July 28th, 2013

From Sensei Neff, Yon-Dan Ueshiro Midtown Karate Dojo

P.S. 748 Ueshiro Karate Club

Stepping First

Onegai shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei and fellow Deshi,

Hanshi has told us numerous times over the years to step first when executing any technique. I would go as far as to say that he may say it in every class he teaches. Recently I was able to see his words come to life on the deck.

Sho-Dan Mr. John Draghi from the Ueshiro Midtown Dojo was injured in a life-altering accident when participating in the NYC triathlon over a year ago. His recovery is far from over, but last month he returned to the deck and participated in a traditional Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate USA workout. Hanshi’s words were exemplified by Mr. Draghi in many ways.

First and foremost, the tanden and soku Mr. Draghi demonstrated by putting on his gi and walking onto the deck long before most "normal" people would was tremendous to witness first hand. This was his first step in a long line of karate steps he will take on his journey back in the martial arts.

During that first class I think I was in too much awe of Mr. Draghi to actually look at the karate he was doing from a technical standpoint. I was lucky enough to cross paths with Mr. Draghi on the deck again this past Friday. This time I really watched him and every move he performed he stepped first. Now I’m not sure if this was because he had no choice but to step first or because Hanshi has hammered this point home to us over the years. Regardless of the reason, it was great to see. So this week and always remember to step first!!!

Domo arigato gozaimasu -

Sensei Neff, Yon-Dan

Ueshiro Midtown Karate Dojo

P.S. 748 Ueshiro Karate Club