Branch Instructor Mike Vee
Branch/Region
Tamworth Dojang & Gunnedah Dojang/ Upper Hunter Region
How long have you been training in Taekwondo? And what got you started?
I started my training in Tae Kwon Do in the early 80s but because of work commitments moved away from the sport . It wasn’t until I settled in Tamworth some 20 years later that I noticed a pamphlet regarding United Taekwondo in Tamworth. It seemed a great opportunity to do something together with my youngest son. It was a blessing to be reunited with my passion for Taekwondo
Highlights of your Taekwondo success?
Achieving my 1st degree black belt some 23 years later, along with sharing the moment with my son Jesse, who also received his first degree black belt on the same day.
Achieving 2nd Degree this year was another step in building up my ability to teach and pass on knowledge to others. On a personal note it was rewarding to reach this goal. Having the support of students in the class was a big motivation for me as well.
Describe your first black belt grading, and what it took to get you there?
My black belt grading was exciting for me. I don’t think I slept much the night before. After waiting and training for so many years. The day finally had arrived. Every day prior I tried to simulate sparring for long periods of time leading up to the grading just to try and get a feel for what it would be like and although it was not quite the same, it did help me get through. Having to spar wave after wave of other black belts was a experience I will never forget.
How often do you train? In Taekwondo? Gym? etc
I have been training 3 days a week at Tamworth and Gunnedah but at home I try and go through the Patterns every day plus some Cardio workouts and weights. I like to get up every morning and do stretching for at least 30 minutes. It helps start the day.
Favourite Taekwondo move or moves?
I like to look for counter attack moves. It helps to try and think one step ahead, my favourite is side kick, a great weapon to get under most peoples guards.
What are your goals in Taekwondo for 2012?
Help others in class to build confidence and achieve the same success that I have. To build the class up and to promote the art of Taekwondo in the community as a great way to have fun get fit and learn self defence.
What would you like to see more of or less of in United Taekwondo that could benefit members?
Maybe a monthly newsletter on what’s happening. More interactive activities on the web site.
Has Taekwondo benefited home life? If so in what way?
Not only has my youngest son and I shared some wonderful experiences through Taekwondo my other sons have also been involved as students. United really gave me an opportunity to share in the learning of martial arts as a real family unit. Being able to share in family activities in its self is the biggest reward
Your favourite saying and what this means?
Believe and you will achieve!
This is my own saying. You can achieve anything you want in life if you put the effort in and set your own goals. If you want success in anything you sometimes have to make sacrifices to achieve you goal. Whether it be getting up every morning to train or missing out on down time to practice patterns. Above all its important to focus and believe in yourself.
Best advice you can give someone training and wishing to start training in Taekwondo?
Tae Kwon Do is a wonderful way to keep fit. It gives you confidence to protect yourself it’s a fun way to exercise and it gives you goals to aspire to each belt that you achieve. for younger students it also helps character development, and teaches discipline and respect to other people.
What other activities apart from Taekwondo do you enjoy?
I enjoy playing golf watching rugby league, boxing and anything to do with martial arts.
Favourite movie(s) and why?
Steve Seagal is my favourite actor in “Under Siege”, although Enter the Dragon Bruce Lee was the one movie that I could watch over and over.
Favourite food?
Atlantic Salmon. Salt and pepper squid
With regards to Taekwondo where do you see yourself in 5 years?, 10 years?
I would like to achieve my 3rd dan black belts and to keep instructing and hopefully have success at passing my knowledge to new students that are interested in success in Taekwondo.