My Journey…
From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the art of karate. At the tender age of 13, I embarked on my karate journey, delving into the intricacies of Shorin-Ryu. My thirst for knowledge led me to explore other karate styles: Goju-Ryu, Shito-Ryu, Shotokan, and Ryuei-Ryu.
Teaching has always been an integral part of my karate journey. At the age of 14, I began instructing beginner children at my dojo, finding immense fulfillment in sharing my knowledge and passion with others. Teaching not only enhanced my own understanding of karate but also ignited a burning desire to nurture the next generation of karate enthusiasts.
At 15, I stepped into competition, testing my skills against other karate practitioners in Hampton, VA. For the next three years, I honed my craft, competing in local tournaments throughout Virginia. At 18, a pivotal moment arrived when I achieved my black belt (Shodan), propelling me into the advanced adult division and opening doors to international competitions.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of traveling to Slovenia, Italy, Romania, and Hungary to compete in world championships, showcasing my karate prowess on a global stage. Additionally, I’ve extensively explored the United States, immersing myself in the diverse karate communities across the nation.
My unwavering commitment to authenticity has led me to Okinawa on multiple occasions, where I’ve trained under the guidance of the president of my association, the Shorinkan. These experiences have been instrumental in preserving the traditional essence of karate, ensuring that my practice remains true to its roots.
Teaching is my true calling. While I actively contribute to my dojo, my aspirations extend beyond its walls. I yearn to empower aspiring karate practitioners, guiding them on their journeys towards self-improvement and excellence.
Unlike some coaches who closely guard their knowledge, I embrace a philosophy of transparency. I believe that sharing my insights can elevate the next generation of karate students and athletes, propelling them to heights beyond my own. This unwavering commitment to fostering growth and excellence is the driving force behind my passion for teaching karate.