I first became interested in the martial arts in 1996. Initially, I joined a Kyokushin karate school, but, after a short period of time realized that this type of martial art did not afford me the kind of self-defense necessary in the real world - as it was a sport rather than a pure self-defense system. I was extremely fortunate to find the WingTsun (WT) system. I initially attended a demonstration of WT it proved immediately to me, that it was both a complete self-defense system and a martial art which allowed the individual to greatly enhance their self-defense capabilities, increase their fitness and develop enormous confidence for their personal and professional lives. I can honestly and completely state that WingTsun (WT) has forever changed my attitude to life and perceptions on self-defense. A brief biography of myself, I first started training in WT as a regular three (3) day a week student in February, 1998. I continued to be a regular student until my Si-Fu asked me early 2000 as to whether I would consider being a full-time student in order to eventually become a WT instructor. I decided that this was a tremendous opportunity and have since that time commenced my instructor training and also commenced teaching students in the Castle Hill (WT) school on Tuesdays and Thursdays. WingTsun (WT) as stated previously is a complete, no-nonsense self-defense system and for me personally, I cannot speak too highly of all the direct and indirect benefits it has provided. Phil Madonis
I first started doing karate when I was 8 years old and worked my way to black belt. After leaving that style I studied other martial arts such as kung fu, kickboxing and tae kwon do. All these styles were exciting and interesting to learn but they didn't provide me with the fulfillment that I really desired. In discovering Wing Tsun it provided me with the closure to all my questions about self-defense against realistic street style attacks. The beauty of WT is that you don't have to be strong to be able to defend yourself against one or more opponents. I was very nervous and intimidated in going to the demonstration performed by Si-Fu Stefan Fischer at the WT Randwick but when I was greeted by Si-Fu himself it was very welcoming. The demo and the one week free trial period captivated me and I joined straight away. Two months later I began the full time instructors course because 3 times a week wasn't enough for me. Wing Tsun has fascinated me through its history, philosophy and techniques. I recommend WT to any serious martial artist who has a joy in learning a style that seems to have so many endless applications from basic simple movements and also recommending WT for the person who wants to increase their defense capabilities against a stronger opponent. Tiago Ferreira
Although fitness, not self defence, was my initial reason for starting WT, from the first class I felt significantly more confident in my ability to defend myself from an attack. I am happy to say I haven't been disappointed on the fitness side either! After 9 months and 3 gradings I am still constantly impressed with how practical and intelligent this system is. It is based on an excellent understanding of body mechanics allowing a weaker victim to defend themselves successfully against a much stronger opponent. In addition , the teaching method in WT is very much "hands on". The majority of each class involves contact with various partners of differing strengths and builds. This trains you to become familiar with the force and techniques used in an attack and to automatically respond effectively. These two points make WT the perfect martial art for women. The atmosphere in class is friendly and encouraging. The instructors areextremely professional and safety during class is always a priority. Try it, you'll be hooked!" Linda S |