to a higher standard. My focus is on that student’s development and living in the present; whilst having some mindset for their future improvement. My reward is then realised when the student shows improvement and/or success in the activity. Teaching also allows an opportunity for me to develop a better understanding of the subject. In order to be able to show someone something new, you must first have more than a reasonable understanding of the whole concept, followed by activity development, which means I have to think about the delivery to the particular student. The various learning styles are then integrated for the best delivery.

I enjoy seeing people developing themselves. One of Shihan’s sayings: He rises highest who helps another up. I also believe in giving back something to any person or organisation that supports me. Coaching clarifies questions and issues I may have myself and provides me with the satisfaction of helping others.

Competed in both Kata and Kumite at a local, state and national level as a junior from 1992 to early 2000s.
Multiple times state champion for age.

It’s a great pleasure to give back to an organisation that played an integral role in my development as a child and teenager. The building of self-discipline and adherence to etiquette that is emphasised in the Club has benefited me as much, if not more, than the fitness and self-defence skills that are inherent to Karate. I enjoy helping students learn in a framework that develops their physical skills and mental strength.

Participated in competition in Japan as well as club competitions. Previous table official experience.

Karate helps to promote development of the mind, body and spirit through the development of self discipline and respect for self and others. The karate practitioner developers skills in situation awareness and self defense strategies to promote confidence and self development.

Table Official

The children’s classes are great fun. The kids are enthusiastic about learning karate and it’s great to see them achieving their goals. Teaching has helped me to get a better understanding of karate.

8 years of local and state level completions participation and placing in most
6 years of Australian national competition participation and placing
Most recently the 2019 Australian National Competition in Tasmania placing third in the kumite team event, and participation in the Under 75kg senior and senior open event.

I feel every one should learn a self defence martial art whether it is for fitness or sport. Karate has also helped me to become more confident and mature as a person – much of what we learn can be applied to every day life.

Teaching helps me learn. I believe that the best way to ensure that you know something, is to be able to demonstrate and explain it to someone else. Karate for children and adults goes beyond a sport and teaches life skills that are extremely valuable for young people in particular. It is very rewarding to be involved as an instructor and see children develop.

There are two reasons for my enjoying teaching karate. First, it is rewarding to see others develop their karate skills and develop as an individual. The second is that I learn a great deal about the basics which adds to my understanding of karate and helps me develop my own practice.