Tiger Schulmann’s is proud to announce the first Instructor of the Month:

Sensei Chris Iavarone from Glendale TSMMA
August 2009

We received many nominations and tons of inspirational stories, and Sensei Iavarone received numerous submissions and testimonials as to why he deserves to be the Instructor of the Month for August.

Joanne from Glendale wrote in:
“My son is 5 years old. When the new school opened up in Glendale, I took him to see the studio. On the way there he insisted that he did not want to go. Once he got there, his eyes lit up. When he met Sensei, he quickly changed his mind about not wanting to go. He was a little shy at first, a little unsure of himself. I have noticed an incredible change in my son since starting the program. We owe it all to Sensei Iavarone, and the rest of the staff at the Glendale location. He makes the classes fun, and he encourages the kids to push harder when they feel they can’t do something.

My son now can do 10 push ups and 15 sit ups. I notice little muscles forming in his arms, and he is getting stronger every week. About one month ago, my son started getting upset before and during the classes. I didn’t know what was wrong. Sensei Iavarone was very patient with him, and made him feel better, and now he goes on the mat and stands strong and works harder than ever!!

I can’t thank Sensei enough for his patience and for caring enough not to give up on my son. My son has one stripe on his high white belt and is anxiously awaiting his next stripe. He keeps asking when he is going to get his black belt, just like Sensei. I tell him you have to work hard and be strong, just like Sensei did to get it. He says that he will, and that he wants to be a Sensei just like Sensei Iavarone when he gets bigger.

My son thinks he is a hero. All the kids in his class are crazy about him. I think he inspires all his students to be the best, but he doesn’t make them feel bad if they are having a hard time.

Sensei Iavarone is the best!!!”

It doesn’t end there. Some student’s wrote in long stories, but others just had a short sentences as to why Sensei Iavarone was so special to them.

Michael:
“Sensei Iavarone is inspirational. He has taught me things that I never knew about myself. He is not only a true master at his art, but a kind soul as well. Not only does he teach every class, but he motivates every student to reach their full potential. Sensei is what keeps me going when I feel down and he fuels me to have the “non quitting spirit.” His work speaks for itself and I am a testament to that. He is an exceptional Sensei and mentor.”

Antonio:

“I am nominating Sensei Iavarone because he has changed my life completely. I am a better person because of him. I am now able to enjoy my job, feel less stressed, and maintain healthy eating habits, and improve my body conditioning. I also have obtained a lot of energy and now give time to my family, and it’s all thanks to my Sensei.”

Pedro:
“He is the most excited, well mannered, and consistent person that I have ever met. He likes a very disciplined and high energy class and of his students love that. We have all grown to love him in the little time we have had together.”

Nicholas:
“Sensei Iavarone helps me reach a level of fitness and discipline that I could not do on my own.”

Lisa:
My instructors at the Glendale school have empowered me to reach the healthiest point in my life. With the guidance and training I have lost the first 20 pounds of my weight loss journey, and I continue to strive for more. Sensei Iavarone gives his students 110% on and off the mat. He inspires the children he teaches, and he challenges the adults to never quit.”

Sensei Iavarone was honored to find out he has touched so many people and that he was chosen as the first Instructor of the Month! When asked if he had any words of advice or wisdom, he replied, “Whatever the question, the answer is training!.”

These are just a few reasons why Sensei Iavarone is August’s Instructor of the Month!! Congratulations!!