Hanshi Dave McConnell

This is a story of an individual that has helped hundreds of people and never really appreciated how much he has changed their lives. Born in Alabama as a black child and having to live through segregation through the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s etc. He had no easy life. But you would never know it because of how he treated everyone he met. Always respectful, always kind like a superhuman force. He is now on his last days and his family could use some help with his services.

Instead of being broken hearted I am asking we rejoice and be thankful we got to share the time we did with him. The benefit is never really appreciated until you look back, way back. Day 1, week 1, month 1, white belt, yellow belt, green belt, etc... Oh the stress and the nerves of the tests. Then he would hand you your belt as if it was a given, tell you good job and done. The test was just a formality!

His family came first, the dojo second. If you were in the dojo then you were family. I have personally seen hundreds of students come and go. Most with their heads held high and their shoulders back because Hanshi had shown them they had what it takes. They just needed someone to show them.

Hanshi helped so many people over the years. It is incredible. If you are reading this then he probably touched you or someone you know. Lucky you. If you are able, please consider offering some financial help for his family at this time for his services. Hanshi would never ask for help because he is too proud. As his student for 37 years, I will because I have seen the changes he made in so many.

Thank you, Dave Harrington