Inducted into the A.M.A.H.O.F. (Inc) and W.K.U.H.O.F. for 2023

Continual Excellence and Service to the Australasian Martial Arts Community

Website: www.universaltaekwon-do.com.au

Gerard began training in the martial arts around the age of 5, 45 years ago now. He began his journey in Judo, then progressed to training in Kyokushin, but was fascinated with the kicks of Taekwon-Do. Martial arts have always held his attention, from Bruce Lee to the fight scene at the start of The Pirate Movie, nothing escaped his desire to see some cool fight scenes!

Taekwon-Do has now taken him all over the world, representing Australia at 4 World Champs as a competitor medalling at the 2007 and 2011 World Champs and as a coach for the Australian squad on a number of occasions.

He has also had the honour of Umpiring at the highest level, being the first Australian umpire to officiate in the centre ring at his first World Champs, and also being the first to be given the honour of umpiring the finals of team sparring.

He has contributed significantly to the Australian ITF National bodies filling a number of executive roles for many years.

In addition to teaching Taekwon-Do, he has also earned the rank of 3rd Dan in Haidong Gum-do, a Korean sword art. There have been medals at competitions sure, but what he gained in experiences and friendships far outweigh these achievements.

His next goals include, continuing to share his knowledge and passion for martial arts, grading for his 7th Dan in Taekwon-Do next year in August and his 4th Dan in Haidong Gumdo this year in October…. ALWAYS LEARNING!