David da Silva
Shichidan – 7th Degree Black Belt
David da Silva’s family emigrated from Brazil, and David was raised the youngest of 8 children, here in St. Louis. His Portuguese accent and cultural differences set him slightly apart from other kids, and he turned to martial to help gain confidence. He began at age 8 in Judo, and then began Kenpo at 10. He earned his Black Belt at Tracy’s under master instructor Sid Gee in 1992. David has taught Karate for 25+ years. He is an accomplished tournament fighter and was awarded the Checkered GI.
Besides teaching Karate, David is a Nurse at a local hospital. He also has a degree in Graphic Arts.
David is keenly aware of students’ individual needs. He enjoys teaching all ages, but takes a special interest in the young students who may be facing bullying at school. He shares a story of a father, who was at first reluctant and uncertain about his young son taking karate, who came to David on his son’s 18th birthday and said, “You changed the life of my son, and I can never repay you.”
Yet David will tell you that it is this experience and others like it that has changed his life. What you will learn quickly about David is his philosophical outlook on his life and his work.
“Karate has balanced me. I see the positive influence I can have on people. It has helped me through the rough parts of my life and taught me to adjust. I have a better understanding of people and I am a better Nurse because of it. Karate has brought me peace. Tracy’s is family.”