Well Rounded? Yes Indeed.
He’s the Singing Sensei, the Swinging Samurai, the tri-talented Tossing Tensui.
When it comes to being well rounded, there are few who fit the bill quite as well as Holliston’s Jim Cormier. Cormier is the owner of Cormier’s Self Defense Academy located on Charles Street in the rear of the Hollis Plaza.
Cormier recently celebrated his 25th year in business, a fact he finds hard to believe. “I was given permission by my sensei, Master Larry Garron, to open my own school in 1987,” he says. “I ran the school in the afternoons and evenings, while working full time at my daytime profession in the marketing and public relations field. Fifteen years ago I decided to make teaching a full time profession and leased my space, which is presently undergoing a major renovation and beautification.
“My wife Claire and I just repainted and redecorated our waiting room,” says Cormier, indicating his wife’s ideas will make his dojo a more family friendly place. “My landlord’s plans for the exterior of the building will present a very appealing look for our school,” adds Cormier, who does not foresee any obstacles for the school during this construction period.
The Academy offers adult and kid programs in karate, jujitsu, and judo as well as a yoga program (run for 13 years by the ever-effervescent Nancy Galiardi) for adults.
“I see nothing but good things for the future of my dojo,” says Cormier. “I have no plans to retire, if ever. I love this way of life and what it means to me and those who are a part of my dojo family. We change lives of the young and not so young in positive ways every day. It doesn’t get much better than that.”
Cormier, who has been awarded high level black belts in a number of disciplines, was inducted into the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2000. He is also a former professional musician, who stills picks up the guitar and entertains large audiences, as he did this summer in Denver where he travelled as a star member of the Mudville Base Ball Club.
Well rounded? Yes, indeed.
From the time he was an infant, only his Dad and I know what it took for Jim to become the man that he is today. He has always been a high achiever and proved that with everything he has accomplished in his life. Yes, I have every right to be proud of my son. I love you NUMBER ONE!!
A very PROUD mother. | 2012-10-19 14:15:45
Congratulations on all of your success Shihan. I look forward to seeing the dojo when I am state side again.
Tyler Ramrath | 2012-10-19 12:21:28
Hi Shihan your right this is a very cool article and you are very talented
Jack Cote | 2012-10-17 20:27:35
You are a multi-talented man. Lots to be proud of! And we all are so proud of you and all of your accomplishments. All The Best To You!
Doug Breau | 2012-10-16 21:13:18
Great job Cuz!!!! Johnny G.
John Gagnon | 2012-10-16 18:32:46
I realized how puny I am as your younger brother. You really are my hero!
Tom Cormier | 2012-10-16 18:16:58
I am so very proud of my brother Jim and all that he has, is and will accomplish with his multi-faceted talents in the future. Congratulations Jim! Love, Joan
Joan Reilly | 2012-10-16 12:10:06