Welcome Friends

Let this be a place to share ideas and create an environment for learning. There are neither rules nor a babysitter so post what is on your mind but be fair.

- Leave ego behind.

- Keep an open mind.

- Share willingly.

- Be honest with yourself.





About Stephen Tripney

Stephen has had an active role in the martial arts for over 14 years, beginning his formal training in Korean systems, namely ITF Tae Kwon Do and Hapkido. Quickly entering the sport karate circuits he competed successfully, staying within the top 3 spots in his circuit for 5 straight years. Although this experience helped with foundational skills, he knew there was more to martial arts training than what was available in these circles. It was the encouragement of his first instructor, Jaime Vera, that pushed Stephen to cross train as much as possible and always keep an open mind.

A major turning point occurred when, in 1995, Stephen participated in a Kali/JKD concepts seminar and the rug was suddenly pulled from under his feet. His focus shifted towards gaining as much varied training experience as possible and to seek out the best instruction currently available. He maintained this path and has had the opportunity to train with some of the world's premier instructors. Most recently Stephen has been training under the guidance of Datu Kelly Worden and his system "Natural Spirit International".

Stephen quickly realized after his first training day with Datu Worden that this is what he had been searching for. It was the paradigm shift that has taken him to another level of understanding and helped solidify his current philosophy, which is:

1. Constant progression and change

2. Ultimate freedom and personal expression

"I take people outside their regular mode of thought and provide a transition from technique and skill-based training to the development of essential attributes," says Stephen. "This approach opens up so many more variables and allows an individual to find what really works for them."

Stephen is a certified NSI instructor under Datu Kelly Worden and is a member of AFLCA.