Master Leon Preston (Leon) - Your leadership, sense of civic duty and mentorship will always be something I treasure. Your success in Taekwondo and the NFL are markers in athletic success and in life itself. Your integrity, determination and drive are trademarks to be admired. I will always look up to you and follow in your example in practicing the Taekwondo philosophy of living right and doing right. Leon, you have been my mate, my mentor, my teacher, and above all, my Taekwondo Master; you have seen me through some very hard times as well as good :) and offered your support and wisdom, even though we are separated by land and sea, across continents at times ; ). Know that I will try my best to do you and TKD2XCELL proud in whatever I undertake. I truly hold you in high esteem and always have for the 20 plus years we have known each other. ~ Taekwondo (Fist Foot Way) ~

Master John Holloway (John) - Your induction into the World Taekwondo Hall of Fame is evidence of your dedication, passion and true commitment to Taekwondo, and to the world of Olympic sport. Your sportsmanship extends beyond the competition mat and reaches into the many aspects of life. Know that I hold you in high regard, as a Master, a teacher and leader; close to my heart as a mentor, coach and mate. You embraced me into your school during one of the hardest times of my life. You understood, you cared, and with very few words, you spoke heaps :) by telling me to go back to the basics and core lessons of Taekwondo, to perservere and fight on. Words cannot express my appreciation and gratitude for 'adopting' me into your Gentle East family. The name of your school is a true representation of who you are; a champion, tantamount to a true Taekwondo warrior - with an indomintable spirit, balanced with the kindness and wisdom of a sage. No matter where life takes me-you will always have a place in my heart. ~ Taekwondo (Fist Foot Way) ~

Michael Atherton (Mikey) - You have a natural knack for looking at the positive side of things, no matter how bleak, no matter how dire. Your swimming achievements amidst your personal struggles and demons, sets you apart from being 'just' an elite athlete. The times we spent at AIS are memories I will always hold dear to my heart. A true surfer and child of the sun and sea, it is your humor and laughter, authenticity and honesty that has got me through some tough times. Your youthful demeanour and boyish glow will almost always set you apart from all the blokes. Your kindness radiates from you that will never go unnoticed. You are my cobber and mate for life! You will always have a special place in my heart.

Mark "American Thorpedo" Liscinsky - In the short time that you have coached me, you have renewed my spirit of determination and motivation, but more importantly, instilled in me a positive attitude toward swimming and in all other athletic goals. The high expectations and standards that you have set for me, reflects your belief in my potential and capability. The words 'No' or 'Can't' are not options for you, which in my book says heaps about your tenacity and drive, and your view of what is important to be successful. Your achievements in a sport that is HIGHLY competitive, is a true mark of excellence and takes the perspective that with enough hope, flexibility and determination, is within our reach. With each training session, your positive encouragement has influenced my attitude toward swimming and other athletic pursuits. I will keep training with a vision of hope and belief, knowing that anything is possible until the words 'Yes' and 'Can' become a part of my everyday vocabulary! :) Thanks mate-coach.