Name of your school:
Red Tail Karate
Name/rank of the Chief Instructor:
Benjamin (Ben) Carpick, E Dan
How many years have you personally been affiliated with the WTSDA?
13 years (since 2012)
When did your club/studio/school begin?
2022
What is your martial arts background/training history?
I have ~ 6 months of Goju-Ryu Karate when I was 14-15 years old. Otherwise my focus has been WTSDA.
What is the origin of your club/studio/school? (Location, previous Chief Instructor, etc.)?
I was pushed fell out of the eagles nest and landed with a group of Red Tail Hawks, thus began my journey as a chief instructor
Current number of active students and frequency of classes:
I currently have 11 Students. Classes meet twice a week (Tues & Thurs) at Saddlebrook Community Center and School in Omaha Nebraska. I also like to invite guest instructors as they are available to provide diversity and demonstrate that WTSDA is more than just my small school in a community center.
What is your favorite aspect of martial arts to train in (Weapons, hyung, one-steps, etc.) and what do you enjoy teaching most (content, population, etc.?
I enjoy all the aspects, but my preference is in 1-steps because working with a partner forces things into focus. Maintaining timing, distance, and control in a dynamic environment.
I enjoy teaching kids between 10 and 18 most as in my school experience, they seem to be most interested in learning and are generally less distracted.
What personal or martial arts goals are you currently working towards?
I am currently training towards my Sam Dan and exploring Split Second Survival
Who are the biggest influences on your martial arts journey?
My first influence was my first instructor in GoJu-Ryu, Shihan John Rosenberry. My biggest influence thus far is Mr Doug Lewis as a friend, co-worker and eventually instructor, I have learned to navigate physical and personal challenges by training, discussing, and observing.
Please share any achievements that your students or school have accomplished that make you proud.
Having students compete at a regional event and being able to punch the regional director makes me proud.
