Adult Karate: From Sideline Dad to Inspired Student
The journey of my belt graduation began in 2012 at the age of 44. Although I was always interested in combat sports as long as I can remember, I never imagined that I could actually consider earning a black belt in adult karate at my age. My wife and children were invited to a birthday party at Amerikick Delran, they enjoyed it so much my wife Maggie enrolled our children Elias and Irene shortly thereafter. I was pleased with her decision and couldn’t wait to take the kids to class myself.
My first impression of Amerikick Delran was that it was a pleasant family friendly environment. The instructors seemed knowledgeable in martial arts and well capable of instructing children. Shortly after the children joining Amerikick Delran, I began building friendships with some of the other fathers who’s children were enrolled at the school also.
One evening in June of 2012 Sensei Nick announced he would be holding a Father’s Day self defense class for any of the dad’s that wanted to attend and a bunch of us did. I enjoyed the class very much and sat down with Sensei Nick to discuss the possibility of becoming a student myself.
Finding Encouragement at Every Step
The Staff at Amerikick was not only receptive to the idea, they were very encouraging. As was my family and if it were not for there support I would not be writing this essay right now. So I began my pursuit of earning my black belt. In the beginning it was strange, in fact I recall asking Sensei Jamel if he had ever seen a 44 year old white belt and his response was an encouraging, you won’t be a white belt for long!! With that being said I slowly began to advance my ranking.
The more time I spent at the adult karate school and the better I got to know my instructors the more I realized that I was very fortunate to have found this school.
With the responsibilities of parenting, home life and work my assent was slow to say the least. I tried to make class at least twice a week but some weeks it was difficult but the desire to advance was always there although I must be honest and say that there were many times when I questioned myself.
More Than Just Kicks – Building a Supportive Community
Weather or not I should be spending that amount of time on a personal goal instead of being with my family, working on my business or even on the golf course where a man my age would look more appropriate.
But I stuck with it and I’m glad I. With the help of my instructors Sensei’s Steve Brenneisen, Ron Gebhardt, Jamel Morgan-Knight, Amy Swift and The Perdunn Family it was not only rewarding as an accomplishment but I was rewarded in making friends with all my instructors and their families as well.
With all that I’ve said thus far it is without question that I now must thank all of the people who have made this dream of mine a reality. My wife Maggie, our children Elias and Irene and the staff of Amerikick Delran. Thank you all for your love, patients and support. I couldn’t have done it without you, you guys are the best!!! Thank You All..