Sigung’s Corner

by Sigung David Moylan
Fu For You Summer 2024

Bruce Lee said, “A goal is not always meant to be reached, it often serves simply as something to aim at.” With this mindset, I embrace the journey towards my goals, knowing that the pursuit itself is where the true growth and transformation occur. ~ excerpt from Sifu Bala’s Black Sash grading thesis.

This past Spring was a full one including our Competition Team/tournament season, the annual CKKA Convention Weekend, our 25th Annual In-House Tournament (SIT) and the 45th Annual Karate Maynia. Spring culminated with a small but mighty Advanced grading, which saw the addition of three new brown sashes (Dylan, Upani, Shoja) and a new Sifu (Bala). Furthermore, Sifu Charlie achieved 2nd Degree Black Sash. Witnessing individual progress and the positive way in which people are representing themselves, I feel real pride in the students and instructors of the Academy.

Sifu Bala made WKFA history on May 11th by being the oldest person to achieve a Black Sash (having cleared six decades). While a great milestone, it’s only one of many ways Sifu Bala can inspire us. He approached his entire journey to Black Sash with the utmost humility. He comes to the Academy each day free of ego with an open mind, ready to learn and simply put in the work. Never does he make excuses; he keeps training to the best of his ability, aware of his limitations, but doing what he can, day in and day out. 

His class attendance is second to none. At Brown Sash alone, he attended over 700 classes, typically 7 times a week and often twice a day! This is on top of assisting with several classes a week. For the years we had our 6am aikido classes, he rarely missed. Sifu Bala actively takes part and assists in almost every aspect of the Academy. During the challenging years of 2020 to 2022, he was the first person to stick around and grab a mop to lend a hand. His willingness to serve further proves the quality of his character.

Sifu Bala is strong, flexible and vibrant. In the Advanced Junior class he assists with every Saturday morning, he has the lowest centre splits in the kwoon! Beyond his physical traits, his attitude is what exemplifies a true martial artist. He perseveres, taking full ownership for his progress. When he failed his Green Sash grading, he quietly waited until everyone had left to calmly chat about what he needed to address to pass the next time. Then he did just that. 

One of the most endearing qualities Sifu Bala brings to the Academy each day is his sense of humour and light heartedness. He’s as well intentioned and gentle as he is physically strong. My teacher described Kung Fu as “serious fun”. Sifu Bala gets the fun part and truly savours the journey without taking himself too seriously. The serious part is him putting in consistent effort. My sincerest congratulations to you Sifu Bala – welcome to the Black Sash Team!