Sensei Tammy Brady – Godan (5th Degree Black Belt)
🥋 My Karate Journey: A Path of Strength, Spirit, and Ninta
I first stepped onto the dojo floor in 2002 under the guidance of Sensei Neil Dunnigan, igniting a lifelong pursuit of martial excellence. In 2016, Sensei Jerrad Sagan extended an invitation that deeply honored me—to join the instructional staff and help shape the next generation of karateka. Since then, I’ve been actively working toward my Junshihan certification, sharpening my skills and deepening my understanding of Uechi-ryu.
As an apprentice instructor, I stand on the shoulders of giants. Within our dojo, I have the privilege of learning from a collective of Senior Karateka whose combined experience spans over six decades. Their wisdom fuels my teaching, and their legacy inspires me to give my absolute best.
🔥 Teaching with Intensity and Heart
Karate is not just a practice—it’s a calling. I bring intensity, discipline, and passion to every class I lead. My teaching style is high-energy, with a strong emphasis on strength and endurance—two pillars that I believe are essential to building a resilient martial spirit. I expect effort, commitment, and heart from my students, because I know that through sweat and perseverance, true growth is forged.
🌸 Karate as Healing and Empowerment
Who am I? I’m someone who dreamed of karate since childhood but didn’t begin until my mid-thirties. That delay didn’t weaken my resolve—it strengthened it. Karate became my sanctuary, helping me confront and overcome deep personal traumas. It brought balance to my mind, body, and spirit. It taught me how to stand tall when life tried to bend me. And now, I share that strength with every student who walks through our doors.
💪 The Spirit of Nintai: Perseverance in Motion
My journey has never been linear. I’ve raised a family of six, worked full-time, and volunteered in my community. Finding time for myself—and for karate—was often a struggle. There were moments when I felt behind, but I never let go of the dream. I chose Nintai—the unwavering perseverance that defines the martial way. My path may have taken longer, but it’s mine, and I walk it with pride.
To anyone who feels like life is pulling them in every direction, I say this: Never give up on your passion. Your journey may be unconventional, but it is no less powerful. Karate is for everyone—at any age, at any stage.
✨ I often use two hashtags in my social media posts. They are more than just words—they are reminders of the strength, resilience, and purpose that guide me every day.
#neverletthemwin reminds me that I have beaten all those who have added injury to my soul.
#phoenixvstiger represents my internal battle that I continue to balance through training in Karate.
A note from the admin:
Sempai Tammy Brady is a wonderful instructor. Her classes are often the most physically strenuous. I have done more sit-ups in her classes than in any other. She will build your muscles. Furthermore, she can show anyone how to fight someone bigger than them. Her intensity while training is an inspiration to all her students.