Adults
My Martial Arts training has been fantastic so far, other than helping me become stronger physically it has given me a lot more confidence in my day, especially when I am out about on my own. I am calmer and seem to approach any conflict in my day with a lot more ease.
I like that everyone form black to brown to blue all the way down to white belt train together and help each other out – sort of like a big team, everyone supporting one another but also learning as individuals. I feel completely comfortable in class.
The patience and calm in your teaching, and the way you approach all situations in a peaceful way makes it easy to come to class as well, when I started I thought we were going to be bent and bruised and yelled at, but it is not that way at all.
Martial Arts training is a personal journey for me, I have learned that I need to commit myself fully if I am to grow from this experience, every lesson I learn something new or become stronger I feel so good about myself. I am loving every minute and having so much fun, thanks!
Emma
Hi Sensei.
I have been meaning to thank you quietly for a number of months now and i took the opportunity today to do it but i don’t think i made myself clear so i will try now.
I am 34 years old now. Many years ago, up until age 20, i was a very fit person and managed to push myself through barriers that were in front of me. Mentally and physically.
Fast forward 13 years and i have had a full and amazing life, except i had lost that mental and physical toughness i had all those years ago. I would say to myself, i used to have the ‘eye of the tiger’ but i have lost it somewhere in the last decade. I would go for a jog and give up after only a short period and walk, even though i felt physically fine. The ‘eye of the tiger’ as it means to me, was the ability to smash through the walls physically and mentally during exercise.
Through your dojo, and through you, and all of your trainers, and all of the senior students pushing me along the way, i now have it back. There is not a single class in the 11 months i have been training in your program, where i have left the dojo, with anything left to give. Right from the first class i pushed myself to my limit and i have been growing ever since.
I can’t even imagine where i will be mentally and physically 5, 10, 20 years down the track but i am looking forward to seeing where i end up.
Thank you Sensei Andy for allowing me into your Dojo.
Robert
Just a short note to express my gratitude for the change Northstar Martial Arts brought to my life.
I had a fairly serious spinal operation in May 2013 after a prolonged period of painful nerve damage and I truly thought that, physically, I would be incapacitated. I joined Northstar in February 2014 and have found the training, teaching methodology, the variety of training, the camaraderie and respect shown by instructors and students regardless of levels/belt colour, very motivating. All the trainers, bar none, bring something unique to each session: Ben’s focus and humour, Darren’s amazing commitment and technique, Max’s enthusiasm and kindness and Ed’s sharpness and agility…I could go on…
The grading experience over the weekend was truly inspirational and made me believe that with the right mindset and commitment, anything can be achieved.
Again, thank you and your fabulous team for changing my life and giving me the physical challenge that was but a dream a year ago.
Gad
Since joining the team in May, I have felt so much better about my own personal journey and much more self confidence. I really respect Andy and the trainers and feel honoured to be a part of such a great school. I have met many good friends thus far and it’s a shame I cannot train more. As my own personal goals are to attain a black belt under your teaching and to become a trainer myself one day, I am committed to getting the most out of each class I attend.
Benefits I have received from Martial Arts have been most importantly discipline. As I am a catholic, it has strengthened my own personal beliefs and values and helped me to realise what love and service is all about.
I feel proud to be a student of Northstar Martial Arts and hope to stay with the school for many years to come.
Phil
The lessons I have learned during from the Northstar program have also been unique and invaluable. On Saturday night I was lucky enough to be taken along to the Rugby league test (Oz vs England), and it was my Northstar training that allowed me to not only avoid a vicious alcohol fueled brawl right next to where I was sitting, but also to identify the looming fight and assist my hosts in getting out of the danger area promptly.
Thanks once again for your interest and willingness to help me to progress
Robert Hughes
I have only been training in martial arts for 3 months but can honestly say that it has changed my whole way of life. I realise this sounds dramatic but the statement is 100% true. Of course physically, I have benefited incredibly during my time at Northstar. I feel fitter and stronger at 34 than I ever did in my twenties.
And considering this time last year I was overweight and lethargic at 84kg and I now weigh 63kg and full of energy I think it goes without saying that the intense cardio training in our Northstar classes has played a major role in my quest to get into shape.
More importantly than the physical strength I have gained during my training is the mental strength I have built which is very much an unexpected but welcome surprise to me. I seem to look at things differently, more calmly than I used to. At first I thought it was down to the fact that any aggression I may have would be released during the physical training in class but I now realise that I am developing a different view on life in general.
Admittedly before I started martial arts training, I was under the impression it was all about defending yourself and getting fitter. Which of course is a major part of Northstar but the mental and emotional training we receive at Northstar is actually now just as, if not more important to me and is becoming the major factor that keeps me committed to my training. I’ve noticed the change in the person I am and my partner has noticed too. I was by no means a tense person before but I definitely have a calmness about me now.
I now find I look forward to the start of the week and hope the week lasts longer instead of willing it away to the weekend. I look forward to progressing and challenging myself in each and every class. I’m really enjoying my training and plan to keep on doing so for a long time to come!
Dave.
For a while pre joining, for a long time after and occasionally now, I have suffered from depression.
NorthStar has (and continues) to help me with my inner demons….it has been the best drug whenever I feel down.
John
I must say that I have not experienced a better service, attention or support in any other sporting organisation. It is an absolute credit to Sensei.
I hope to drop in from time to time to watch others train.
Hamid
Northstar Ju Jitsu is unique because it finds its origins in traditional martial arts such as Taekwondo and Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu, yet draws on the strengths of more contemporary evolutions of martial arts such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, while focusing on something beyond the physical. It is truly a complete martial arts system with a broad array of techniques designed to cover most scenarios of physical self-defence that a person may need to resort to.
Sensei Andy Dickinson built on his practice of Taekwondo, known for its unforgiving kicks, Judo, which builds strong foundations for throws and grappling on the ground and, of course, Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu, which he practised extensively in Japan under Katsuyuki Kondo Sensei.
Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu is a martial arts system with deep roots in Japanese Samurai history and tradition and strong links to Aikido.
But, over and above the physical practice, what makes Northstar Ju Jitsu truly unique is its ability to open the door to anyone to step into a truly effective martial arts system and aim to become a Black Belt. Sensei Andy Dickinson has demystified the concept of achieving Black Belt by placing it within the reach of ordinary individuals, away from the old clichés of Black Belts being the domain of only hardened practitioners of martial arts in closely guarded circles.
Every week, men and women, boys and girls from all walks of life step into the many dojos that teach the system, united in their quest to develop into the very best of themselves. How? By practising this unique style of martial arts that, despite having the most devastating techniques, is built on training its students in body, mind and spirit.
Beyond the stubborn dogma or senseless physical brutality of many other fighting systems, Northstar brings everything back to awareness, without which there simply cannot be the best possible outcome to any situation.Rob. NSJJ Senior Black Belt.
Kids
Ellie and Ira are really enjoying their lessons, thanks. They have been coming consistently each week since signing up, and they enjoy getting their little tapes on their belts because of what they represent – working towards a bigger goal.
They like to show off some of the moves they learn in class to our family. It gives them a sense of empowerment knowing that they can perform some of these moves if they were ever in a tricky situation.
We also enjoy the little mid-class discussions. It’s a nice touch and it gives them a little food for thought.
Thanks for checking in with us!
Bec
Dear Andy, Tom, Jaren & Team,
Christian, Jayden and I wanted to thank you deeply for your support and mentorship through out the first 6 months of our martial arts journey.
I have attached a quote (via photo) which relates to the difference you three gentlemen are making to young males (I can only speak on behalf of men) through your dedicated efforts and displays of character in being patient, honourable and respectful.
You are helping all of us build in self confidence, and you are teaching all of us how to handle fear (and in one case school bullying). You help us, so that we can then help others.
I wanted to share a story about a young punk kid and the effect his teacher had upon his future:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aFoCTEjmejM
Thank you again for living this inspired journey, I wanted to give you confidence that you are creating a legacy through your actions every day, even if it is only with us. Your character as young men, allows me (as an old man) learn too.
With gratitude and love
Chris
Hello Andy,
Just a quick note to say a huge Thank You to North Star Martial Arts. Your team are wonderful! Marina, Fernando and Martin are such professionals who genuinely care about our Child, Stella McLaughlin, and her development in this class. Stella is thoroughly enjoying the class, and each week, I too feel excited about her learnings and feedback on the session. She looks forward to it with high anticipation.
On Saturdays, she does Jazz and Tap Dancing, which my husband takes her to (as I work). The two classes are really adding to her daily enjoyment and discovery of herself and her little world, and helping us to raise her as a multidimensional, well rounded person, caring for her inner and outer self as best as we/she can.
I’ve just completed your Survey, thankyou for sending it to parents/carers. Feedback is foundational for growth and we appreciate you asking for it.
Your email also notified that we can take up missing sessions, so I’ll call Marina to book those in shortly. Due to travel (searching for Primary schools in Melbourne), and illness, we have missed two sessions, so I appreciate the offer of make up sessions – very kind.
Please pass on my gratitude to Marina, Fernando, Martin. Gratitude also to Liz, who called a few weeks back to check in with us and Stella’s experience of the class.
It meant a lot.
Best wishes and gratitude,
Lynette
Drew and Martin have had an incredible influence on Atlas in the short time he has been coming. He was quite withdrawn and lacking confidence. He was finding it difficult to play with other children and hurting his little brother a lot. 6 months later he is now playing with lots of children, speaking up if play gets rough with other kids and not hurting his little brother. He talks often about Drew and Martin and says ‘What would Mr Drew do?’ if something is hard or scary.
You have amazing teachers and Atlas and ourselves will miss your classes greatly. I hope to find somewhere else to provide such strong male role models for our kids outside of their father.
Victoria
For me I had a hyperactive child who has an ADHD dad (well mostly when he was a child!) who I needed to calm down. I also wanted to improve his concentration, teach him to take instruction especially in preparation for school, and gain self defence skills. Lastly I wanted an activity where the instructors are particularly ‘switched on’ and understand child behaviour and how to interact with, motivate and challenge them…your team are all these things!
These are your biggest selling points, linking the benefits with school in my view, especially for boys where parents maybe more anxious having seen girls talking, writing and concentrating before them!
Cara
He has his father’s ADHD which can be a real gift under pressure, but something modern “never say no” education doesn’t help much. He’s super smart (taught himself 4 different alphabets by 3), but uncoordinated and preschool hasn’t helped his listening skills at all. Since going to martial arts, and despite progressing a bit slower than the other kids, his comprehension, listening and communication skills have improved immensely! He’s even climbing trees now which he didn’t have the confidence for before hand.
From what I can see, the program there is a great balance of kindness with firmness and perfect school prep for busy little brains like Caleb’s. I’m particularly impressed you guys won’t hand out belts when kids aren’t ticking all the boxes. Important life lesson, especially at that age and with the lack of it at schools!
Keep doing what you’re doing mate.
Stuart
I wanted to write the to show our appreciation of your wonderful efforts, support and guidance in instructing our three boys..“We have been attending Northstar martial arts for nearly three years. From that first lesson three years ago we have enjoyed the support, the discipline, the fun and the friendships both our children and us as parents have made through Northstar Martial Arts with the instructors and fellow parents. In that time my elder boy has had over 200 lessons and now completed his purple belt with Bright Stars and now trains with the Super Stars. My two younger boys train with the Bright Stars and are Yellow and Red belts, and my daughter will join Bright Stars when she is old enough.
Northstar Martial arts has been wonderful in providing my three boys with great roles models for life, given them excellent fitness levels and teachers them strength of mind knowing that whilst they now know how to fight they know that they don’t need to fight.. thank you to Andy and your whole team“
Ed and Steph
Just wanted to drop you a line and say thank you for a terrific grading last Sunday at North Sydney.
Ben is so proud of himself for gaining his Junior Black Belt. It is wonderful to see him achieve something he has worked so hard towards, through hard work and dedication. A huge thank you to Angus and Carlos for working with him towards this.
We look forward to seeing him continue to grow and develop at Northstar.
Thank you and kind regards
Robyn
Northstar Ju Jitsu is also taught by senior Black Belts at their own studios'.
These are independently run from the Headquarters .Andy Dickinson Sensei is the head of and founder of Northstar Ju Jitsu and oversees the teaching of his program.
All Black Belts are graded by Andy Dickinson Sensei.
