Today, I’m speaking with Brent Goodroe, 1st Kyu
Weiner Sensei: What led you to Aikido?
Brent-san: A combination of things. Seeing Steven Seagal in the movies in the 90’s, my best friend practicing for a bunch of years and also having been around the dojo culture prior to joining and realizing that everyone there had the same values and training goals that I had, it was an easy decision.
Weiner Sensei: How would you describe class at our dojo?
Brent-san: It’s extremely informative, serious yet fun environment where everyone’s goals are to improve their skill and ability while also protecting their partner.
Weiner Sensei: What are your short term goals as a student?
Brent-san: To build and improve on some of the new areas of Jotori, Jonage & tachitori. Basically, the USAF Shodan Weapons requirements that I’m focusing on right now. To improve my comfort level with that.
Weiner Sensei: What are your long term goals as a student?
Brent-san: I want to advance my ukemi skills to the highest level based on my age and ability. I want to improve my basic knowledge of the fundamentals so as I advance and have the opportunities to teach more I can pass on what’s been taught to me.
Weiner Sensei: What does it take to be a committed student?
Brent-san: In all the people I’ve see and come and go versus the long-term students regardless of what they’ve done in the past, their cup remains empty. They have a thirst for knowledge and it’s very apparent since they are at the dojo training several times a weeks every week.
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