As one door closes another one opens...
It goes without saying that the last class of the American Martial Arts Institute’s Albany location was a bittersweet experience for the students, instructors and myself. There was much sadness realizing that it was the end of a home where countless wonderful memories were experienced. Memories of students and instructors, their beginnings, their struggles, their growth and their successes will always dwell in a special place in my heart. On the other hand I have learned that wherever the school would be located that, due to the dedicated and enthusiastic group instructors, the school and students will flourish.
This is a lesson that I learned from Grandmaster Crandall 10 years ago when he too had to close the Catskill location. It was a difficult decision for him to leave behind a group of students that would never be able to make the commute from Catskill to Albany. But he saw it necessary in order to plant the new seed in Albany, which did indeed grow into an amazing location that made it possible to be a positive impact on the lives of hundreds and possibly thousands of people.
I would like to take this time to thank all the students and instructors for making the last class such a memorable event. All the kind words, the tributes, the warmth and the tears will be lifelong reminders of the extraordinary people that have touched my life as I have touched theirs. The events of that evening signified that it could never be said that, “Master Hillicoss did not look out for the best interest of the students or the school”. You all made it apparent that you know me for who I am and what I have accomplished.
And finally I would like to thank all the instructors that have done so much for the Albany location. They have given their time, their energy and their support in the highest degree. Their dedication, commitment and loyalty to the martial arts and the Albany location goes beyond what anyone could ever ask for. It has been a pleasure and an honor to have worked and trained with a group of individuals of this caliber.
Best of Life Always,
Master Allen Hillicoss
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Master Hillicoss,
ReplyDeleteI would like to send a personal thanks you for bringing fun into martial arts while still encouraging discipline and structure. You have a gift as a teacher that has had a sincere impact on my son - Matthew De Joy. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to have had Matthew train under your guidance. Best of luck in all that you do.
Sincerely,
Bill De Joy
Master Hilicoss:
ReplyDeleteWe learned much and grew a lot in your classes. Your contagious enthusiasm really sparked something in us both and we sincerely thank you.
We hope that everything works out for you.
Al and Abby Salinero
I had to walk my dad through looking at the album and posting a comment step by step =]
ReplyDeleteMaster Hillicoss...
ReplyDeleteyou will be missed very much. and you were a great teacher. thanks for everything.
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