INSTRUCTOR PROFILE:
Mick Gorman
By Mick Gorman
Born 22nd July 1934, I spent my early years as a local businessman promoting my two garages. I was a successful drive on the motor racing circuits of Britain retiring in 1974 and needing to fill the void, I cam to Shotokan Karate International just after my 40th birthday. Within four years I had graded to Shodan. Already being secretary for the club, I also took on the roll of administrator promoting and travelling many miles with Head Instructor Sensei Paul Perry and continuing in this roll at the foundation of JSK. I am no longer administrator but continue as General Secretary.
Dream Come True
Being invited to Sensei Paul Perry’s residence to dine with him, and guest of Honour Kanazawa Sensei.
Most Fulfilling Moments
* Kanazawa Sensei giving me the choice to fight freestyle during my 3rd Dan grading with three very much younger well-known opponents when I was in my fiftieth year and freestyle was not required.
* Being presented with a Samurai Ceremonial Sword Set for services to JSK.
Satisfying Achievements
* Runner up of the men’s Senior Freestyle 1977.
* I was co organizer of the largest ever course at Watford Dojo with high ranking Japanese instructors hosted by Kanazawa Sensei. Over 470 students attended with two hundred grading, including Dan grades over 3 days.
* Not missing a single Saturday training session for 11 years (business partner – not pleased).
* Competing in and finishing well up in JSK sponsored marathon, two triathlons and quadraphon "very painful".
Apprehensions
* First warm up session, first time out in front instructing class.
* First stamina session "must be mad".
* First all night walk, great fun, best thing with clothes on!
Now in my senior years I attribute my strength, speed, flexibility, stamina, power and T’ai Chi skills to the invaluable years of study under the excellence and superb technical teaching of the new Master Paul Perry and his philosophy in the teaching of injury free Karate. Also other JSK instructors.
Being principle Instructor at the Watford Dojo teaching Tuesday and Friday with two excellent back up instructors "come along and see how it works" all ages welcome.
Likes
Technical Training sessions and fixing cycles
Dislikes
* Disloyalty to JSK and Karate politics.
* Instructors who lack compassion for their students and think everyone is 18 years old.
