Soke Sam Gervasi, one of Australia's leading exponents in martial arts and in fields of natural health, is the founder and head instructor of the ... See more Australian and International Ju-jitsu/Karate Dojos and the founder and principal of the International College of Martial Arts and Natural Therapies. Innovative and dynamic he has blended his knowledge of boxing, martial arts and his love of the healing arts to become one of the most well regarded and respected martial artists in Australia. Originating from a small provincial town in Sicily, Italy, Soke Gervasi migrated to Australia at the age of nine. His formative years were spent honing his skills in the art of boxing, coached by Harry 'Snowy' Doran, 1946 Victorian Boxing champion. A career decision and his affinity with boxing led him in search of something offering similar ingredients. After much consideration of other styles and clubs Soke Gervasi came under the tutelage of Shihan Wayne Brabham, who was instructing in the art of Ju-Jitsu. Inspired by the energetic classes Shihan Gervasi signed up (in 1973) with the humble goal to achieve a yellow belt. However with will and determination he achieved the coveted black belt in 1978. By the time Shihan Brabham had retired from martial arts he had graded Soke Gervasi to 4th Dan (July 1989). This was the catalyst that led Soke Gervasi to travel extensively to many countries to broaden his training and teaching, along the way gaining valuable information from many Masters who were experts in the fields of anatomy and traditional Eastern Medicine. Soke Gervasi has been able to incorporate this knowledge along with his own studies in Shiatsu, pressure points, sports injury massage and herbal medicine to offer a well rounded schooling in martial arts and natural healing. Whilst undertaking his world-wide search of knowledge Soke Gervasi was privileged to be taken under the guidance of two of the most renowned Ju-Jitsu masters in the world, Professor Wally Jay (10th Degree Small Circle Ju-Jitsu) and Professor Don Jacob (9th Degree Purple Dragon Ju-Jitsu). In March 1996, Soke Gervasi was graded to 6th Dan by both professors. In the same year he was awarded the prestigious accolade of Ju-Jitsu Instructor of the year at the Blitz Hall of Fame Martial Arts awards. In 1996 Soke Gervasi established a volunteer program called Operation M.A.C.H. (Martial Arts Community Help), with the main focus being to help those less fortunate and in genuine need of assistance. Soke Gervasi along with his students provide volunteer help such as gardening, lawn mowing, cleaning, painting and repairing odd jobs around the home. He is also a published author of the book "The Complete Guide to Safety and Awareness" and has published several Martial Arts magazines. His status in the Martial Arts community has also led him to be featured on many magazine covers such as Blitz and Impact to name a few. A mentor to all his students, his classes are fun, informative and above all educational. His technique and skill in Ju-Jitsu and Karate is not only sharp and lethal but breathtaking to watch, his whole persona radiates a serene warmth and friendliness that is felt by all who cross his path. Soke Gervasi is a true inspiration to students and peers alike.