Looking back on the past twenty years

Editorial

by Sibok Lloyd Fridenburg
Fu For You Fall 2026

These lines are from a column that I wrote for the Fall newsletter of 2006, just after Sigung (Sifu) Dave took ownership, and became head instructor of the Waterloo Kung-Fu Academy:

“Mythology and symbolism are deeply entrenched in the psyche of civilizations throughout the world. Regardless of the culture, the phoenix has come to represent renewal and rebirth.

 

After two months of uncertainty, WKFA burst forth into the light of a new dawn. Sifu Dave Moylan has firmly grasped the reins of the Fenghuang (Phoenix) and we all look forward with great anticipation to our continued Kung Fu journey and ongoing success of WKFA.”

I have fond memories of a lunch that I had with Sifu Dave and Sifu Evan during the summer of 2006 where Sifu Dave indicated to me his intention to pursue ownership of WKFA. I, along with many others, have supported him in that endeavor ever since that day over 20 years ago. Interestingly, there are still close to 20 WKFA instructors that have been active in the school since that time, including several that were still in the Youth or Junior programs.

There are still a few of us that were directly involved in bringing this transition to fruition. Sifu Eric played an instrumental role, and much thanks is owed to him, because things were not always smooth and the future of WKFA was far from certain for most of the summer of 2006.

Soon after Sifu Dave became head instructor, we affirmed that we will never forget Sifu (Sigung) Bob’s legacy and that it must always remain the foundation of WKFA; but he was strongly encouraged to “put your own stamp on the school” as we evolve. I am so proud to see that we have remained faithful to Sifu (Sigung) Bob’s legacy but also embraced change and continued to grow under Sigung Dave.

Here are a few facts from the past 20 years:

  • 46 students have been awarded their Black Sash since 2006 with 24 still actively involved with WKFA. 22 students received their Black Sash prior to 2006 with 6 still actively involved.
  • We have had at least 2 major and a few minor curriculum updates since 2006.
  • The degree system for Black Sash instructors was solidified and significantly modified.
  • Monthly Black Sash classes and meetings ensure that teaching methodologies are consistent throughout our instructor base. All instructors are expected to maintain a high standard of skill and knowledge.
  • Because of Sigung’s own training, kick-boxing skills have become a prominent element in our curriculum.
  • The leadership team program has significantly evolved.
  • Many modifications and physical upgrades have been made to the school, making this the absolute best martial arts training facility in the region.
  • I am personally proud of the fact that Sigung and I managed to train one-on-one for well over 500 hours during the past 20 years. This helped ensure that we were always on the same page when teaching the Advanced Adult classes.

Sigung, you have been a student, a training partner, an instructor, and a role model; but most significantly, a friend. I was privileged to watch you grow from a wiry kid to a dedicated instructor, and now a respected leader.

A structure, physical or otherwise, is only as strong as its foundation. Sigung Bob provided the foundation and Sigung Dave has built an amazing and lasting academy on that foundation. I can’t wait to see what the next 20 years bring.