USKA Chief Instructor was humbled and extremely surprised to be awarded his Masters 7th Dan Black Belt on Saturday by ICO World President Master Andrew Hennessy after conducting the latest ICO Team England Squad Training session at the USKA Fight Factory,
January next year marks his 40th year in the sport and it was an absolute honour for Neil to be presented this grade from the same man who awarded him his first belt all those years ago in 1986 just months after starting Martial Arts.
Neil had no idea that he was being considered for this promotion as he hadn't applied, requested or even mentioned it even though he was eligible for the grade since September last year with it being seven years since he was awarded his 6th Dan..
He said hat the fact he was considered worthy of this Grade from the ICO technical committee behind the scenes made the award all the more special.
Neil also went on to say that he was very grateful for the life and the experiences that Martial Arts had afforded him over the years and to everyone who had helped me and guided him along the way before giving a heartfelt thank you to Andrew Hennessy for his teachings and guidance over the last 40 years.
Well done Neil on your amazing achievement within the Martial Arts, all of us here at USKA are very proud of you!
