I started in karate when I was four years old, and I grew up in a karate family. I also snowboard, water ski and water board, and fish, so as I was growing up I had a lot of sports to keep me busy. I didn’t realize until I was older how valuable karate was as part of my upbringing. Because I was a karate student I learned discipline and focus as well as building strength and coordination. The mental and emotional benefits of karate added to the physical benefits and helped me to become a successful and competent adult. Now, I can pass those benefits along to my students. I really like seeing a student grow and develop from an immature, awkward child to a capable and confident adult. I am proud to be a part of that process in my student’s lives. I study hard to refine my own discipline and knowledge of the sport of karate so I can be a better competitor and a better teacher.