They have been operating in Front Royal for a few years now, meeting at the Front Royal community center, since they do not have a Dojo. I decided not to join from the start as it seemed a bit too wild and disorganized, I was not happy at the fact that she was calling me an 'Old Man' during the 'tryout session', but its no problem, maybe I am, but still a bit unprofessional I thought. My daughter wanted to be with her friend so we decided to have her join about 1 1/2 years later again, when they seemed a lot more organized. I ended up joining a few weeks later, since my daughter was asking me. All was fine until the Sensei noticed that I was a bit faster and better than her students of 2 years during sparring, and I was a stinky white belt. After her orange belt (who is now green) gave me a sucker kick to the knee i decided to speed up my simple techniques and gave a simple combo, which seemed to devastate him and he was out complaining for the rest of the class (probably acting). The Sensei gave me time out and did not consider her long time students side and just abused me in front of others. The next strategy was to get me out as soon as possible, before others learn that basic boxing techniques are often more effective than any Karate, when used properly. Instead of just telling me this, she proceeded to embarrass and even tried to put a brown belt against me in sparing, after she saw I easily defeated her green and orange belt. She then ordered her brown belt to 'humble me'. Too bad for her this did not work either. I decided its not the best to continue as its just not professional teachings. I did basic training among some very good teachers and all of them were VERY professional. I had a problem with the notion that if an 'out of shape' 'old man' can do well against her highly trained students than this is indeed a waste of money. One issue I have with Karate is the idea that it focuses more on dancing their forms, and not really getting involved in practical fights. Any amateur will tell you speed is of great importance. I am sure there are good Karate teachers out there, and I am also sure that Karate can be effective when taught right.
The biggest problem I have is the notion that its a Catholic run theme, this is far from the truth as she tells the kids to ask for the creator of 'Shotokon' spirit to come into them. There is no mention of Jesus, nor are their any prayers ever said in class. This new age nonsense can fool some people, but not us. After feeling this was not the best for us, we were honest with her and asked for our money we paid for the month. When we were honest as to why we were leaving she threw a tantrum, then instructed her students to never talk to us again, or they will be cut from her program. I am happy we made the right choice, the ones I think who will suffer the most are those paying for this silly training and being brainwashed about their future blackbelts as they pay. In the end we told her to keep the money she owes us and give it to a charity. read more
