Karate

Intro

I love karate!! Ever since I saw (don't laugh now...). Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in 1990 I have wanted to be able to do karate. I consider Karate an ideal sport keeping you in shape, learning how to control your body, and ultimately knowing how to protect your life.

I took my first lessons at Martial Arts America in Media, PA with Michael T. Bates. After entering college, I studied Ninjitsu and Taijitsu from a variety of books, but I didn't really have any hands-on experience.

After relocating to Phoenix in 2000, I decided to seriously pursue this burining interest. I now study at the Paradise Valley School of Karate. under Sensei Mike Wall 6th Dan, and Grandmaster Taika Oyata.

Chronology

12/7/2002: I PASSED! I am now an officially a blue belt. I have my ACL surgery lined up for January 7th 2003. Wish me luck!

10/1/2002: Prognosis: Torn ACL!!! I will be doing physical therapy long enough to test for my Blue belt, then off to reconstructive surgery in January of 2003!

9/11/2002: While preparing for the review, I tried an unusual kick in class and my knee "poped" out.

9/9/2002: Sharon has stopped going to karate because of the pregnancy. Webb is personally invited by the Sensei to review for Blue belt on 9/14 after only 20 hours of classroom training (normally 60 is required) WHOOOHOOO!!!!

6/2002: After another 30 hours of classroom traning, both Webb and Sharon attend a 5 hour review. They both earn Yellow belt.

3/2002: Both Webb and Sharon complete 30 hours of classroom training and earn orange belt.

1/1/2002: Webb and Sharon attend the first class at Paradise Valley School of Karate as white.belts.