Albany AMAI Last Class

THE LAST CLASS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2009

Friday, August 28, 2009 was the last class of AMAI’s full time location in Albany. The class was very positive, energized and upbeat as students trained for the last time in the location that had been their home for the last ten years.









In many ways it was a normal night of training, as students practiced punches, kicks, basic forms, katas, and self-defense... but at the same time everyone worked a little bit harder, with the bittersweet awareness that it was a special time.












The end of class was a truly emotional experience for everyone, as the students and instructors took a moment to thank Master Allen Hillicoss for all of his postive spirit and hard work.

Mrs. Waldron first presented a plaque in recognition of 30 years of contributing to the lives of countless martial arts students.



Next, retired schoolteacher, Gail Curry read a poem she had written especially for Master Hillicoss and this important evening.

Then Miss Möller presented Master Hillicoss with a very special white belt, significant for several reasons. White belts signify new beginnings, and tonight was definitely that for him. But even more important were all the signatures on the belt. A parent suggested that all the current students and instructors could sign a belt and in the weeks leading up to the last class this was done so that the belt could be given to Master Hillicoss as a surprise gift - a very special memory of the last days of the school.



Finally, Master Hillicoss was given a scrapbook containing photos from throughout his career in the martial arts and personal messages from students and instructors. The scrapbook was presented and organized by Dr. Howard.



And then... it was time. The class bowed out, ending the last class at the Albany AMAI full-time location. Students and instructors lingered for some time afterwards to share cake, memories, and well-wishes, and a few last pictures were taken before everyone went their separate ways and the lights went out on 10 years of teaching and training in Albany.