Testimonials
I first began Karate in 2005 when I was 7 years old. For the first couple of lessons I was very nervous, but after that I grew more confident as my teacher, Sensei Ged Dolan, made all of the lessons fun, but at the same time taught us about respect and discipline. I was really enjoying all of the lessons I was having, but when I got my brown belt in 2007, I had to stop as I was having an operation on my leg. I couldn’t do karate for 8 months, but when I finally got back, it didn’t take me long to get my brown belt 2nd tab. In July 2009 I passed my brown and white belt (3rd tab), which I worked really hard for. Hopefully at Christmas I may be able to try and earn my black belt which I am very excited about.
James Leigh – Age 11
I joined karate when I was 11 years old in 2005. I didn’t have much confidence in myself and learning karate has helped to build my confidence. I struggled with kicks at first, but these have got a lot better through hard training with Sensei Ged. As well as training, we also have fun days where we can win trophies. I won my first trophy in 2005 which gave me a great boost. In December 2008, at the age of 15, I successfully graded for my black belt, for which I felt very proud. As well as the children’s classes, I also attend an adult class which is really hard work but enjoyable.
Samantha (Sam) Leigh – Age 15
I have supported my children doing karate and felt very proud of their achievements. After my son had an operation on his leg, his confidence dropped and he was worried about returning to karate. I decided to join myself, to help my son when he returned. I joined in December 2007 (age withheld) and although I found karate really hard work, I soon got the bug for it. Karate is a great form of self defense as well as keeping you fit. I have recently passed my brown belt. It is hard work but Sensei Ged is an excellent teacher and there is great camaraderie within the class.
Paul Leigh
My son Sam has been going to Renshinkai karate at Penketh and Warrington Karate Academy for approximately six months, he is now a red belt and training for his yellow belt.
Sensei Ged Dolan, in my opinion, is an outstanding instructor who instills discipline, respect and hard work into the children he trains. The children have the utmost respect for him and every child appears to enjoy the classes. There are some outstanding and talented students within the club and they are a credit to Ged and his training techniques.
I have studied Shotokan karate, boxing and wrestling for a number of years, as well as coaching children's rugby. I personally feel that Ged Dolan is the best trainer/instructor to children I have ever seen. My son has thoroughly enjoyed the last six months of his karate and I have found that it has assisted in his behaviour, concentration and discipline.
I believe it is vitally important for children to learn the value of hard work and self belief. Ged Dolan gives his students all this and much more!
Craig Peel - Police Officer
"Both my sons began training with Ged when they were 8 and 5 years old. They trained twice a week and never liked to miss a lesson. As a result, they have been able to maintain an high level of fitness which has helped them enormously in their other pursuits whether it be swimming, football, basketball or the sport they participate in at school. Ged always makes the classes fun for the children whilst at the same time managing to maintain an exceptional level of discipline. Both boys have now got their black belts which is a great achievement and one which, as parents, we are very proud about! Not to be outdone, or should I say left behind, I decided to take up the training at the adult classes and I'm now working towards my black belt - one day maybe!"
Thanks Ged and keep up the great work - Neil