Our Vision
At The Academy of Combative Martial Arts, we strive to empower individuals of all ages and skill levels to achieve their full potential through the practice of martial arts, while fostering a supportive and inclusive community that values respect, discipline, and personal growth.
Our Story
Passionate about sharing his martial arts knowledge with the community, Sensei Carl Ogoy founded The Academy of Combative Martial Arts with a small group of students, and the support of great friends, in the Autumn of 2020. Having migrated from the Philippines at such a young age, a shy little boy with limited English speaking skills, Carl struggled to adapt to schooling and was exposed to bullying. This experience inspired him to pursue martial arts training, which not only helped him develop physical skills but also provided a sense of confidence and self-awareness. After years of training, Carl was asked to become an assistant instructor at The WA Institute of Martial Arts by his teacher, Sensei Terrence Cook. Under Sensei Terrence's supervision and guidance, Carl found a new passion for teaching, and sharing the gift of martial arts to those who needed it.
With a background in Zen Do Kai, Sensei Carl found the importance of an open, freestyle system. Alongside the understanding and respect toward the importance of traditional Japanese and Okinawan principles, we created a diverse rotating curriculum that incorporates Goju Karate Kata and technique, with elements borrowed from other styles such as Jiu-Jitsu, Krav Maga, Kali and Muay Thai. Our curriculum is based on the idea that not one martial art style is the best, but the idea that the combination of the best technique from a variety of styles is most effective.
Contrary to popular belief, martial arts is not about violence and aggression. One of the key principles of martial arts is patience, and the ability to diffuse situations before they escalate. Through consistent training and practice, we develop the skills and techniques to avoid physical altercations and resolve conflicts peacefully. However, we prepare ourselves to handle physical situations should they arise. By developing strength, speed, and agility, we train to be able to defend ourselves and others in a skilled and controlled manner. Martial arts is about developing a well-rounded set of skills that can be applied both on and off the mat, including discipline, respect, and self-awareness.
“The martial arts are ultimately self-knowledge. A punch or a kick is not to knock the hell out of the guy in front, but to knock the hell out of your ego, your fear, or your hang-ups.”
Bruce Lee
Through Sensei Carl's journey of martial arts training and research, it was decided to build our foundation under the following three Japanese Zen concepts, all of which are found in our school logo, and worn by Freestyle Karate students on their Gi (training uniforms), on the side above our hearts.
初
心
SHOSHIN
"Beginner's Mind"
Shoshin is the concept that translates to "beginner's mind." It refers to the attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when learning, even at an advanced level, just as a beginner would. Shoshin is about approaching every situation, task, or problem with a fresh perspective, free from preconceived notions or biases. This is the concept in which Bruce Lee refers to in his teachings when he says, "empty your cup."
無
心
MUSHIN
"Empty Mind"
Mushin is the concept that means "no mind" or "empty mind." It is a mental state where one is fully present in the moment, free from distractions and preconceptions. In this state, the mind is clear and focused, and one can act without hesitation or self-consciousness.
残
心
ZANSHIN
"Constant Awareness"
Zanshin is the concept which refers to a state of relaxed alertness and heightened awareness. The term literally means "remaining mind" or "lingering spirit" and refers to the state of mind where one remains fully present and focused even after an action has been completed. In other words, zanshin is the state of mind where one is fully aware of their surroundings and ready to respond to any unexpected situation that may arise.
Our Principles
At The Academy of Combative Martial Arts, we are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive learning environment, where students can challenge themselves and achieve their goals. Since our establishment, we believe that our academy has become a valuable resource for individuals who are looking to improve their physical fitness, learn self-defence techniques, and develop life skills that will serve them well both on and off the mat.