In 1998, my husband and I went to a Karate
tournament in Elko, Nevada. As I watched the
women competing in the Kumite, I really wanted to
learn how to fight.

  I began to train, and every class, every test, I felt
stronger and more self-confident. The other women
in our school were instrumental in my growth as a
Martial Artist.

  I had tested along with my husband for every
rank we earned until our youngest son was born in
2004. I took some time off and received my Shodan
in 2008, when my instructors informed me that i
would have to compete in the full contact event at
our tournament as the test for my Shodan rank. I
couldn't have asked for a better test, for my
training and skills to be tested by women in our
organization that were strong, talented and
wonderful role models. In meeting and competing
with other women in Martial Arts, I have found that
Kyokushin is not just an avenue for exercising or
fighting, but the way to the developing friendships
that have become some of the most influential in
my life. Kyokushin has been the base for an
appreciation of all Martial Arts for me. Most
importantly , it is a strong bond that my husband
and I now share.

   I want to pass this love of Martial Arts on to the
students in our school, especially the young girls
that are training with us. I would like them to learn
to not only be strong physically, but mentally as
well. To believe in themselves as women and that
in learning a Martial Art, the can apply that same
discipline to their everyday life.
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