Sensei would like to express his most sincere thanks to everyone who supported the celebrations by attending or by making a donation to the chosen charities.
Thank you for everyone who took the time to attend the SMA demonstration evening on Thursday 26th February. The Portsmouth dojo was well attended, packed with family and friends wishing to observe and support the school.
Commencing with the juniors punching and kicking their way to stardom as onlookers watched in awe as students displayed an excellent example of the school's high standards. After a short break Ruksar Hussain took to the floor followed by a menacing Sempai Paul Matthews. Paul tried his luck a few times but Ruksar decided to show him what she was made of, applying a fantastic display of self-defense.
Sensei then surprised the audience when he appeared wearing his traditional Karate 'gi' to demonstrate 'Unsu' a 3rd Dan Karate Kata. This reinforced the history of Sensei's Martial arts career and pay homage to his roots. This is definitely an interesting side to Sensei that many had never seen before.
Then come the highlight of the evening…
Sensei was then surrounded by Sempai's Paul, Mia and Speedy who attacked in various forms whilst Sensei fought them off. Sticks, knives and bodies flew through the air as each black belt attacked in turn with devastating consequences. Many of the different arts were displayed and applied, as well as integrating them into an unexpected 'grand finale' where all 3 black belts attacked Sensei simultaneously making this a fun and informative display of skill.
Juniors Seminar…
The juniors were very fortunate to be able to train under Guru Phil Norman assisted by Sensei Woody White. Phil created an hour of complete fun with kickboxing drills and games. The juniors had a great time at bashing both the pads, and the instructors!! Special certificates, signed by Phil were presented to a very proud and tired bunch of junior students who trained very well throughout the seminar.
Seniors seminar…
The seminar was very well attended with nearly 50 students training, many of which traveled from the Isle of Wight, Worthing, Cambridge, Oxford, Hertfordshire, Coventry and Bournemouth to show their support
Guru Terry Barnett kicked off with a blend of Jun Fan, Thai and Filipino Boxing. Positioning, timing and 'set ups' were explained and demonstrated. Next on was Guru Phil Norman assisted by both Sensei Woody White and Toni Pears. With his wealth of MMA and cage fighting experience he covered the ground game with similar concepts to Terry's.
Both instructors created a great atmosphere and as always were truly inspirational.
The evening celebrations started off with the band 'Red handed' entertaining the crowd, ensuring everyone had a great time throughout the evening. After a tasty meal, guest speakers from The Mary Rose School explained to a very humbled crowd how, the children and school will utilize the money raised.
Sensei then took over the microphone and gave his account on the last 10 years explaining how SMA come to be the school it is today. He also took the opportunity to formally thank those who have contributed so much towards the success of SMA as well as those who showed their support and donated throughout the 10-year celebrations.
Once again a big thank you to everyone who showed their support and helped SMA raise the amazing total of £2806.46. Both Cancer Research and The Mary Rose School will receive £1403.23 each.
Sensei plans to visit the Mary Rose School and work with the children there, giving them the opportunity to sample some Martial Arts.
(by Sarah Dowden-Smith)
