I started @ NESCJ back in October of 2004,I was tired of the sports I was doing each year and had always wanted to do martial arts..over the years I had the normal sports injuries and my major concern was my shoulder which I had surgery on...more on that later.

I contacted a friend by the name of Chris Bodholdt who had trained in Small circle through a different local Sensei years ago making it to the black belt rank. Chris was pretty clear who I should seekout,I remember him telling me,"Mike,You want to google Ed Melaugh,where ever he is,go there!"

I remember walking into the dojo and how nervous yet excited I was..I was greated by Ed and was eplained alittle about what they do and how the class would go,I immediately felt comfortable and was put at ease. I told him about my shoulder injury and he explained there will be injuries,but none severe as that but couldnt promise me anything...haha.

I was told if I wanted to take part in the class I was more than welcome,yet I decided to just look on and see what it was all about. After that class I was told to come back anytime,so I decided on a weekend class which was on a Saturday morning. Well shortly after class had started,I quickly wished I had taken the time to ask about the protective gear one might want to wear to class!! I remember I was paired up with one of the females and shortly after class began I was kicked between the legs!!?? Oh the pain..but in the end it was no ones fault but mine!

Yes there has been injuries,but the only thing I would change is I wish I started 20 years ago! I still look forward to each class as well as meeting and helping the new students..after 7 years I can honestly say my shoulder has never been hurt,although everything else has..hahahaha!

Its a great school with a great fitness kick boxing class that I do as well.Everyone is more than willing to helpout..unlike other arts,there is no ego's,plain and simple. If your looking for a great self defense martial art which is the most street practical art out there,there is no other place to look. I look forward to meeting you!

My current rank is Brown belt 2nd degree

Iam a Self employed Plumber
I can be reached by email preferred at mrichardplumbing@yahoo.com