Steve Baer

I began training in the martial arts rather informally, with other kids within the neighborhood.  We didn't just 'play karate' though, we were actually practicing true basic techniques (blocks, punches, kicks, and katas).  After a few years of this, I finally convinced my parents to let me take formal lessons (they were hesitant because I had started and quit a number of other activities).  I enrolled at what was then the American Karate Studio (now Hoover Karate Academy) in Northampton.  I literally spent my early to mid teen years at the dojo.  I trained and help teach 4 nights each week as well as Saturdays.  I guess you could say I had a natural talent for learning the moves and was able to convey this to others as well.  I was a faithful student of Sensei Hoover until 1991 when I began to search for a more traditionally based program.  I found myself disgruntled with the state of my training.  I went with some friends to a karate tournament in Reading to compete and clear my mind a bit.  As I made my way through the event, I noticed many students who were competing in kata and weapons and doing superbly.  I wanted to do karate like that!  Later when I walked into the lobby of the auditorium and saw a group of these students being helped by their teacher.  As I eavesdropped on their little session, I was impressed at the technical nature of the instructor's advice.  I was immediately drawn not only to their excellent performance, but also to the manner in which they were taught.  I decided that I needed to look further into this school and teacher.  I was convinced that there was someone out there who I could learn from who was more than just a drill instructor, someone who would actually teach me about the martial arts with a caring and compassionate attitude.  I found that person (actually people) in Bruce and Ann-Marie Heilman.  I had known of both of them for many years.  I had seen Mrs Heilman at tournaments over the years, but I had never seen Mr Heilman, but his reputation as an excellent and caring teacher preceded him.  I joined their organization in 1992 and have been a loyal student ever since.  Under their tutelage I have expanded my learning from what amounted to a decent fundamental understanding to a deep passion for true, authentic martial arts.  Arts rich in history and tradition.  Arts that provide a consistent, and stable curriculum from which we can all learn and grow.

I guess I am what you might call, "others oriented".  Ever since my early years of training, I have had a penchant for working with kids and adults, sharing what I have learned and seeing how the arts truly impact people's lives.  I am convinced that the martial arts are the vehicle which God has blessed me with to reach people and help them to grow, both physically, mentally and spiritually.  My hopes and prayers are that God will continue to bless our school and our students for many years to come with great training and friendship.