The CBC interviewed students and teachers at Guardian Martial Arts for an inside look at the dojo that is changing Toronto for the better.
”Up the stairs of an unassuming building in Toronto's west end, kids run through conditioning drills and learn new skills in martial arts. The space on Weston Road near Rogers Road, referred to in the community as "The Dojo," has opened its doors to hundreds of kids from different backgrounds and with various abilities over the last six years. "The vast majority of kids who come to us have been bullied," said Michael Francolla, who helps run the program said.
“Some of the kids have been bullied. And now they’re strong, and they’re becoming great martial artists.” - Hanshi Alfie Della Terza
Read the full article at CBC.ca
In October of 2017, The Dojo was honoured to be featured in MP Ahmed Hussen's Nominate Your Neighbour campaign for "bettering the lives of many vulnerable youth in our community
through teaching self-defence.
He has created a welcoming, accessible environment where martial arts is taught alongside strong moral values of compassion and community stewardship… Shihan’s Dojo is a place where youth from all backgrounds can come together to bond over the empowering values of self-defense, and we thank him for creating this space.”
"I was in my doorway, broad daylight in a usually busy street, ready to open my door when I sensed a large figure hovering behind me. It is a small space and I had no exit. I took a breath, I turned looked him straight in the eyes, grabbed him by his arms, and I kneed him right square! He sure did not expect it and I never thought I could do it, but training took over, it all came back and I did it! Thank you!" - Pat
