Sensei John began his training at the age of nineteen (19) in 1985 under Shihan Theodore Tsanidis at the old Dulwich Hill Dojo. Sensei John’s hard training earned him a black belt (Shodan) 5 years later (1990) at the age of twenty four (24). Sensei John continued his training through the years and achieved his 2nd Dan (Nidan) in 1995 and then his 3rd Dan (Sandan) in 2003. Sensei John started teaching at the Dulwich Hill Dojo in 1989 just before he obtained his Shodan and then became the head Instructor at the same dojo in 1990 where he taught till 1994. He then became head instructor at the Marrickville Dojo and taught there between 1994 till 1997. Work commitments forced Sensei John to reschedule his Martial Arts teaching sporadically assisting the other instructors at the Earlwood, Dulwich Hill and Lakemba Dojo’s. Today, Sensei John assists Shihan at the Lakemba Dojo.

Sensei John was inspired to begin his study of karate from 70’s Martial Art cult movies with Bruce Lee and by his father, a police officer who also taught him the importance of self defence.

Sensei John believes Goju-ryu has taught him how to defend himself, has improved his fitness and has given him confidence and a respect for others.

Outside of karate, Sensei John runs his own business as a picture framer. For more information about Sensei John's work you can visit his website at www.framingcorner.net.au