Kids Classes

Kids Testimonial from a coach

I had the pleasure of watching my young relatives, a 10 yo and a 5 yo boys, at their weekly Capoeira Class in Townsville. I wanted to write a testimonial of the excellence that I witnessed there. I believe I have the qualifications and experience to make an honest and unbiased observation and reflection.

I am a teacher, 2o years in Physical Education teaching at primary level, writing and reviewing curriculum for the Education Department and lecturing in Physical Education at Monash University and RMIT in Victoria.
I am also a High-performance coach in Netball where I have presented courses, coached and mentored at local, state and national (assisted) levels including at the AIS.

My two children have been elite athletes themselves competing at state and Australian levels in a variety of sports including Diving, Netball, Volleyball and Gymnastics.

My son is now a pilot in the RAAF and training for the Commandoes and my daughter is a myotherapist and remedial masseur.

Some of the coaches that my children had, helped shape who they were, to define their values, morals and ethics· and challenged the fairness of the world and its people.

I witnessed this same quality of instruction and attention to moral purpose at CAPOEIRA earlier this year. The classes were active, challenging and engaging. The expert instructors were clear, compassionate and encouraging. The children were respectful, co-operative and kind.

I had previously never heard of CAPOEIRA but the sport appears to value physical development and respect of fellow man. I’m sure not all instructors of the same sport could deliver these values as well as the ones I witnessed in Townsville. It was not so much the sport that Impressed me, as I love and value ALL sports, but rather the manner in which this club delivered it. I was proud that my nephews had the opportunity to grow, develop and learn from these wonderful instructors. I cannot recommend them highly enough.

Kids Testimonial – Michelle Hahesy

…When both my children attended their first lesson of capoeira they were welcomed with open arms by the Instructors and the other group members. As a mother I spent the first lesson with tears of relief overcoming me as my children were welcomed in to the fold of this wonderful ‘family’.

I watched my children interact with the Instructors and the other students and only heard words of encouragement from all sources. The most amazing part to me was the positive way the Instructors handled every situation and student.

Liam only having one hand was actually at an advantage in some ways as he was taught some advanced moves that require the student to only use one hand or side of the body so it was always a positive in his eyes and never a hindrance which in turn boosted his confidence….

Amazing instructors who nurture and develop the kids

Capoeira!  “What is that?” was my question when an Occupational Therapist suggested this activity to help my kids with their co-ordination and self confidence.  We were greeted by a team of amazing instructors who have been able to nurture and develop the kids.

The instructors take on board how tricky some of the activities are for the kids and work with them at their own pace.  They nurture their self belief and confidence to achieve things which they would never had ever attempted prior.  With Jambo and Uakari’s persistence, they are now attempting things that once seemed impossible.

The Capoeira School has provided them with an opportunity to be a part of something very unique.   The boys have been given Capoeira names which they are pretty impressed with.  As a mother, I have seen their self belief and confidence thrive along with their physical capabilities.  Team spirit is another beautiful quality encouraged here together with physical and mental strength.

Now, when someone asks “what is Capoeira?” the answer is FUN!

I have watched my children develop

My children have been participating in Capoeira for the past almost 5 years and have enjoyed the athleticism and fun in each class.

As an Occupational Therapist, I feel that Capoeira and in particular Capoeira Brasil Townsville assists in the acquisition of many skills which in turn enhances physical, social and emotional and intellectual development.

Capoeira benefits many areas of physical, social and language development through the skills taught during the class. Physical development skills including crossing of the midline, coordination, strength as well as fitness. Social skills are taught in class from the moment the children enter the floor with introducing themselves to others, giving eye contact, turn taking as well as responding to requests. Language skills are developed through teaching of another language (Portuguese) through songs and the names of the Capoeira moves.

I have personally watched my children develop in many different areas thanks to Uakari and Jambo. They look forward to each class and are engaged throughout the session.

Kids Class Testimonial 1

If I was seven years old, Mr Matthew Eales aka Uakari, would be my hero!

As a mother of a seven year old – Thomas, Matthew IS my favourite teacher. I am constantly amazed by Uakari’s skills for physically demonstrating his chosen sport and by his energetic teaching. Motivating, inspiring and imparting sporting discipline to groups of children is not a simple task. Matthew shows a breezy style, kindness and humility that are a pleasure to watch. I know though, this pleasant, engaging style for many observers hides an amazing skills base.