27/11/2019
On Sunday 17 November 2019, I had the honour of being tested by the ITF Technical Committee: GM Hector Marano, and Grand Master Lan Ung at the International Instructors Course in Finland and was promoted to 7th Degree Black Belt, Master in ITF Taekwon-Do.
It has taken a little time to post something as, in all honesty, it has not really sunk in yet. I have been overwhelmed by all the wonderful messages and comments, I am truly grateful to everyone who has taken the time to contact me. Thank you all so much!
The Taekwon-Do Black Belt is wrapped around the waist once to signify loyalty to one instructor, but I have been fortunate enough to have many people who have helped, and continue to help me, on my journey.
Senior Master Arthur De Silva
Mr Barry Morris
Mr Daniel Gridley
Grand Master Trevor Nicholls
Grand Master Don Dalton
Grand Master Willem Jacob Bos
I would like to give special mention to Master Philip Lear, Master John Archer and Master Nick Symonds, who all gave up their time to help me prepare, and whose advice and guidance was invaluable. Thank you!
Thank you also to Master Anthony Mckenna, Mrs Patricia Gray and the entire ITF England Board for all their support with my application.
A big thank you to my conditioning coaches Tee Sylvester and Dalzette Zwiegelaar and my physio Owen Gerrie who made sure I got to Finland in one piece.
Of course, none of what I do would be possible without the support of my brother Calvin Thomas, who travelled to Finland with me with Alina Tiits and Soody Kim. Cal is the driving force behind our Taekwon-Do Association, and because of him I get to do what I love everyday, teaching an army of Warriors.
Thank you also to my other brothers, Rudy Jay Luchun, Big Phillip Ray Tommy, The Dragon himself Sabum Stephen Tapilatu and the Real Deal Neil Ernest who are a constant source of inspiration and support.
My parents sent me for my very first lesson, and have supported my Taekwon-Do from day one. I owe them everything. I started training when I was 8 years old, and continued because I loved it. Nothing has changed in all this time!
Johann de Silva
