In the early years, like all young children, it was very difficult to stay motivated and to focus on techniques. There was TV, video games, baseball, bike riding and a host of other things which were more important. But then something began to change. Mike matured and with that maturity came balance, power and confidence. As a young competitor, Mike proved himself to be a fighter and became proficient at forms. But being Sensei's son has its downfalls. The techniques were never quite good enough, the stances never strong enough and the forms were never exactly right.
Mike has trainied for almost 15 years all over the world. Of all the students who have passed this way, Mike has been the one to endure. My proudest moment is at hand. As I pass my obi to him and I pledge my knowledge to him, I cannot be more proud than I have been over these years.
Mike has the heart of a dragon, the strength of the tiger, speed of the snake and the gentleness of a lamb. He is SIKARAN and he has made this old man proud to have him as a son and a student.
