Instructor Interview

How did you first get into Karate? At What age did you start training?
My Dad was Chief Instructor at Woodlane Ishinryu Karate club. He introduced me to training at age six.


Who do you look up to in Karate? Who do you think sets a good example of what a true Karateka should be?
My Dad and my sisters inspired me from a young age. They were all instructors when I started training and they influenced me a lot growing up.


Who have been your biggest influences in Karate over the years?
Sensei Ticky Donovan has always been someone I have looked up to in karate - he is what a true Karateka should be.


What do you consider your main acheivements in in your karate career so far?
Competing and winning in competitions. Getting my Black Belt was a big acheivement for me.  Today it's being able to teach others what I have learnt.


What about the future? What karate ambitions do you have moving forward?
I am proud to be involved with the Dragons club which is making such great progress. I look forward to passing on my knowledge on to a new generation of Karateka.


What is your attitude to teaching? What teaching techniques do you think work best?
I think you must enjoy teaching and make it enjoyable for the students. But the training must always be disciplined. When teaching it is very important to be thorough and make sure each student understands what they are doing.

What advice would you give to someone considering taking up karate?
If you are interested in Karate the Woodlane and Collier Row Dojos are the ideal places to learn. You will gain new skills and techniques in self defense. Just as importantly, you will learn respect and discipline and you will keep fit. If these are goals you would like to acheive (or see your children reach) then Karate training is for you.


Ishinryu training has taken place for Woodlane for many years. Why has Woodlane thrived so long while other clubs have come and gone? What's special about this club?
It's the Instructors and the way they run the club. Our Instructors set very high standards for their students - that's what gets good results.