I am a 3rd Dan Black Belt Instructor at the Gladstone Dojang and I have been practising Toogee Martial Arts Taekwondo for just over 14 years.
I originally began training as a way to spend time with my daughters as well as a way to keep fit while learning self-defence techniques – a skill that I think every child should begin learning at an early age. My eldest daughter wasn’t a fan (she is a shy girl) but my second daughter Chelsea kept at it and earned her Junior Black Belt (1st Poom) at the age of 12. She is not training at the moment as Uni and general life have gotten in the way, but I imagine she will return when things settle down and she will continue her martial arts journey.
I received my 2nd Dan in 2017 and was promoted to Branch Instructor that same year. I have been instructing an ever-evolving class since then with a few students attaining their Black Belts along the way. I love instructing and imparting the knowledge I have gained over the years to my students and love it when they have that “ah-ha!” moment when something they have been trying to learn clicks. It is the best feeling for me as an instructor to see them improving and learning.
In my “day job” (I use that term loosely :P) I am currently a Maritime Security Guard and I also run a small Web Development business called Nightowl Design Stuidio. I enjoy reading, watching TV Series & Movies, and a bit of gaming here and there when I get a chance. I am also renovating my house which is taking much longer than it should be! I come from an Italian background, so when someone asks me what my favourite food is, the answer is usually “All of it!” 😀 😀
