Matty is a physically active 6 years old who LOVES his karate classes. He started in the Koi program when he was 3 and has been progressing ever since. Sensei Steve?s dedication to developing strong, independent kids through building character is the main reason.

Both the Koi and Tiger programs have increased Matty?s self-esteem and self-confidence. No longer is he uncomfortable with people he does not know very well or in front of a large group as displayed by his recent performance in his school?s variety show. Matty was 1 of 38 acts and 1 of only 2 kindergarteners in the show.

Karate will continue to be an important part of Matty?s development helping to shape him into a conscientious person and leader.

Sue

Sensei,

I have been wanting to write to you to tell you all the things I like about your Koi karate class that my son attends, but there are so many things that are great about it and I have been having trouble figuring out where to begin. :)

But, finally, I think I can sum everything up. Obviously, karate is a great exercise for the body and it is also a wonderful way to learn things like self-control and patience. You are fantastic with these kids in helping them learn karate and all that it entails. On top of that, the one thing I think I like the best about you and your class is that everything is so positive. If the children are not behaving, they are not yelled at or shamed or emotionally beaten down, instead they are gently reminded of what they should be doing and then, given the chance to do it. And with this positive encouragement, the chlidren correct their own behavior and do what they are supposed to be doing. That is a fantastic atmosphere in which to learn!

Also, I totally appreciate your perspective on the child as a whole. Again, it goes back to the positive atmosphere you have created in the dojo. You often see traits in a child that others (including parents) might consider to be negative, but you see the positive potential in them. An example I saw was when a child was constantly interrupting you. Most parents would have cringed and many adults would have snapped at the child. You were very patient, reminded the child that he needed to listen and he did. But afterward, you explained to his parent that this child has leadership ability and his interrupting was a demonstration of that. It was like the light bulb went on in my head! We, as parents, spend so much time trying to stop our kids here and now from doing what is considered to be negative behavior, that we don't often look to see what that might lead to in the future. A child who interrupts constantly could be facing some big troubles down the road, but if that child's ability to lead is recognized and then that child is trained in how to properly use that ability, then there is no telling what possibilities await this child down the road. I love that you have that perspective and that you have given me that perspective as well!

My son is learning a lot from you, but I am learning a lot as well!

Thank you!
Barbara Penhalegon

Testimonial from an adult student.

Sensei Steve,

Thank you for providing me Karate instruction that is unparalleled in its excellence and effectiveness. A year and a half ago at the age of 37 I began to realize my life long dream of becoming a true martial artist. Thanks to the training I receive at the South West Karate & Aikido Dojo, I have dramatically increased my strength and stamina while losing over 25lbs.

More importantly, the teachings you hand down from Shotokan Karate’s founder Master Gichin Funakoshi strengthen and calm my spirit, allowing me to be happier and more productive in my personal and professional life. Your passion for martial arts is wonderfully contagious. Karate is an amazing Art that increases Physical, Mental and Spiritual power. I look forward to years of training and the realization of a dream.

Respectfully,
Craig Brashers
Construction Manager

Subject: Great testimonial for the B-day parties

Dear Sensei Steve,

My son had been taking classes with you at the dojo for almost three months and his 5th birthday was coming up. We wanted to do something special for "Number 5" and you said he could have the party at the dojo. You promised to give us a party that we would never forget and that you would make our son a "superstar" at the party. You certainly kept your promises!

There were so many things that made this party special and truly unforgettable. We had 12 boys between the ages of 3 and 5 at the party and you were wonderful with them. You had so many great activities planned for them. I know a favorite was the Tug-Of-War and of course, the chance to spar with you and the coaches was something everyone enjoyed.

Every parent likes to see their child shine and you allowed our son to do that. You had him demonstrate some of the karate moves he had learned in your classes, as well as allowed him to help lead some of the activities. And the crowning moment was when he got to cut his birthday cake with a real samurai sword! I don't think anything could have topped that!

I also liked how you demonstrated to the boys the difference between rude and respectful behavior and how you encouraged them not to show violent behavior towards each other.

The parents of our party guests really enjoyed the party as well. I continue to hear what a "fantastic!" or "great!" or "fun!" party it was.

You really do have a way of connecting with children. From the most boisterous boy at our party to the shyest...they listened to you, they learned from you and they had fun with you. It was a great party for them as well as for our son.

We would like to thank you, Coach Armand, Coach John and Kana for all your hard work. It was the best birthday party ever!

Barbara and John Penhalegon