Renshi Kevin Goode has been practicing the art of jiu-jitsu and martial arts for over 35 years and he is now looking to share his knowledge and experience with anyone wanting to learn in the Oceanside area.
“I’m really looking forward to being able to share my love of jiu-jitsu and martial arts,” Goode said. “My goal as a teacher is to help everyone reach the pinnacle of their abilities and enjoy the personal success that comes along with it and be able to share it with others as well.”
Goode, who moved to Parksville just a few years ago, will start teaching classes Tuesday and Thursday nights in March at the Parksville Community and Conference Centre.
He’ll also be taking his teaching to schools in the area, teaching the basics of martial arts to students in P.E. classes.
“Parksville is a beautiful place, but being a parent, I see the struggles kids have here,” Goode said. “Having two kids in high school, I see the boredom that a lot of kids deal with and getting in to jiu-jitsu and the martial arts is a way to not only find something of interest potentially, but will also get them into the dojo where they can learn some very valuable lessons, not only in self-defense but in life as well.”
The one thing Goode is really looking to share with everyone is humility. “Always be humble,” he said.
He added that students need to be aware that “the more proficient they become, the more dangerous they can become. Staying humble will keep you aware of things like that.”
Goode is a fourth-degree black belt in jiu-jitsu and he also holds a black belt in kenjutsu (art of the samurai sword), golden gloves in kickboxing and a second-degree black belt in taekwondo. In 2007, he was honoured with the prestigious title of Renshi, meaning polished instructor/masters’ teacher.
Ultimately, Goode wants to open up a dojo in town.
“Being able to give back always feels good,” he said.
“You take a look at a lot of dojos and you’ll find people who’ve been there for years, who have been giving back for years thanks to those before them that did the same thing.”
Said Goode: “Being involved in the community is what it’s really all about.”
Until then, Goode will teach at the PCCC. There will be a registration day on Sunday, March 8 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Anyone ages 7 and up can join. For more information on the classes, you can contact Goode at 250-937-1555 or by email at apollo6505@gmail.com
