Name: Sempai Paege

Martial Arts Rank: Sempai

Years Teaching Karate: Promoted this year

Martial Arts Styles Known: Karate (Amato's Goju-ryu), Kendo, Eishin-Ryu Swordsmen (Iaijutsu), Bo staff, Nunchucks

Primary Martial Arts Weapon: Samurai sword (Katana)

Secondary Martial Arts Weapons: Bo-staff, Nunchucks

Sempai Paege's Teaching Philosophy: I firmly believe that children benefit best from discipline along with a fun, active class. They learn self control and the history of the samurais they emulate, thus giving them a firm understanding of the why behind every action. I teach that the sword isn't a weapon but instead is a tool to use in combat. One of my main goals is the reinforcing of good behavior and building of the confidence in my students, as Martial Arts teaches children not only great skills, but also more importantly, a responsibility of their actions. I enjoy watching my students strive in their Martial Arts endeavors and in their lives. Martial arts allow the students to discover their true inner warriors and confident selves.

A Bit About Sempai Paege: I greatly enjoy the time I spend studying Kendo and the Way of the Warrior; I have been training for almost 4 years.

My discovery of Kendo happened when I was watching TV and thought, wow, that would be something to learn. After asking around, a fellow student in my school informed me that Amato's Goju-ryu (where she was currently training) taught all aspects of Kendo. For a holiday present, my parents signed my sister and I up for Martial Arts classes, one of the best gifts we got! My first Senseis were Sensei Charlie Goodal and Sensei Ryan Crosby who still teach when their time allows...they taught me everything I know.

I am grateful for the opportunity to pass on this knowledge.