Veronica began her study of Traditional Okinawan Karate in 2014 at the age of 4 at the Rooke School of Karate in Morinville, Alberta. She began as an Orange belt in Karate Kids & achieved the rank of Junior Nidan at the age of 12.
Learning Uechi-Ryu Kata came naturally to Veronica – hello 4 year old who knew Sanchin Kata & had the student creed memorized before she was 6. When Kumite was introduced to her it opened up a whole new world within karate to explore. She is learning & implementing the balance between lifestyle & sport of Martial Arts into her life.
Veronica began competition training at age 11 and has competed and medaled in many local tournaments. Early in 2023 at the age of 12 she became a Team Prospect for the Karate Alberta Provincial Team, and thus earning a spot on the 2023 team.
Student Creed
Remembering that the martial arts begin and end with respect, I intend to:Develop myself in a positive manner and avoid anything that would reduce my mental growth or physical health.
Develop self-discipline in order to bring out the best in myself and others.
Use what I learn in class constructively and defensively, to help myself and my fellow man and never to be abusive or offensive.
Karate took this once shy 4 year old, who would hide behind her mother, and taught her self confidence, helped build up her self esteem, & opened up a doors to give back & teach a new generation of karate students. Uechi-Ryu being a self defense style has also taught her valuable life skills in self defense & self discipline.
2023/24 School year made the Senior team for Volleyball & Basketball. Volleyball Team finished 3rd in the division & Basketball, the team finished 1st with their first ever Championship Banner for their school.
In Grade 7 (2022/23 school year) she was on the Jr. Volleyball, Jr. Basketball and Badminton Teams for her school and won multiple ribbons at the school divisional Track & Field Meet.
An active student in S.T.E.A.M. for the past 3 years in school.
Has been on the Honor Roll for Academics every year since Grade 4.
Is an assistant instructor at our dojo in the Kyu Rank classes.
Nine years of training under her Jr. Nidan belt:
🥋 Introductory classes as a 4 year old in Karate Kids that teach the basic skills of Karate
🥋Learning the fundamentals through traditional kata classes through white belt to where she is today
🥋Becoming a club athlete participating in regional tournaments & trainings. Also an assistant instructor to the Kyu Ranks twice a week.
🥋Competing at regional events that earned her a spot on the 2023 Provincial Team
The road still has destinations that include national & international athlete & Veronica has her goals set high.
What does Karate Teach you?