Jeff Graham is a kickboxing and MMA instructor at K2 Martial Arts. He was interested in and tried many sports throughout his childhood, such as soccer, baseball and football but Graham consistently played hockey in Montreal growing up.
Graham has a passion for kickboxing and mixed martial arts so when the opportunity came up he jumped at the chance to be an instructor. He always wanted the chance to pass on the knowledge he received from his great coach, Jean-Yves Thériault.
Graham has a passion for kickboxing and mixed martial arts so when the opportunity came up he jumped at the chance to be an instructor. He always wanted the chance to pass on the knowledge he received from his great coach, Jean-Yves Thériault.
Graham’s favourite thing about coaching is “watching the progression of the students; from struggling beginner, barely making it through their first class, to advanced striker; hitting the pads with precision, speed and power.” He says, “It’s not an easy transition to make, and it’s so rewarding to see them work hard to achieve their goals.”
The most rewarding part about coaching for Graham is helping people find martial arts. “I was teaching a mixed martial arts class at uOttawa, and a couple of students found enough enjoyment in the class that they decided to try to focus their training in martial arts. I always love seeing them at the dojo.” Graham explained.
Graham says that as someone who is relatively new to coaching he is constantly learning. “At the beginning, my biggest challenge was being hesitant to push my students close to their limits. I feel that was certainly due to my inexperience teaching. As I became more comfortable and confident as a coach, and got to know the students, I was able to ascertain each individual’s maximum and was better equipped to motivate them towards it.”
Do you know of or are you a coach in the Ottawa area? HESN wants to hear from you, contact us at mia@houseedgemedia.com.