Master Rick Starsick wrote:
I have a unique perspective on Sifu Damian Raad and know him quite well, since I have known him since he was born, and can shed some light into his true character....and THAT is very important when choosing a martial arts instructor and school.
Sifu Raad and I grew up in a very small WV town, where it is a true microcosm of the Universe, yet leaves one thirsting for adventure. We are both Drummers, Pilots(although he is far more skilled in aviation than I) and....Martial Artists. You would never suspect that a highly trained Master of Martial Arts would live in a small WV community - but he and I were both Blessed to train under Master Terry McLain of the Pai Lum Southern Chinese Kung Fu system. This initial training gave Sifu Damaian Raad a fabulous foundation for his martial arts Quest. The training, as in all of the BEST studios across the World....was sweaty, intense, personal and based in Chinese traditions and methodology. Life separated us, yet Sifu Raad continued his Journey in the Arts, and has become who he is today: a skilled Martial Artist, Practitioner and Instructor graced with a great communications skill set tempered with Humility....and is is exactly THAT one must look for when seeking out an Instructor.
Sifu Damian Raad has some of the strongest Chi(internal Power) I have witnessed for his age, and I have 31+ years of experience in Pai Lum Kung Fu, Hung Gar, Chi Lin, Wudan Sword and MMA. It is that very aspect of his style that one rarely gets to see in the Wing Chun System, and he has It. He is skilled in both long and short range fighting, and will impart to the dedicated student proper self-defense for any situation. You cannot go wrong with this fine Man and the System he teaches.
Sifu Damian Raad and I still meet and exchange techniques and concepts, as well as train from time to time, and I can personally vouch for his abilities - they are indeed skillful. I am currently learning the Shaolin Wing Chun system as an adjunct to my Pai Lum Kung Fu training, and it complements the Animal Styles (both broken wing Eagle and Crane) VERY well, and I am very passionate about the System and its Instructors, and Sifu Damian Raad will top the list.
In summary, Martial Arts is about melding Mind, Body and Spirit into one Powerful yet Humble Entity - to make you a BETTER person.....and that is what it is all about, isn't it? You cannot go wrong in choosing Sifu Damian Raad and the System he represents.
Master Rick Starsick - Pai Lum Kung Fu - 說起龍 - 六級黑帶教練
Josh Sellers wrote:
The teacher/sifu is so understanding and he knows just what you need to be your very best. In life, in the sport, and in self-defense you will not find a better school. Come make kung-fu yours!
Cameron wrote:
This place really will change you for the better. Regardless of your background the people there will welcome you with positive personalities. It is like a family and through hard work and dedication its amazing what potential you can discover about yourself.
Jonathan wrote:
The studio welcomes you in and immediately gives you the opportunity to start your journey. If you dedicate yourself you'll find yourself growing as a person within a supporting environment. We all learn and grow together. It's been a life changer for me personally. You won't just learn kung fu. You'll learn life skills, mental toughness and how to succeed. Come with the right mindset. Take that first step.
Josh Edwards wrote:
Everything you could ask for in a martial arts school is right here, and so much more. The teacher is knowledgeable, and truly cares about his students. The students are friendly, helpful, and care about each other. There is no better place to develop your inner and outer self, and have fun while you are doing it!
Adam Fox wrote:
From the first time I walked in I was treated like family... Very positive and extremely knowledgeable. No matter if you are 9 or 90 all are welcome, and It has been a life changing experience for me. Highly recommend!
Abtin Bashirazami wrote:
I started here with little martial arts experience. I was expecting a fun workout and maybe some skills. What I got in return is a new way of life. I received training for a sacred martial designed to teach reality. I also got a big and loving family. If you care about being in a environment with people who want to improve themselves, then join us! The more the merrier!
Amy Hirth wrote:
Great place to start a new life! This has been the best decision I have ever made for me and my son. It has already improved the quality of life for us. We are having so much fun with our new Kung Fu family and are excited about our next achievements through Sifu Damian Raad's teaching. He can and will help you to obtain your goals, whatever they may be!
Deborah Zeller wrote:
I went with my husband to Sifu Raad's Wing Chun class to see if it was something I might be interested in learning with him & have since joined the class myself. Sifu Raad has an easy way of teaching that is both informative & demonstrative & I look forward to continuing this journey with the class, & him.
Carmine Etter wrote:
I started my journey over two years ago and I was one of the best decisions I've made. Sifu Damian Raad has created a school that encourages fitness, mental growth, and positive friendships. If you are looking for a great place to learn true Shaolin Wing Chun look no further.
Jonathan Rysdon wrote:
If You are in the area and are a serious enthusiast/ practitioner of the martial arts please come and check out the Kung Fu Studio! It will be worth your time.
Curtis McCollough wrote:
This place is great. You can tell as soon as you start working with the Sifu, as well as everyone else here that they are committed to helping you become not just a better martial artist, but also a better person. I haven’t been here very long, but I can tell that this will be a great kung fu family.
Jarren Compton wrote:
Positive environment and great instructor. This system has helped me grow mentally as well as physically. If you are looking to positively change your life this is the place to be.
Glitch Monk Wrote:
Sifu Damian has devoted his life to martial arts, and that is reflected in his passion for teaching, as well as his goal to foster growth in his students—mental, physical and emotional. The student instructors also do an incredible job, and they are willing to provide additional lessons outside of class as scheduling allows. They are truly a dedicated group.
As an older guy, I have been challenged and I have been tested, but in a good way. Starting with the very basics, the classes progress until you reach the point at which you are ready to spar. It could take months, it could take years. But you will not be put into situations you are not equipped to handle. Your safety is paramount.
My son is also in a kids program here. Through these classes he is gaining not only the physical benefits of kung fu, but he is also developing his ability to focus, show respect and exhibit self-discipline.
Bottom line: Highly recommended for both adults at any level, as well as kids.
Mike Dumas Wrote:
Sifu Damian is an excellent teacher, and really cares about the development of his students. The art itself, Shaolin Wing Chun, is a very powerful way to develop your body mind and spirit. Sifu Damian lives it, and you can really tell in the way he teaches.
The school itself is a beautiful place, and the perfect environment to learn this Ancient art.
I highly recommend this to ANYONE interested in martial arts!
Paul Mason Wrote:
Sifu Damian Raad is one of the most patient instructors I have ever met. He has close to 30 years experience in martial arts and has a teaching style that incites enthusiasm from newcomers to black belts and all experience levels in between. Do not miss an opportunity if you have a chance to learn from this man!
Mike Moistner Wrote:
If your looking for top quality mind & body martial arts training this is the school to help reach your goals with. Sifu Raad provides very positive, yet challenging classes that push you to be your best in every aspect of life. You'll also make some great friends in the most positive environment. The best in the area.
Akeem Johnson Wrote:
I want to say how excited i am to be learning wing chun. I want to thank sifu Damian for helping me embark, on my very own martial arts journey. I highly recommend this school to anyone who wants to learn. Prepare to put in hard work and dedication see you there!!