Child Testimonials

Sensei,

I have been wanting to write to you to tell you all the things I like about your Koi karate class that my son attends, but there are so many things that are great about it and I have been having trouble figuring out where to begin. :)

But, finally, I think I can sum everything up. Obviously, karate is a great exercise for the body and it is also a wonderful way to learn things like self-control and patience. You are fantastic with these kids in helping them learn karate and all that it entails. On top of that, the one thing I think I like the best about you and your class is that everything is so positive. If the children are not behaving, they are not yelled at or shamed or emotionally beaten down, instead they are gently reminded of what they should be doing and then, given the chance to do it. And with this positive encouragement, the chlidren correct their own behavior and do what they are supposed to be doing. That is a fantastic atmosphere in which to learn!

Also, I totally appreciate your perspective on the child as a whole. Again, it goes back to the positive atmosphere you have created in the dojo. You often see traits in a child that others (including parents) might consider to be negative, but you see the positive potential in them. An example I saw was when a child was constantly interrupting you. Most parents would have cringed and many adults would have snapped at the child. You were very patient, reminded the child that he needed to listen and he did. But afterward, you explained to his parent that this child has leadership ability and his interrupting was a demonstration of that. It was like the light bulb went on in my head! We, as parents, spend so much time trying to stop our kids here and now from doing what is considered to be negative behavior, that we don't often look to see what that might lead to in the future. A child who interrupts constantly could be facing some big troubles down the road, but if that child's ability to lead is recognized and then that child is trained in how to properly use that ability, then there is no telling what possibilities await this child down the road. I love that you have that perspective and that you have given me that perspective as well!

My son is learning a lot from you, but I am learning a lot as well!

Thank you!
Barbara Penhalegon

Dear Sensei Steve,

I just wanted to thank you for the wonderful KOI program. It is rare to find an activitiy that both my 3 and 5 year old can participate in together. Your emphasis on character, self-esteem, and the history behind martial arts makes your dojo stand out head and shoulders above the rest that I have researched in the South Bay area. My sons have learned pride, self-restraint, and discipline in a fun atmosphere. We have been so impressed with your teaching style and the rigorous program that two other families from our preschool have joined. Perhaps the best part of being a part of the Southwest Dojo is that it feels like family; parents can watch and cheer on their students and my children often remark that Sensei would be proud of them for showing courtsey or good manners for something that they have done during the week. Thank you for giving my sons a great outlet for their energy and channeling it into producing fit young boys of great character!

I forgot to tell you that the testimonial about the KOI program came from Patricia Mayer and that I am a teacher and have taught for 13 years.

Thanks again for all that you do!

Tricia :) (Alex and Christopher Bean's mom)
San Pedro

Dear Steve,

You are a very professional in the way he conducts his sessions. I also appreciate the way he teaches about good character. What I mean by this is he teaches his students about hard work and being the best one can be. Yet, at the same time Mr. Gancherov teaches his students about having the up most respect for people which includes courtesy, humility, and helping one another whoever it may be whether in or out of the dojo. Mr. Gancherov gives the martial arts a great name.

Bernhald Boegner,
Wilmington, CA

Dear Steve,

My son has really enjoyed Sensei Steve and his class. I think his interest is due, in large part, to Sensei Steve's rapport with his class. He is an exceptional instructor in many ways. When it comes to setting a good example, no other instructor comes close.

Lynn Granger, R.P.V., CA.

Dear Steve,

Since the day my five year old started karate at Southwest Karate, he has become so much more self confident. He is a very shy child and Sensei Steve has taught him, that he is strong, smart and important. Now, when he meets someone new, he is confident enough to introduce himself. I am sure that his karate has helped him and will continue to help him throughout his life. I can't thank Sensei Steve enough...

Laura Bevan,
Redondo Beach, CA.

If you think Southwest Karate and Aikido is "just another dojo" -- think again!

Steve Gancherov, or "Sensei Steve" as my nine year old daughter refers to him, has created a program which is much more than just karate. Sensei Steve uses Karate as a medium to teach children character, kindness, discipline, respect and most importantly non-violence and self control. He builds self esteem in an environment which paradoxically demands and expects respect and yet gently motivates kids to...

My nine year old just loves to go to class and often quotes Steve at home with comments such as "Sensei says always be courteous ..."! As a pediatric emergency physician, soccer coach and father of three I know how hard it is to connect with kids these days to effect positive change. It takes patience and a true love of working with kids. Sensei Steve has created an "extended family" with his students and the bond of trust and dedication he has created with them motivates them to want to do well -- so "Sensei will be proud of me." Sensei Steve's methods have been proven to work with underprivileged youth as well. He created a program to work with severely at risk youth in the Barton Hill School in San Pedro. His techniques motivated kids who previously thought they had no chance and had largely been "written off" by others.

Their grades improved and they learned self control and self esteem. It is so rare these days to find people who want to work with kids and are truly good at it -- Sensei Steve is just one of those people with a talent for coaching kids. For my daughter, Southwest Karate is much more than a dojo -- it is a place where she feels accepted and good about who she is. That she learns karate is just the icing on the cake -- she is learning so much more. She is internalizing and demonstrating in her daily life the concepts that Sensei Steve teaches and which have been the foundation of Shotokan Karate for ages. We are so fortunate to have made Sensei Steve and the others members of Southwest Karate a part of our "extended family"!

Dave Amin, M.D.
Director, Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Little Company of Mary Hospital-Torrance

Dear Steve,

My two daughters, ages 3 and 5, are so excited to be learning karate from you and look forward to class each week. They come home and practice the different skills throughout the week. When I signed them up for karate, I wanted them to learn the basics and to acquire a few self-defense skills. I was pleasantly surprised that the classes not only cover a variety of techniques but also go beyond that in that it develops different areas of the self, which is extremely critical at this early stage in their lives. My daughters are learning "big" words like respect, discipline, and character. What I like is that you also emphasize good listening skills, which is extremely helpful in the home and classroom.

The class is taught in a strict, yet fun and silly way. It is very age-appropriate and the kids are learning and practicing their skills in a setting that emphasizes respect for others but at the same time lets them have fun. My daughters are also amazed and awed by the swords, sticks, and other neat karate "stuff" that they work with, things that they would only otherwise see on TV. Although my girls are still young, the karate outfits and moves they are learning make them feel "cool." For me as a mother, it gives me comfort knowing that they are participating in something that develops their self and safety skills, something we can't seem to get enough of. This class is truly something worthwhile for kids of all ages. Thank you for having such valuable and fun classes for my kids!

M. Yoo
Torrance, California

Dear Steve,

I am very happy with your class and as a parent, absolutely love the emphasis on Respect, Courtesy, Self Control - the importance of politeness, good manners, and appropriate behavior. What wonderful lessons, especially for this young 3-5 year old age group, to build their life long values on.

I enjoy the balance you give to teaching appropriate behavior along with teaching karate "moves". (BTW...I notice that my boys are showing more kindness lately, and I'm certain it is from what they have learned in your class! Courtesy and Respect are words we use on a daily basis now!)

Valerie Sato,
Torrance, Ca.

Dear Steve,

Thank you for providing such a wonderful program for children of all ages and abilites and we are very appreciative for what you were able to do.

- Provide a supportive and interactive program for children of various agea and abilities
- Demonstrate a pleasant and supportive demeanor with children
- Idenitify with a child's learning style and embraces it to help lead him/her to participate successfully.
- Hold their attention for hours of learning and fun.

Pam Hanson
Occupational Therapist
Pediatris Therapy Network

Dear Steve,

Sensei Steve's DVD "It's All About Character", and Karate program for children are worth while resources for parents to utilize in teaching their children the needed social skills to move successfully through life. Through positive reinforcement, leadership, and encouragement, Sensei Steve teaches children the tools needed to problem solve everyday life challenges ranging from peer relationships to building strong character anda positive self-image. With a focus on learning the importance of respect, patience, and self-discipline, children gain a sence between right and wrong.

Sensei Steve has a natural gift for transmitting these lessons of life to children of all ages. His dynamic and compassionate personality makes him an effective role model that leaves an everlasting impression. The skills taught will help children strive for autonomy and strong character. All of which are needed to help children feel self assured and confident in themselves in their daily lives.

As a social worker I have had the experience of working with a variety of children in the public school system as well as within the community. During this time I have come to realize many social problems that plague our youth of today, stem from little guidance, inadequate social skills, and from a diminished self-esteem. Many of the children I have worked with have lacked the proper skills needed to make sound decisions which often lead them to having a deprivation in the experience of forming positive social interpersonal relationships. Sensei Steve's program gives children the tools needed as such as proactive social skills, self control, self respect, and most importantly, self worth. Through physical exercise and developmentally appropriate activities, children gain these skills with little effort. As a parent and as a professional, I feel all children will benefit from participating in Sensei Steve's Karate program.

Amber Kito- Friekin, MSW

Dear Steve,

The Character devlopment training proved popular with the kids and the audience. My son wanted to play the "Sensei Says It's All About Character" for a long time after the program itself had ended at our library.

Ellen Cunningham, YSL,
Lomita Library

Dear Steve,

You have created a multi-faceted program of instruction which combines traditional martial arts teachings with sound developmental principles. Educationally, Sensei Says provides practice in psycho-motor movement and awareness by combining a series of repetitive postures with calm, clear, and concise explanation and direction.

Interspersed with the kaktas are the true meat of Sensei Says: the character building teachings of self growth through self discipline. Fun for children, reassuring for caregivers, and firmly rooted in a contemporary educational framework, Sensei Says is an excellent example of entertaining and substantive children's programming.

S.R. Jameson
Children's Librarian

Dear Sansei Steve:

Thank you so much for your efforts to teach my son more than just martial arts. I think it is so wonderful that you try so hard to teach the kids at the Southwest Karate and Akido Center a balanced outlook. "Courtesy", "Discipline", "Patience", "Leadership": these are just a few of the signs hung in your dojo which teach children morals that help make them good people and responsible citizens.

Yes, of course, I am impressed with the karate and akido skills you teach to the children. But even more importantly than karate and akido, you are teaching them values and qualities that will help them during their lifetimes. I am also very impressed how gracefully and respectfully you teach such a wide variety of children, some very young, others older, some who seem to learn the martial arts skills quickly and easily, others who appear to have to work harder to learn these skills, and some with learning or developmental disabilites.

Despite all these differences, the children--with your guidance--accept each other, respect each other, and yes, make some good friends. I am so glad that we stumbled upon your dojo, instead of one that teaches only martial arts and fails to recognize these other very important values. Thank you!!!

Sincerely,
Donna Yamashiro

Dear Mr. Gancherov,

It was a pleasure to read about your work with Barton Hill Elementary School.

Thank you for your commitment and dedication to the children in our community.

If I can ever be of service to you on this or any other state related matter, it would be my pleasure and honor to be of service to you.

Sinerely,
Jenny Oropeza

Dear Sensei Steve,

My son had been taking classes with you at the dojo for almost three months and his 5th birthday was coming up. We wanted to do something special for "Number 5" and you said he could have the party at the dojo. You promised to give us a party that we would never forget and that you would make our son a "superstar" at the party. You certainly kept your promises!

There were so many things that made this party special and truly unforgettable. We had 12 boys between the ages of 3 and 5 at the party and you were wonderful with them. You had so many great activities planned for them. I know a favorite was the Tug-Of-War and of course, the chance to spar with you and the coaches was something everyone enjoyed.

Every parent likes to see their child shine and you allowed our son to do that. You had him demonstrate some of the karate moves he had learned in your classes, as well as allowed him to help lead some of the activities. And the crowning moment was when he got to cut his birthday cake with a real samurai sword! I don't think anything could have topped that!

I also liked how you demonstrated to the boys the difference between rude and respectful behavior and how you encouraged them not to show violent behavior towards each other.

The parents of our party guests really enjoyed the party as well. I continue to hear what a "fantastic!" or "great!" or "fun!" party it was.

You really do have a way of connecting with children. From the most boisterous boy at our party to the shyest.they listened to you, they learned from you and they had fun with you. It was a great party for them as well as for our son.

We would like to thank you, Coach Armand, Coach John and Kana for all your hard work. It was the best birthday party ever!

Barbara and John Penhalegon

	Southwest Karate and Aikido Center
New Students Child Adult Schedule About Us Contact Us History Location Store Corporate Current Students	Child Testimonials Sensei, I have been wanting to write to you to tell you all the things I like about your Koi karate class that my son attends, but there are so many things that are great about it and I have been having trouble figuring out where to begin. :) But, finally, I think I can sum everything up. Obviously, karate is a great exercise for the body and it is also a wonderful way to learn things like self-control and patience. You are fantastic with these kids in helping them learn karate and all that it entails. On top of that, the one thing I think I like the best about you and your class is that everything is so positive. If the children are not behaving, they are not yelled at or shamed or emotionally beaten down, instead they are gently reminded of what they should be doing and then, given the chance to do it. And with this positive encouragement, the chlidren correct their own behavior and do what they are supposed to be doing. That is a fantastic atmosphere in which to learn! Also, I totally appreciate your perspective on the child as a whole. Again, it goes back to the positive atmosphere you have created in the dojo. You often see traits in a child that others (including parents) might consider to be negative, but you see the positive potential in them. An example I saw was when a child was constantly interrupting you. Most parents would have cringed and many adults would have snapped at the child. You were very patient, reminded the child that he needed to listen and he did. But afterward, you explained to his parent that this child has leadership ability and his interrupting was a demonstration of that. It was like the light bulb went on in my head! We, as parents, spend so much time trying to stop our kids here and now from doing what is considered to be negative behavior, that we don't often look to see what that might lead to in the future. A child who interrupts constantly could be facing some big troubles down the road, but if that child's ability to lead is recognized and then that child is trained in how to properly use that ability, then there is no telling what possibilities await this child down the road. I love that you have that perspective and that you have given me that perspective as well! My son is learning a lot from you, but I am learning a lot as well! Thank you! Barbara Penhalegon Dear Sensei Steve, I just wanted to thank you for the wonderful KOI program. It is rare to find an activitiy that both my 3 and 5 year old can participate in together. Your emphasis on character, self-esteem, and the history behind martial arts makes your dojo stand out head and shoulders above the rest that I have researched in the South Bay area. My sons have learned pride, self-restraint, and discipline in a fun atmosphere. We have been so impressed with your teaching style and the rigorous program that two other families from our preschool have joined. Perhaps the best part of being a part of the Southwest Dojo is that it feels like family; parents can watch and cheer on their students and my children often remark that Sensei would be proud of them for showing courtsey or good manners for something that they have done during the week. Thank you for giving my sons a great outlet for their energy and channeling it into producing fit young boys of great character! I forgot to tell you that the testimonial about the KOI program came from Patricia Mayer and that I am a teacher and have taught for 13 years. Thanks again for all that you do! Tricia :) (Alex and Christopher Bean's mom) San Pedro Dear Steve, You are a very professional in the way he conducts his sessions. I also appreciate the way he teaches about good character. What I mean by this is he teaches his students about hard work and being the best one can be. Yet, at the same time Mr. Gancherov teaches his students about having the up most respect for people which includes courtesy, humility, and helping one another whoever it may be whether in or out of the dojo. Mr. Gancherov gives the martial arts a great name. Bernhald Boegner, Wilmington, CA Dear Steve, My son has really enjoyed Sensei Steve and his class. I think his interest is due, in large part, to Sensei Steve's rapport with his class. He is an exceptional instructor in many ways. When it comes to setting a good example, no other instructor comes close. Lynn Granger, R.P.V., CA. Dear Steve, Since the day my five year old started karate at Southwest Karate, he has become so much more self confident. He is a very shy child and Sensei Steve has taught him, that he is strong, smart and important. Now, when he meets someone new, he is confident enough to introduce himself. I am sure that his karate has helped him and will continue to help him throughout his life. I can't thank Sensei Steve enough... Laura Bevan, Redondo Beach, CA. If you think Southwest Karate and Aikido is "just another dojo" -- think again! Steve Gancherov, or "Sensei Steve" as my nine year old daughter refers to him, has created a program which is much more than just karate. Sensei Steve uses Karate as a medium to teach children character, kindness, discipline, respect and most importantly non-violence and self control. He builds self esteem in an environment which paradoxically demands and expects respect and yet gently motivates kids to... My nine year old just loves to go to class and often quotes Steve at home with comments such as "Sensei says always be courteous ..."! As a pediatric emergency physician, soccer coach and father of three I know how hard it is to connect with kids these days to effect positive change. It takes patience and a true love of working with kids. Sensei Steve has created an "extended family" with his students and the bond of trust and dedication he has created with them motivates them to want to do well -- so "Sensei will be proud of me." Sensei Steve's methods have been proven to work with underprivileged youth as well. He created a program to work with severely at risk youth in the Barton Hill School in San Pedro. His techniques motivated kids who previously thought they had no chance and had largely been "written off" by others. Their grades improved and they learned self control and self esteem. It is so rare these days to find people who want to work with kids and are truly good at it -- Sensei Steve is just one of those people with a talent for coaching kids. For my daughter, Southwest Karate is much more than a dojo -- it is a place where she feels accepted and good about who she is. That she learns karate is just the icing on the cake -- she is learning so much more. She is internalizing and demonstrating in her daily life the concepts that Sensei Steve teaches and which have been the foundation of Shotokan Karate for ages. We are so fortunate to have made Sensei Steve and the others members of Southwest Karate a part of our "extended family"! Dave Amin, M.D. Director, Pediatric Emergency Medicine Little Company of Mary Hospital-Torrance Dear Steve, My two daughters, ages 3 and 5, are so excited to be learning karate from you and look forward to class each week. They come home and practice the different skills throughout the week. When I signed them up for karate, I wanted them to learn the basics and to acquire a few self-defense skills. I was pleasantly surprised that the classes not only cover a variety of techniques but also go beyond that in that it develops different areas of the self, which is extremely critical at this early stage in their lives. My daughters are learning "big" words like respect, discipline, and character. What I like is that you also emphasize good listening skills, which is extremely helpful in the home and classroom. The class is taught in a strict, yet fun and silly way. It is very age-appropriate and the kids are learning and practicing their skills in a setting that emphasizes respect for others but at the same time lets them have fun. My daughters are also amazed and awed by the swords, sticks, and other neat karate "stuff" that they work with, things that they would only otherwise see on TV. Although my girls are still young, the karate outfits and moves they are learning make them feel "cool." For me as a mother, it gives me comfort knowing that they are participating in something that develops their self and safety skills, something we can't seem to get enough of. This class is truly something worthwhile for kids of all ages. Thank you for having such valuable and fun classes for my kids! M. Yoo Torrance, California Dear Steve, I am very happy with your class and as a parent, absolutely love the emphasis on Respect, Courtesy, Self Control - the importance of politeness, good manners, and appropriate behavior. What wonderful lessons, especially for this young 3-5 year old age group, to build their life long values on. I enjoy the balance you give to teaching appropriate behavior along with teaching karate "moves". (BTW...I notice that my boys are showing more kindness lately, and I'm certain it is from what they have learned in your class! Courtesy and Respect are words we use on a daily basis now!) Valerie Sato, Torrance, Ca. Dear Steve, Thank you for providing such a wonderful program for children of all ages and abilites and we are very appreciative for what you were able to do. - Provide a supportive and interactive program for children of various agea and abilities - Demonstrate a pleasant and supportive demeanor with children - Idenitify with a child's learning style and embraces it to help lead him/her to participate successfully. - Hold their attention for hours of learning and fun. Pam Hanson Occupational Therapist Pediatris Therapy Network Dear Steve, Sensei Steve's DVD "It's All About Character", and Karate program for children are worth while resources for parents to utilize in teaching their children the needed social skills to move successfully through life. Through positive reinforcement, leadership, and encouragement, Sensei Steve teaches children the tools needed to problem solve everyday life challenges ranging from peer relationships to building strong character anda positive self-image. With a focus on learning the importance of respect, patience, and self-discipline, children gain a sence between right and wrong. Sensei Steve has a natural gift for transmitting these lessons of life to children of all ages. His dynamic and compassionate personality makes him an effective role model that leaves an everlasting impression. The skills taught will help children strive for autonomy and strong character. All of which are needed to help children feel self assured and confident in themselves in their daily lives. As a social worker I have had the experience of working with a variety of children in the public school system as well as within the community. During this time I have come to realize many social problems that plague our youth of today, stem from little guidance, inadequate social skills, and from a diminished self-esteem. Many of the children I have worked with have lacked the proper skills needed to make sound decisions which often lead them to having a deprivation in the experience of forming positive social interpersonal relationships. Sensei Steve's program gives children the tools needed as such as proactive social skills, self control, self respect, and most importantly, self worth. Through physical exercise and developmentally appropriate activities, children gain these skills with little effort. As a parent and as a professional, I feel all children will benefit from participating in Sensei Steve's Karate program. Amber Kito- Friekin, MSW Dear Steve, The Character devlopment training proved popular with the kids and the audience. My son wanted to play the "Sensei Says It's All About Character" for a long time after the program itself had ended at our library. Ellen Cunningham, YSL, Lomita Library Dear Steve, You have created a multi-faceted program of instruction which combines traditional martial arts teachings with sound developmental principles. Educationally, Sensei Says provides practice in psycho-motor movement and awareness by combining a series of repetitive postures with calm, clear, and concise explanation and direction. Interspersed with the kaktas are the true meat of Sensei Says: the character building teachings of self growth through self discipline. Fun for children, reassuring for caregivers, and firmly rooted in a contemporary educational framework, Sensei Says is an excellent example of entertaining and substantive children's programming. S.R. Jameson Children's Librarian Dear Sansei Steve: Thank you so much for your efforts to teach my son more than just martial arts. I think it is so wonderful that you try so hard to teach the kids at the Southwest Karate and Akido Center a balanced outlook. "Courtesy", "Discipline", "Patience", "Leadership": these are just a few of the signs hung in your dojo which teach children morals that help make them good people and responsible citizens. Yes, of course, I am impressed with the karate and akido skills you teach to the children. But even more importantly than karate and akido, you are teaching them values and qualities that will help them during their lifetimes. I am also very impressed how gracefully and respectfully you teach such a wide variety of children, some very young, others older, some who seem to learn the martial arts skills quickly and easily, others who appear to have to work harder to learn these skills, and some with learning or developmental disabilites. Despite all these differences, the children--with your guidance--accept each other, respect each other, and yes, make some good friends. I am so glad that we stumbled upon your dojo, instead of one that teaches only martial arts and fails to recognize these other very important values. Thank you!!! Sincerely, Donna Yamashiro Dear Mr. Gancherov, It was a pleasure to read about your work with Barton Hill Elementary School. Thank you for your commitment and dedication to the children in our community. If I can ever be of service to you on this or any other state related matter, it would be my pleasure and honor to be of service to you. Sinerely, Jenny Oropeza Dear Sensei Steve, My son had been taking classes with you at the dojo for almost three months and his 5th birthday was coming up. We wanted to do something special for "Number 5" and you said he could have the party at the dojo. You promised to give us a party that we would never forget and that you would make our son a "superstar" at the party. You certainly kept your promises! There were so many things that made this party special and truly unforgettable. We had 12 boys between the ages of 3 and 5 at the party and you were wonderful with them. You had so many great activities planned for them. I know a favorite was the Tug-Of-War and of course, the chance to spar with you and the coaches was something everyone enjoyed. Every parent likes to see their child shine and you allowed our son to do that. You had him demonstrate some of the karate moves he had learned in your classes, as well as allowed him to help lead some of the activities. And the crowning moment was when he got to cut his birthday cake with a real samurai sword! I don't think anything could have topped that! I also liked how you demonstrated to the boys the difference between rude and respectful behavior and how you encouraged them not to show violent behavior towards each other. The parents of our party guests really enjoyed the party as well. I continue to hear what a "fantastic!" or "great!" or "fun!" party it was. You really do have a way of connecting with children. From the most boisterous boy at our party to the shyest.they listened to you, they learned from you and they had fun with you. It was a great party for them as well as for our son. We would like to thank you, Coach Armand, Coach John and Kana for all your hard work. It was the best birthday party ever! Barbara and John Penhalegon
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