Jacksonville Martial Arts

2012-01-02T06:16:00.000-08:00

STICK and KNIFE WORKSHOP

Location, Date and Time:
The System Wing Chun Gung Fu training facility
6955 Hwy 17 suit 206, Fleming Island, FL 32003
Saturday, February 18th @ 2-4:30pm

Topics covered:
Orientation on Stick and Knife
Empty hand against Stick and Knife
Baston Drills and Stikes
Knife on Knife fighting and disarms

Fees: $40.00 in advance, and $50.00 day of workshop

What to bring:
(2) bastons , (1) firm, blunt, practice knife , notebook and
anything else you will require for your workout.
NO CAMERAS DURING THE WORKSHOP, PHOTO'S
CAN BE TAKEN AFTER WORKSHOP HAS CONCLUDED.

Who May Come:
Everyone is invited. Any Stick and Knife enthusiast who would like to
learn about these weapons. This is a beginner to intermediate workshop.

Contacts for reservations: 386-227-8159 , The System Wing Chun Gung Fu

This workshop will be given by Sifu Bill Graves. Who has studied and
trained Arnis from 2 masters, Benjeem Mateem and Joe DeGuzman.

© Jacksonville Martial Arts

Jacksonville's martial arts source for Wing Chun Kung Fu (Wing Chun Gung Fu).

Keywords: Jacksonville Martial Arts, Jacksonville Kung Fu, Jacksonville Wing Chun, Martial Arts Jacksonville, Martial Arts Orange Park, Kung Fu Jacksonville, Jax Martial Arts, Martial Arts Jax, Wing Chun in Jacksonville, Wing Chun Kung Fu Jacksonville, Wing Chun Gung Fu Jacksonville.

Armando Sainz

2011-07-07T04:49:00.000-07:00

I would like to start out by letting everyone know the "TRUE" facts about Sifu Armando Sainz. He was a student of mine, Sifu Bill Graves, and mine ALONE. He trained with my Sifu Karl Godwin less than 24 hours in 12 years, this doesn't entitle him to refer to Sifu Godwin in any other manner than Sigung. Armando had Sifu Godwin give 2 seminars at the Centerline Academy over the 8 year period in which this facility was open. These 4 interactions with my Sifu Karl Godwin doesn't entitle Sainz to refer to Karl as "his instructor", as it is written in the Macon County News Paper.To verify this, all you have to do is look at the Seminole Wing Chun website, and see that Sainz is "NOT" listed anywhere. Sainz has a propensity to "EMBELLISH" his martial arts history as he sees fit. Sifu Karl Godwin never certified Sainz on his wooden dummy form, as he writes on his web site, Innovative wing chun. I certified Sainz in the wooden dummy form, and he never truly finished all of the training that I offer with this form. Sainz was "Never" the "Sihing" of any of my public classes, Sifu Jonathan Petree was the acting Sihing of my public group when Sainz joined. As a matter of fact, in chronological order, Sainz was the "LAST" senior student in the senior group of 8 seniors that I had certified. He did learn the curriculum that I had offered at that time which he trained. Sainz did train with me for a period of 12 years, although the last 3 years consisted of very sparse training, here and there, nothing consistent. Sainz developed some very good fighting skills, yet he isn't the teacher that he claims to be. Sainz learned some very basic Ju-Jitsu skills from me and proceeded to develop a natural wing chun defense which he refers to as "anti-grappling". Upon the dismantling of Centerline Academy, he left a wake of very confused and misinformed as well as improperly trained students in the Neptune beach area where his school did exist for 8 years.There were only 4 students that Sainz trained that advanced to any recognizable maturity Roger Simmons, Robert Nunes, Timothy Faughn and Casey Curley. Only Nunes continues to train with Sainz. Casey had come to me to seek better training about 1 1/2 years before the Centerline facility closed, Roger Simmons and Casey Curley are Sihing of my school at this time, and Tim Faughn trains there presently as well. The last 2 years of the existence of the Centerline Academy Sainz was rarely in attendance of his own classes and left them to be run by his Sihing Tim Faughn. As a matter of fact , quoted by one of his former students," I never saw Armando unless he was trying to drum up new students or giving interviews to new prospective students". The energy within the school of which he praises, Centerline Academy, was in decline and failed badly.
After a " falling out" and mutual disrespect for one another, I can no longer endorse or support this Sainz in any of his endeavours. Sainz is not recognized under my lineage any more. In the words of Sainz," who needs that lineage crap, it doesn't matter to me and I have no respect for it!". Sainz always had a desire to do things on his own, and now he will have too. Sainz has burnt most of the bridges he had in the Jacksonville area between the people he was involved with in the martial arts and friends of his as well. The only relationships he has in Jacksonville are the one's with his PAYING STUDENTS. And of course, they will say good things about him and he will do good by them, as long as they are PAYING. And though Sainz will dispute these statements, everyone that knows Sainz in the Jacksonville area, knows that this is true.
This article isn't about hurting the reputation of Armando Sainz, yet to properly inform people of his "TRUE" wing chun history and the facts of his real legacy. I can't attest to any other of his claims or deny them, but I've known Sainz since the late Ninties, and I can refute his wing chun history. Greed, Fame and Power are things that can truly corrupt an individual, and when a person alters the truth enough, they begin to believe those alterations. At that point the individual is truly lost.
Since this article was written, Sainz has responded to me. I have several emails which show the "True" nature of the supposedly "Religious" Sainz. He has threatened to slander me or as he put it, "Make it his Life's work to drag your name through the mud". It really puts a "Bad Taste" in my mouth, when people hide behind religion to manipulate things as they see fit. Obviously this is the Sainz character in every aspect. As I stated earlier in this blog, ANYONE THAT KNOWS SAINZ, KNOWS THIS TO BE TRUE. I hope I will not have to post the last series of emails that he wrote me.

© Jacksonville Martial Arts

Jacksonville's martial arts source for Wing Chun Kung Fu (Wing Chun Gung Fu).

Keywords: Jacksonville Martial Arts, Jacksonville Kung Fu, Jacksonville Wing Chun, Martial Arts Jacksonville, Martial Arts Orange Park, Kung Fu Jacksonville, Jax Martial Arts, Martial Arts Jax, Wing Chun in Jacksonville, Wing Chun Kung Fu Jacksonville, Wing Chun Gung Fu Jacksonville.

2011 SEMINAR SEASON

2011-06-20T05:24:00.000-07:00

The first seminar of this year was terrific. The trip out to San Clemente, in beautiful southern California was such a success. After a long day, Friday of private lessons with 7 of the Dragons Institute students, their Sifu Adam Willis and I went for a sandwich and some well deserved adult beverages. Sifu Adam is one of my senior students and the owner operator of the Dragon's Institute located in San Clemente. Saturday was the day of the "Chi sao" workshop / seminar. I was asked to focus on Chi Sao as the main topic for the 3rd Annual Bill Graves Seminar. I wasn't sure if Sifu Adam and the group had understood what they've gotten themselves into by asking for this topic. I began with the basic intro, about how I use chi sao as a tool to appraise the abilities of my opposition. Chi sao, the way it was taught to me by my Sifu Karl Godwin isn't something to be taken lightly and used incorrectly or abused. We cherish our Chi sao like a fine wine, we don't crack open the bottle, drink some and pore water into it to keep it full. Obviously this will dilute the quality. Instead we practice it with great focus as to develop it gradually and "let it age properly" within us. We don't just practice Chi Sao with anyone or any other line that can't play our game properly. We use our chi sao to find the "weaknesses" in our opposition, whether it be our brother and sister students or someone else. As soon as the weakness is found it is "ACTED" upon. With this type of training, your never caught off guard or waiting on someone else to capitalize off your mistakes. We are always working on making our chi sao the best it can possibly be.
The seminar continued with this practice in mind as we covered the intricacies of chi sao, the bridges of chi sao and most importantly, open cycle chi sao. I know that every ones' shoulders were dragging around their waists by the end of the 6 hour workshop, but I know everyone left with a smile on their face and thanks and praise in their words. I too want to thank the Dragon's Insitute for having me out again this year, and I'm looking forward to next years visit already.
Next Seminar is Zurich, Switzerland.....September 9th thru 18th........

The New Schools outlook and progress

2011-05-22T16:25:00.000-07:00

It has only been 2 weeks, yet the school atmoshpere is one of hard work and humility. Everyone is practicing great wing chun and getting the training that each and every one was looking for. I will also add that we are growing in numbers. Next month 2 new people are starting down the path of true growth. I try to enlighten people and make them aware of the dangers that lurk out there in the world, without making them paranoid of every little thing. Awareness is the key to this enlightenment. Being aware of your immediate environment is the true key. Don't take things for granted, don't present yourself as a "victim" in the eye's of a would be predator. These are some of the things that average martial arts schools don't readily cover. All of this is supported by good training in the art, my art of Wing Chun. Looking forward to the oncoming months and yes, hopefully years , back teaching thru the public venue. For years I only taught privately and gave seminars to the schools in my network, but now I'm back teaching the public again. Remember, AWARENESS is the key to your safety and the safety of your loved ones.

2011-05-08T06:51:00.000-07:00

The time is now. The school is open for business. The first class is Monday May 9th. The class time is 7 pm. Everything has been completed business wise, the facility will be prepared to a state which will allow us to begin training. There will be things that haven't been completed yet, but in a few weeks things will be done. We've waited for so long I can't waite any longer to have a "proper" Grand opening. I don't really think anyone will mind the subtle disarray for the time being. Glad to make this announcement. I hope everyone shows up and make this a tremendous first class.....I would like to thank everyone who helped in this endeavour, my wife and son, all the charter students: Danny McAvity, David Schweppe, Mike Wallace, Ben Marshall, Roberto Lagos and most of all Andrew Peri. Thanks Andy for all your help and support, the construction on the site is fantastic, thanks so much. Remember there are only a few positions left, I have 3 interviews to perform in the next few days. This will leave only 5 spots left, and I will be closing the roster. At that time, a waiting list will be appropriated and prospective students will have to waite there turn as opening arise, if they arise. Thanks again, and let's all practice great KUNG FU.... Sifu Bill Graves...... THE SYSTEM WING CHUN GUNG FU.

2011-04-22T17:13:00.000-07:00

I'm proud to let everyone know that the new facility for The System Wing Chun Gung Fu will be open May 2nd. The physical location for the facility is 206 Hibernia Plaza, Flemming Island, 32003. This is about 10-15 minutes south on Hwy 17 from Hwy 295. Also, 1 stoplight north of Green Cove Springs ( the Black Creek Bridge). I've been working on this for a while and it has finally come to fruition. There are very few positions left in the public class. Privates will continue for those students who train privately with me. And ANY previous students or students of my existing students may drop in on any class for a small "drop in " fee. THIS IS THE HOME of the BEST WING CHUN in North Florida and South Georgia. I am the foremost authority of Wing Chun in this region, no one else can make this claim but me.I have established my name and my abilities in this area for over 20yrs. The others in the Jacksonville area are either my students or teaching inferior forms of Wing Chun. If you want to learn from the best you will train with me, Sifu Bill Graves at THE SYSTEM WING CHUN GUNG FU. I will serve all of Orange Park, West Side, Jacksonville, All the beaches area, Green Cove Springs, Palatka and St. Augustine. If you don't get in now, don't dismay, you can get on a waiting list and as soon a position opens up, you will be called to fill it in the order you fall on the list. Call now for more information....386-227-8159...DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY, CALL TODAY.

2011-04-10T06:44:00.000-07:00

I'm very pleased to say that the new site has been approved, and the paperwork will be gone over this coming Monday the 11th of April. Upon approval by me, the arrangement will continue and I should have a key this coming week. I will need to have the building inspected and the electricity turned on, but the new facility should be open within 2 weeks. I want to thank everyone for their patients and support. This means a public facility for the best wing chun in north Florida will be open for business. The new facility is located in the Hybernia area on south hwy 17, just south of Flemming Island, 1 block south of Hybernia road, in the Hybernia Plaza. Classes will be very small, consisting of 16-20 people. Once the roster is full, and I now have 14 people signed up and ready to train, I will start a waiting list. Once a position opens up the next individual on the list will be contacted. I want small classes, with a more personal feel. Privates will be available, and drop in fee will be for those individuals from the other schools in my network that would like to train from time to time.It's a very exciting time for Wing chun in the Orange Park area.........let's all practice great Gung Fu !!

© Jacksonville Martial Arts Jacksonville's martial arts source for Wing Chun Kung Fu (Wing Chun Gung Fu). Keywords: Jacksonville Martial Arts, Jacksonville Kung Fu, Jacksonville Wing Chun, Martial Arts Jacksonville, Martial Arts Orange Park, Kung Fu Jacksonville, Jax Martial Arts, Martial Arts Jax, Wing Chun in Jacksonville, Wing Chun Kung Fu Jacksonville, Wing Chun Gung Fu Jacksonville.

2011-03-19T14:24:00.000-07:00

I haven't been on my blog in quit a while. Many things have gone on without reporting them. The biggest thing that is happening in Jacksonville wing chun is The System Wing Chun Gung Fu will have a new location very soon. This location will be on hwy 17 south of Orange Park and a little south of the Flemming Island area. The address isn't locked in yet, but soon will be. The School will have a limited membership, and there are 6 Charter members. The total capacity will be 18 - 20 people. After the roster is filled there will be a waiting list of interested people who will be contacted when an opening arises. Keep up with this website for further information about class days, times and costs. Thanks so much for being patient, we will be in buisness within 30-45 days from now. Sometime in April or at the latest May.........Sifu Bill Graves

The New School

2010-08-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

I have returned from Switzerland. I enjoyed my trip very much. Seen all the old students at the Tong Lu school and met the new ones. Also, met Grandmaster Jeurg Zeigler, he and I have been trying to meet now for over a year. This meeting was very good, and I enjoyed our discussions about martial arts and about the people in the arts. I hope to continue with this relationship, even though it is a long distant one, still a good one to keep.
I've contacted the realtor and I'm waiting on some of the findings of the contractors involved in this process, as well as the building owner in order to sign a lease, but all looks good and the deal will continue. So keep up on the details thru facebook and this website for future info. Looking to hopefully start by October at the latest...............

Reverse Wooden Dummy with Metronome

2010-08-25T17:42:00.000-07:00

Here is Karl Godwin demonstrating the traditional Wing Chun mook jong (wooden dummy) form.... IN REVERSE! This is one of the modern training methods required for Karl's upper level students. Plus, Karl performs the dummy with the added difficulty of a metronome for the student's increased timing development. He does this at 120 bps.

Trip to Zurich and New School has been located in Orange Park

2010-08-15T06:57:00.000-07:00

I've got some great news, I've possibly found another location for the new school in Orange Park. I've made a deal with the Realitor and everything is in the works. If this happens, this will be the largest school in square feet that I've ever had, over 2000 sqft. I'm very excited, this location has many great possibilities. I just can't believe the size of it. I don't want to give myself any bad luck , so that is all I'm going to say right now. Upon my return from Zurich I will finalize the deal with my new landlord and have more information about it.

I'm going to Zurich, Switzerland for my annual trip to teach at the Tong Lu school. I will have 2 scheduled seminars, 1 each Saturday that I'm there. Also, I will be teaching the regular classes as guest instructor, and will be giving private lessons all week to those who wish to train with me. While there I will be meeting with one of the biggest martial arts personalities in Europe, Grandmaster Jeurg Ziegler. He has several schools all throughout Europe, and hopefully we can establish a new business relationship while I'm there.

I love the trip to Zurich, and can't wait to go. Looking forward in seeing all the familiar faces and meeting all of the new people now involved with the Tong Lu school. Remember, I will give an update on the new location when I return.........

Everyone Keep up the training,

Sifu Bill Graves

The Seminar at The Dragons Institute in Dana Point

2010-08-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

Just got back from my trip to Southern California, and it was fantastic. Met all the new people and caught up with the familiar faces out there. I hope the seminar went well, I received a lot of great feedback. I do believe that all who attended were satisfied well beyond their expectations. And as always, thanks so much to Adam and his wife Elisabeth, you guy's are the best. I'm always treated so well there. Looking forward to the next trip.

Also, a little note about my seniors in the line, Steve and Sandy Wong, It was so good to see them , we had a very nice lunch and great conversation. Thanks for coming down from San Fransisco to spend the afternoon.

Trip Overseas

2010-08-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for my annual trip to Switzerland. I look forward to this trip , and this is my second annual visit to the Tong Lu School. I will have a full 10 days , as I will have 2 seminars, I will be teaching the regular classes during the week as well as giving privates all week long. Can't waite, looking forward to seeing Guido Stingel, Roger Quendoz and Pia Stingel. These people are great students, good practitioners, and dear friends. See you guy's soon................

The New School

2010-08-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm very saddened by the results of my building inspection. The new facility failed the inspection, I have to have a men's and women's restroom. As of 2010 there can't be a unisex bathroom in the type of buisness that I offer. The search is on for a facility that will suit my needs. After returning from Switzerland at the end of August I will hopefully find this place. My goal is to have a new place, and be operational by October. I'm sorry for my students who have to wait a little longer, just hang in there.

It works because it's different.

2010-07-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

I generally try to stay away from promoting what I do, but this is significant.
Yesterday, a pupil of mine had to use his gongfu to defend himself in a genuine self-defense scenario. The feedback was clear: it happened exactly like I said it would and his training worked exactly as it should.

So I would like to take this opportunity to make note of something that very few martial artists and even fewer martial art teachers address: There are plenty of times where an altercation is nothing more than an egotistical brawl. A real threat is different. There are several concerns that do not come up in a brawl and the consequences of losing are usually far greater.

Likewise, there are plenty of martial art schools that can teach someone to merely brawl or fistfight well. (There are also, of course, plenty of schools that can teach merely an art-form as a worthwhile a hobby). But if someone wants to learn something different - how to neutralize a genuine threat before it starts or gets out of hand, or manage it when it is out of control - there are very few places this can be learned.

To my knowledge, only two such places exist in Florida: The System Wing Chun in Jacksonville and Seminole Wing Chun (www.floridawingchun.com) in Orlando.

The unique take on a traditional art these schools have provided me, has proven itself where the rubber meets the road, more than once, for me and for those who have trained with me.

~jesse

© Jacksonville Martial Arts

Jacksonville's martial arts source for Wing Chun Kung Fu (Wing Chun Gung Fu).

Keywords: Jacksonville Martial Arts, Jacksonville Kung Fu, Jacksonville Wing Chun, Martial Arts Jacksonville, Martial Arts Orange Park, Kung Fu Jacksonville, Jax Martial Arts, Martial Arts Jax, Wing Chun in Jacksonville, Wing Chun Kung Fu Jacksonville, Wing Chun Gung Fu Jacksonville.

New Location

2010-07-13T18:22:00.000-07:00

The new location will officially open August 2nd. The address is 1280 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, Fl 32065

Class days and times: Mondays & Wednesdays @ 7pm-9pm , Saturdays @3pm-6pm and Privates can be set up at any time.

Were starting off with a good group of 10 people and I'm going to maintain smaller classes for closer and more personal instruction, so get signed up early to guarantee your spot. This is the best wing chun in the region, and you'll be training with the foremost authority of the Leung Sheung line of Wing Chun in North Florida.

The System Wing Chun Gung Fu
1280 Blanding Blvd.
Orange Park, FL 32065

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New Orange Park location

2010-07-03T05:13:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I've written in this blog......My life has completely changed. I have a new job since March of 2010, and it has consumed all of my time. But now, I've finished my probationary period and have secured my new job,and I'm ready to get back to what I love to do, teach wing chun gung fu. I've found a new location in Orange Park Florida, and will be opening a school in July . The new location will be on south Blanding blvd. I have 2 to choose from and will make my decision today. I will post the new information when I have it, which should be by July 10th. Please keep checking for it. There will be a new website for the new school and I will have all the info very soon...........I'm very excited, so everyone keep watching for the new info on The system's location......................

Jacksonville Martial Arts

The "New" wing chun class.........

2010-01-19T07:39:00.000-08:00

This newly organized group here at Atlantic Beach is having growing pains. The group has another new student joining after last nights participation. Also, another new prospect will be attending this coming Monday evening. I'm very pleased with the interest that has been shown, as well as the shape this new class is taking. This class is being taken over with females, that's right, the women out number the men. These ladies are hungry to learn self-defense thru wing chun. Glad to see this transpiring, some what elusive trying to get females into hard training, but this group of women are showing some real promise and potential. Not to leave out the men, we're having a great turnout as well.

This new class, as well as all of my instruction, is structure based, with the emphasis on internal development and positional value. My wing chun is based on internal development, unlike the common wing chun found available everywhere. These new students are already showing signs of understanding how the true training and considerations of practice are emphasized. Looks like a good start for 2010, let's keep this up. I still have 3 positions left to be filled, don't wait, get in on the ground level of this class and learn the "true" wing chun, and how it is supposed to be used.
© Jacksonville Martial Arts

New Wing Chun class

2010-01-05T05:47:00.000-08:00

The brand new class of beginners has started in Atlantic Beach as of yesterday evening. It would appear that our new group of people are ready to begin their journey down the path of wing chun. A very good start in attendance for the new class of 9, 8 people started with 1 more person starting next week. As I looked around the kwoon last night I noticed enthusiastic faces intently listening and watching every move I made. The sweet smell of the beginning, truly a great feeling. I hope to lead these individuals down there path and teach them the things that wing chun has to offer. I'm eagerly expecting these people to develop, and mature with this class. I always love the transformation people make when they learn wing chun, the confidence that develops and the fantastic self-esteem that develops. Always look forward to taking people down this path...............Wing Chun, gotta love it, I do...................

The Swiss are here.................

2010-01-05T05:38:00.000-08:00

My students who represent me and my line from Zurich, Switzerland are here visiting. These guy's run the Tong Lu School in Zurich and have adopted me as there Sifu as of a year ago. We make trip's once a year each to train, they come here to learn from me, and I go there once a year to teach them. Presently they are here in "Sunny Florida", present temperature is 29 degree's, to get there training in. Last week on Wednesday I took them down to Sanford Florida to train with my Sifu Karl Godwin, They enjoyed themselves thoroughly. Talking about there trip a week later, they had such a good time. We have a daily training session, and they're also training Tuesday and Thursday with my Advanced Class. Needless to say, they're having a great trip to the US, and training in the wing chun that they now love.
© Jacksonville Martial Arts

Beginner Classes

2009-12-09T06:11:00.000-08:00

I was hoping to start the "NEW" beginner's class in December, but didn't have the initial response to get it started. I now have enough people to get the class started and have a few more interviews lined up for this week. I project the start of this class in January, so now is the time to get your foot in the door and reserve your place in this class. This is a great opportunity to get involved in the most comprehensive wing chun class in the North Florida, South Georgia region. I am the foremost authority of wing chun in this area, learn from the best. I guarantee you will not be disappointed, join now. Develope that "quiet confidence" , be self-assured about your ability to defend yourself, never be afraid again of being in public and not knowing what to do when the situation arises. Learn one of the best martial arts in the world, in a great atmosphere with others who have the same determinations and desires as you. Get off the "couch" and get active, learn self-defence, the wing chun way. Contact Sifu Bill Graves at 904-762-8741 or 904-241-4764 or e-mail tailfins@bellsouth.net
© Jacksonville Martial Arts

Stick and Knife Workshop

2009-11-18T06:50:00.000-08:00

This coming Saturday, from 12 noon to 3 pm a stick and knife workshop will be held in Atlantic Beach. This is a beginners workshop dealing with Espada- dagga ( baston and knife). Topics of the workshop are, familiarity with the baston and knife,13 strikes, sinawalli, 1 blocking and striking drill, 5 or 6 disarms with variations when covering the knife, and empty hand against the knife. The fee, and location for the workshop will be disclosed when you contact Bill Graves 904-762-4764 or e-mail......tailfins@bellsouth.net. There is limited space, so get in on this while you can.

NEW PUBLIC CLASS

2009-11-02T09:41:00.000-08:00

Starting December 1, 2009 , I will be offering my first beginners public class in over 15 years. This class is for everyone over the age of 16, male and female. The best instruction in the art of wing chun in north Florida. I am the foremost authority of wing chun in the north Florida, south Georgia region. Bringing wing chun to Jacksonville since 1988. Located at the beaches in Jacksonville since 1991. I've trained and practiced wing chun since 1982, under my Instructor Karl Godwin. Learn the best in what wing chun has to offer. Train with the best. Contact me, Sifu Bill Graves thru e-mail...... tailfins@bellsouth.net.... or call 904-241-4764 or 904-762-8741

RESPECT

2009-10-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

When one begins training in the martial arts, a relationship is formed between a teacher and a student. This relationship may evolve into more of a friendship over the span of time, this is a natural evolution. My instructor, Karl Godwin , and I have such a relationship. When a teacher decides to take on a student, he has to consider all the consequences of this endeavour. Now a days I personally go thru an interview process to make sure that all aspects are covered and all considerations are taken by both me and the future student. Both parties need to know what they're getting into when taking on this union. Unfortunately, sometimes things change and people change. After a 12 year relationship I have now been put in an awkward position and can no longer support or endorse one of my elder students, Armando Sainz. Although I was his instructor , I do not look at things the way he does, and our relationship has come to an untimely end. Good luck to you and your family, and I hope only the best for you and yours.

HARD CORE STAND-UP SEMINAR

2009-10-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

Wednesday the 21st of October, I was asked to give a seminar on stand-up fighting . I was approached to give this seminar to a MMA group here at the Beaches area in Jacksonville, Florida. I agreed to do this having no expectations on the outcome or interests of these individuals. I must tell you I was thoroughly surprised at the turn out. I was met with "open arms" as this group of men began to learn my art's unique perspective on fighting on your feet. These guys train in the art of Bjj and have incorporated styles such as Muay Thai and boxing to supplement their stand up range. When introduced to my wing chun, they responded very well, and soon became enamored with what they were being shown. They were taught how to flow with energy rather than resist it, how to move inside of the energy as opposed to struggling with it. They learned posturing and footwork to compliment their efforts and not to hamper them. The last half of the seminar was focused on learning my art's best punching technique, the 1 inch punch. Everyone was highly impressed with this technique. As always , I guaranteed that their punching power would increase 50 to 100% within the time it took to learn this punch, the group was quite impressed. All in all I had a fantastic seminar with a very nice group of guys. I want to thank everyone who attended, and thank you Dean and Bob for having me, it was truly a blast.

Hardcore Stand-up Seminar

2009-10-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

This next seminar will be centered around stand-up fighting applications from wing chun. I was approached by a professional MMA ring fighter about improving his stand-up abilities. This individual had met me years ago, attended one of my seminars and trained with one of my senior students, he came to me seeking assistance with his "stand-up fighting ". He had won all of his fights on the ground, where he was confident in his abilities. This fighter didn't share his confidence with his stand-up fighting ability, only having basic boxing and muay thai, he was looking for something else, something different from what was available. This person approached me after remembering his training in wing chun, and I assured him that he came to the right place. Now, from training with me only a few times, he has noticed a major improvement. He came back to me and mentioned how people who he trains with have noticed a difference in him, he has become more difficult to hit, how his structure has become harder to penetrate. From his few lessons he has suggested that I give a seminar on this subject so others might be able to benefit from wing chun.

Hardcore Stand-Up Seminar
Location: 18 west 3rd street, Atlantic Beach
Date and Time: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 6:30pm -- 8:30pm
Fee: $25.00 per person
Contacts: call 904-525-0917 or 904-762-8741 for early registration
© Jacksonville Martial Arts

The Swiss Group

2009-09-08T06:35:00.000-07:00

A quick note from Sifu Bill Graves

When I went to Switzerland to teach these folks I was very worried about how I would be received. I had only met Guido, Roger and Pia 3 times before the trip. I didn't really know them, and they didn't know me. After arriving in their lovely country and staying with them for the first week, I could tell that this was going to be the start of something special. Guido and Roger, who are the instructors of their school, Tong Lu Wu Shu in Bergdietikon, Switzerland, had came to America to search out a better line of wing chun than what they had been training in. They came here to train with my senior student Armando Sainz, after searching him out on the Internet. They, Guido, Roger and Pia ( Guido's sister and a 10 year practitioner) studied with Armando for 1 month. Armando gave these folks a great introduction to our line of wing chun and they loved it. So much so, they took it back to their students to teach them what they had learned. When I organized my trip to visit them, I wasn't sure how things were going in Switzerland, and wanted to go over and solidify our relationship with them. When in Switzerland, I was approached about continuing to teach them from my line of wing chun. I agreed to train them as "my" personal students, they were elated, and accepted my offer.

Now I'm are forging ahead with what appears to be a start of a great relationship with the Swiss. I will be going to Switzerland 1 time a year, and they will be coming here once a year to train with me. It is an honor to extend my wing chun line into Europe, and have these good people representing us in Switzerland. I know that they have accepted me with open arms, and I want all of my students and brethren to accept them. This union has made the world a little smaller, and definitely better. Here's to the new branch of Leung Sheung line of Wing Chun thru Karl Godwin and Bill Graves, now in Switzerland.

SECOND REVOLUTION SEMINAR IN CALIFORNIA

2009-07-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

Just a little up-date on the things going on with Wing Chun in Jacksonville.

I will be flying out to San Clemente, California for the second installment of the "revolution seminar" series. The San Clemente group will be training in "luk sao", analytical sparring. They will be going over the "5-energies at engagement", and studying typical fighting methods practiced by the Florida line. Also, they will be studying the finer aspects of "Chi Sao", as taught by me. These aspects of chi sao are refined, concentrated efforts of the Florida line by Karl Godwin, and taught by Bill Graves. There is so much to look forward to and to work on, hope we have the same if not larger turn out compared to the last seminar, which had an outstanding turn out.

Sifu, Bill Graves

Florida Wing Chun In Switzerland

2009-06-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Just dropping of few words about my trip to Switzerland. I`m over here teaching our friends, Florida wing chun. I`ll be over here for 2 more weeks, giving 2 seminars, and guest instructor in there regular classes. This already has been the trip of a lifetime, and I`m nowhere near done.

I`m also scheduling another trip to San Clemente projected to be sometime in August, Adams` group is asking for another workshop at that time.

Sifu, Bill Graves

Jacksonville Martial Arts - Jax's martial arts source

Remembering Where You Came From

2009-03-20T15:17:00.000-07:00

Since its inception, Atlantic Warriors Wing Chun Gung Fu has been a unique organization. This is due solely to its founder’s philosophy of Quality vs. Quantity. Sifu Jonathan Petree is a humble man that gives generously out of a full heart and great depth of knowledge, that he believes was truly a gift. This gift of Wing Chun was given to him by his Wing Chun lineage, which includes phenomenal teachers, such as, sifu Bill Graves, sifu Karl Godwin, sifu Ben Der, and sifu Kenneth Chung. All have imparted valuable and priceless teachings, which make up the body of knowledge and understanding from which sifu Petree drinks.

To quote sifu Petree, "I look at them as a wellspring of crystal clear water, from which they have invited me to drink and quench my thirst for excellence in the art. A spring is never stagnant, it is always flowing and providing nourishment for those willing to reach down and draw from its goodness".

With this perspective, sifu Petree will always be the first to give credit where credit is due. In that way, he will always be respecting his teachers by passing down the art of Wing Chun in its entirety and completeness. As a result, he will continually provide the answer to a student’s question of "why" to the lesson of "what"?

To preserve the integrity of the line, Atlantic Warriors Wing Chun Gung Fu, had remained purposefully out of the spotlight, preferring an "underground" approach that encompassed hard core training in as many varied environments as possible. This, all in an attempt to produce the highest-of-quality wing chun students who are not only proficient in the art, but also champions over their own mind, will, and emotions. Most all Atlantic Warriors are currently private lesson students, and when asked, they all want to stay that way. Time and again, these students feel that the training has had a profoundly positive impact on their life.

As a result, Atlantic Warriors will primarily continue to be a private-training organization, where only those who pass the interview process will be accepted into the one-on-one regimen. However, due to the high demand for his time sifu Jonathan Petree has been "flushed out of hiding" so to speak. Consequently, he has literally been given the use of facilities just so they can get him to teach public classes. After much consideration, sifu Petree has agreed to form a small public class, however he limited the number of students that will be in the class to only 10.
This inaugural public class started in Jacksonville, Florida in February 2009.
It is known as, Atlantic Warriors Wing Chun Gung Fu – Town and Country Studio, it is located at:

5454 Arlington Expressway
Jacksonville, FL 32211
The current home of The Bridge Church of Jacksonville

There are only a few openings remaining. To sign up for this class, please contact sifu Jonathan Petree by visiting www.atlanticwarriors.org, or find us on Facebook, or call (904) 270-2237.

Jacksonville Martial Arts - Jax's martial arts source

Integrity of the Line

2009-02-04T15:22:00.001-08:00

When a martial artist learns their art, they are vigilant in their understandings and in their practices. This is so because they are tested on a regular basis. This form of testing is how they move up in rank. Once achieving a certain level, they become certified to teach themselves. As time goes on in the art in which they've studied becomes their own and some disciplines can become slightly altered and or lost. Some of the understandings can change ever so slightly, as to lose the primary understanding that was so purposefully given to them by there instructor.

In Jacksonville, their is a line of wing chun that understands this breakdown, and for all intents and purposes, tries to prevent this from occurring. In this line, communication is open between all generations, and the purity of the style isn't lost. There are no single entities who have all the knowledge, and "keep certain understandings or techniques" for themselves, as to prevent anyone from catching up to them, or becoming better than they are. I believe that there is a "bridge" of time which can very rarely ever be crossed. This bridge is what separates the teacher from the student, not withholding information from the student.

There are no masters that train under me, but I do have 6 senior students. All of which have trained with me since the 1990's. These top 6 have continually trained with me since their start. The consistency of their training related to geography and ability to travel to me to train. These students listed by seniority; Scott Mullen in Dallas, Texas; Kevin Ried, in north Georgia; Jonathan Petree, Jesse Moon and Armando Sainz, these 3 being of the Florida group located at the Jacksonville beach areas, and in California, Adam Williss. They are all high level practitioners. All have "instructural status" under me, Sifu Bill Graves.

Armando Sainz, being the first to complete the full curriculum under me.He has gone on to be in the forefront of the Jacksonville wing chun movement by having one of the longest running public schools, being in the public eye with his outstanding web site, and his writings which can be found on the internet. Also, Armando has developed a specific " anti-grappling system ",unique to his abilities.

Jonathan Petree also has multiple public schools and programs that he is involved with, one being an outstanding after school program helping to develop our youth in Jacksonville to think respectfully and act like the young adults that we all admire. Jonathan also was my leading assistant when I had my public schools.

Jesse Moon is my most technical student, practicing with me on a continual basis, he has become proficient in the instruction of wing chun. Jesse understands wing chun to such a degree enabling him to teach with such a high level of exacting knowledge as to never fail in its' delivery to the student. Jesse also has gone on to be a recognized student under my sifu Karl Godwin.

Kevin Reid has come into his own understanding as being a high level practitioner of late. When Kevin began, he was the one student who loved to go to other schools and challenge other styles with his abilities. Kevin has proceeded down the path to the internal side of wing chun and has come to some great understandings. Both Kevin and Jesse also have students, but more in the traditional means of private and semi-private instruction in there garage or home.

Dr. Scott Mullen has a public school in Dallas,Texas. This is where he calls home. While going to college in Florida, Scott trained with me vigorously for 4 years finishing the first stages of my curriculum that I offered. Scott was also one of my leading assistants during his training with me while in school here in Florida. When he moved to Texas to finish his education, he worked on the knowledge I gave him until he was able to continue his training with me, as he has done for the last several years.

Although Adam Williss has trained with me the least, he has a great desire to learn the art as taught by me. Adam has a good understanding of the way the body works and this shows in his ongoing efforts in California ,where he calls home. Adam comes to Florida to train with me on a consistent basis. During his trips to Florida, he also will travel to my instructors facility in Sanford to train. He has also helped me out considerably with my presence on the web.

I practice the art of wing chun as given to me by the greatest master of the art in Florida, my Sifu Karl Godwin, located in Sanford, Florida. He is the wellspring of knowledge that we call Florida Wing Chun. Let it be known, there are no others with the knowledge or the abilities of Karl, for this I'm thankful and feel very blessed to have had the humbling experience of training under him for the last 27 years.

Jacksonville Martial Arts - Jax's martial arts source

What is Wing Chun?

2009-01-23T16:48:00.000-08:00

Wing Chun is a traditional Chinese martial arts system, based largely on principles similar to those of the Taoist internal martial arts such as Tai Chi. We feel that the laws of physics best determine the best ways to move and defend one's self. Because of this, true Wing Chun is considered to be a "concept based" martial arts system. By this we mean concepts and principles govern how we move, fight and train. Nothing in Wing Chun is done without applying these "concepts" and they are the reasoning behind all of our martial arts technique, methods, and strategies. Most other martial arts schools rely on muscular strength, speed, and purely physical technique. Instead, the "concepts" we utilize involve sensitivity, structure, footwork, and martial arts technique to deal with aggressors.

Wing Chun is a very rich and well thought-out boxing science and martial arts system that requires thought to practice and understand. The Art is highly aggressive and efficient, yet we train to acquire effortless martial arts skills. The martial arts system is based on principles of physics, body mechanics, and physiology and it possesses the ability to justify itself intellectually. There is no question about self-defense the martial arts system cannot answer; it is dynamic and complete.

There are many interpretations of the term Kung Fu. Perhaps it's best translated as "Development." True Wing Chun students will seek to continually develop and evolve their understanding of Wing Chun principles and concepts, and will not settle for simply carrying on the art in a sacred, dead tradition. It is a thinking person's approach to Martial study. We teach that Wing Chun trains self-defense skills, not skills useful for competition or egotistic brawls. Intelligence, awareness, and hard work are essential aspects of Wing Chun training. As one of our peers once said, Wing Chun is the "science of self-preservation."

Jacksonville Martial Arts - Jax's martial arts source