Testimonials

My name is Steve MacLean and I have been a student at champions martial arts academy for approximately 6 years. I have recently attained my black belt. When I started at Champions I really did not have any idea what to expect. I remembered my first day waiting anxiously for my first introductory class to begin. I was watching the advanced students train and I was amazed at how talented they all were. I thought that I would never be able to do the things I saw them doing.

When I began training regularly I couldn’t believe how much I enjoyed it. I felt my body and my mind becoming stronger. The benefits that I received from my training encouraged me to embrace a healthier lifestyle.

I really began to look forward to attending all my classes and not just for the physical and mental benefits that I felt I was receiving. Champions became a positive social environment for me as well. I quickly became friends with many of my fellow students. Everybody seemed very nice and supportive of each other’s training. Amongst the numerous other benefits that I was receiving as a student at Champions, I also found many role models there. I met many people who where not just as talented martial artists but really good people as well. These people showed me what it meant to set goals and how good if feels to achieve them. I found these role models possessed many qualities that I wanted to instill in myself. They always had time for me and my questions and they always encouraged me to be the very best I can be.

As I began writing this, I thought about thanking Master Farid, Sense Ingrid, Sensei Blake and all the rest of the staff at Champions Martial Arts for making me a better person I then realized that I should be thanking them instead for training me to develop the qualities that needed to make myself a better person. Thank you all. You’ve all made an incredible impact in my life!
Gratefully
Steve MacLean

“I had just been early retired from my company after 30 years of service and was at a bit of a loss as to what to do with myself. I must confess that when I walked through the door of Champions about 18 months ago and watched one of the classes for a few minutes my first thought was…you’ve got to be kidding!! The program director came over and asked if she could help and I said… “ do you have any classes for old folks?” it took her about 6 months to coax me into starting but what has followed has been one of the most satisfying years of my life.

My Sensei once compared life to a ship and the need to sail forth. This old ship left port long time ago and has sailed the 7 seas. I found myself back in harbour with stretched rope, torn nails, and a lot of loose hull planks. The instruction I have received at Champions from my Sensei  and other members of the staff has been excellent for both knowledge and fitness, strength and flexibility. It has also been delivered in a manner which is considerate and supportive of my many injuries and lowered the ability. Thanks to Champions I am truly becoming the best I can be.

In 3 years I will be a black belt…one year ago I would have laughed at the person who told me that…it is now an achievable goal. My health has improved, my life has improved… thank you Champions.!”
Best regards,
Jacques Samuel

"Each one of us brings a lifetime of experience to any activity in which we engage. This is true for both youngsters and adults who cumulative experiences will accent their drive when training within the martial arts. Further is the harmony of these life experiences that benefits each martial arts student through the sharing of our traditions. cultures, values, memories and dreams. All of us have different reasons for seeking the martial arts as a way to better ourselves and these reasons reflect both physical and mental requirements. The opportunities that may be gained from entering the martial arts world can lead to a life long legacy that if one develops the personal discipline to rise to the occasion will ensure for a lifetime of quality learning and inspiration.

For many years I sought a way to direct my focus and attention that would reflect my own values and beliefs in a positive manner. Writings with the field of martial arts, prior to my actual participation in classes, had allowed me to direct my energy towards maintaining my inner spirit or chi.

Eventually, through the encouragement of several others, this earlier focus led to the exploration of the active martial arts world. Champions has, from the outset, offered many challenges and led me to marvel at what had been dormant abilities now brought out by the instructors and students at the school.

Champions’ atmosphere is engaging and inspiring, the chemistry of the school flowing through all of its participants. At Champions I have rediscovered the inherent desire to offer assistance where I can, to accept challenges when they are offered and to find the good in all things. From the familiar feel of the wooden floor, to the adrenaline of testing night all of our senses are heightened by the contributions we make towards Champions and its role towards family, friends and community."
Paul Ferguson

"My first memory of Champions Martial Arts Academy is Bryce's introductory lesson (exactly six years ago this month). During the lesson, Master Farid Dordar asked Bryce how high he could kick. Bryce held his hand at about waist level. Master Farid raised his arm a meter higher to shoulder level! Bryce kicked and kicked and kicked, but failed to get anywhere near the target hand. Master Farid only smiled and said, "I'm not putting down my hand until you kick it". I flinched, wondering what kind of a torturous place I'd brought my son to. Well, on the next try, Bryce concluded he'd have to get some height by running. This time, he kicked Master Farid's hand easily. Delighted- we all were! At that moment, I knew what kind of a place this was - a school where goals would be high yet attainable and where my child would be taught with respect and faith!

Over the years of watching Sensei Ingrid, I quickly realized that she was absolutely one of the best teachers I'd ever seen as well as one of the finest, most caring and compassionate women I'd ever met. It has been an honour and a privilege to be part of Champions. It is with sincere thanks and great sadness that we say farewell to all the fine instructors, staff and students who have touched our lives. Please remember us when you come to Victoria."
Yours,
Carol & Bryce Newton