I am writing this, very emotionally, I am exhausted and sore, it has been a hell of a long day. I wanted to write this while the emotions were still raw, so shaking hands and all, I am typing.
After spending many years of my life on the mat it is very nice to be recognised with a Black Belt, it is unnecessary, but still very nice. I have been positively affected by my experiences in martial arts significantly and I hope that I have had a positive effect on others as well. My journey thus far has been positive for the most part and has been assisted by so many people, I would like to mention those who have helped me along.
Firstly, my Jiu Jitsu journey, and my life as a man, has been consistently helped and guided by the efforts of my friend and mentor, Adam Newton, who means more to me than he probably knows. I must also speak of my coach and friend Thiago Stefanutti who has taught me so much and had such a profound effect on the land scape of Jiu Jitsu in Tasmania and Australia. Next, when I talk about positive effects on the Tasmanian and Australian Jiu Jitsu scene I will also mention a man who has taught me a hell of a lot, John Will, you only have to see me run a class to see John’s indelible stamp on my game and coaching style.
My beautiful partner Sarah Jane Jacob is extremely supportive of me and my journey and inspires me daily, my two wonderful sons, Paddy and Evan, keep me smiling and focusing on being a better me as well. I am also largely who I am because of my family and the care of Tom & Elizabeth my parents and my siblings. I should also mention Gene Graham and Antony Cole who introduced me to Jiu Jitsu with VHS tapes of UFC 1-5 many moons ago.
I have had many other coaches and training partners over the years that have had a great effect on me, people like: Pete Rogers, Clancy Roberts, Billy Burton, Sandy Gale, Jim Reid, Bradley Lowe, Priscus Fogagnolo, Josh Fraraccio, Chris Stone and Paul Burn to name a few.
My students and training partners at Hobart Martial Arts Academy are also tremendously important to me and give me a lot of help and inspiration. I can’t thank you all enough.
Lastly the wonderful crew at Hobart Fitness Training who are truly inspirational and helped me beyond what they even know.
