I began my original martial arts journey with my father training in TaeKwon-Do from the age of 6 until 11. From 1976-1986 I trained under Kyoshi Santo Amenta at Amenta Dojo’s in Lalor from which I achieved a Junior 2nd Degree rank. In 1982, I had a severe car accident that resulted in a back fracture which prevented me from training to my full capacity for 4 years. However, I was still an active instructor assisting when I could.
From 1986 to 1988 I trained under Sensei Enzo Pizzo in Fawkner achieving my Senior 2nd Degree. From 1988 to 1990 I assisted Kyoshi Billy Sutton in running both the Fawkner and Lalor Dojos and received the title of Sensei.
From 1990 to 2014 I decided to run my own successful dojos under the banner of JC Dojos Bushido Warriors, in the suburbs of Lalor, Thomastown, Broadmeadows, Fawkner and Hadfield. During this time, with the help and assistance of several student instructors, I was successfully able to run multiple tournaments, Zen Do Kai orientated camps and outings as well as many in-house gradings. I was also an active member of the BJC Melbourne Steering Committee for many years.
From 2014 to present I have stepped back from running the Dojos and in my place, my student, Julian Conte (JC Dojos, Mickleham). I have continued in my place as a BJMA Head Instructor.
I am currently a 7th Degree Kyoshi with Zen Do Kai and a 2nd Degree in Muay Thai. My goal is to pass on the knowledge I have obtained over my many years to my students so as to inspire them to see the beauty and practicality of a progressive martial arts system like Zen Do Kai.
What attributes do I consider important within a martial artist?
- Knowing and understanding the inner workings and breakdown of forms/katas for realistic applications.
- Ensuring that respect, discipline and honour is instilled early on for the benefit of students.
- Understanding self-discipline and control of one’s actions. The way you conduct yourself can directly affect the people around you and in your environment.
What advice would I give someone who is starting out in BJMA?
- Study as much as possible from as many different sources and practice. Repetition is key.
“I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.” – Bruce Lee
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