David Wilson, a Wellington martial arts instructor and studio owner, has been teaching Villari’s Shaolin Kempo Karate to men, women and children for nearly 20 years. His instructing has afforded him the ability to extol the benefits of the martial arts to people from all walks of life, ages, genders, skill sets and fitness levels, as well as to people from vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, abused and disabled. His ability to communicate in a relaxed and succinct manner increases the students’ retention of the material as he demonstrates techniques in a fluid, yet powerful manner. It is this blend of soft and hard that has allowed him to travel around the country and the world instructing in armed and unarmed self-defense.
Wilson’s knowledge and skill does not go unrecognized by his peers in the martial arts community. In recognition of his dedication to his students, his proficiency and contribution to the martial arts, the 7th degree black belt was recently inducted into the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame in Framingham, Massachusetts, where some of the world’s greatest martial artists have been inducted.
On Dec. 15, Wilson was honored to be bestowed the award in the presence of three of his lifelong mentors, instructors and friends — Villari’s founder Fred Villari, 10th degree black belt John Fritz and 9th degree black belt Mark Pearson. Wilson was glad to be inducted at the same time as his friend Pearson, who was instrumental in Wilson choosing to become a studio owner. Wilson’s only regret was his good friend and first instructor, John Gilbert, who passed away suddenly, was unable to share the evening with all of them. However, Wilson knows he would be proud of the accomplishment.
Wilson’s philosophy to life and martial arts is part of the school’s motto: “work hard and you shall be rewarded.” The motto is emblazoned in kanji on the Villari’s emblem. Wilson said that the philosophy can be applied to work, school, relationships and life in general.
For more info., contact Wilson at (561) 792-1100 or senseidave2005@yahoo.com, or stop into Villari’s Studios of Self Defense, located at 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 7, in the original Wellington Mall.
