Dawn Culgin: Martial Arts for The Women of Sudbury

Dawn Culgin is a warrior, let’s start with that. She has an extensive background in the martial arts world with years of experience in Karate and Kickboxing. She has competed on the international stage and is now bringing this experience to her very own school, The Onna Bugeisha (OB) Women’s Only program. Dawn’s school has a motivating and enthusiastic atmosphere. I had the chance to speak with her about her experience and hear all about the latest chapter in her journey.

The first thing we’d like to know is, what started your martial arts journey? Where did it all begin?

I started my training in traditional Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate with Sensai Perry Campbell when I was about 17, and I trained exclusively in karate until I was around 30. I attained the level of Nii Dan/2nd degree black belt. I loved it. It was in my blood. When I was 35, I decided that I wanted to train martial arts again. It was not the right time to return to karate, so I took up kickboxing at a local club here in Sudbury. That’s where the addiction began…. from then on, I never looked back. Kickboxing was going to be a big part of my life.

What inspired you to open your own school?

I have hopped around a bit; I’ve been a member at many schools. I ran volunteer programs at two other schools before I went out on my own. It was always fun for me and my way of giving back to my coaches. I feel the bond between an athlete and coach is very special. In December 2014, I was offered an opportunity to run my own program as a part of Troop MMA. This was an opportunity for me to develop my own women’s kickboxing business. It was unchartered territory for me and I was actually really worried that I would have no students. Thankfully, I was wrong. I filled almost all of my spots in less than three hours.

What styles do you teach your students?

One year later, the universe dumped the perfect space onto my lap. I signed a lease and opened my own school (Onna BUGEISHA women’s fitness and martial arts). Not only do I teach women’s kickboxing, I returned to karate training and now teach women traditional Okinawan karate as well. It’s all very exciting for me.

Can you tell us about some of your accomplishments and milestones in your martial arts journey?

I have accomplished a couple provincial and national titles in varying weight categories. But, my biggest athletic accomplishment thus far was placing at worlds.

To what do you attribute your success?

I can honestly say that I am very fortunate that the universe has guided me to amazing people who have mentored and helped me along the way. Without the continuing support of these people….. I would not be where I am today. In my classes, I try to pay this forward. I try to show my students their own potential. I run all of my classes in a team environment and everyone has a place no matter what level they are at. This has been the glue of our success so far. I could never have imagine how incredible and amazing my team would be. I am honoured to say that these ladies are on my team. Plus…. They kick ass!

So, what’s next?

As for my future. I’m not sure where I am going yet. I am very busy helping my own athletes chase their dreams at the moment. I just hope I can provide the level of guidance and support that I was given. I have big shoes to fill!

The Onna Bugeisha (OB) Women’s Only program is located at 131 Pine Street.

Anthony Crozzoli

Anthony is a Laurentian and Cambrian Alumni who is a lifelong fan of athletics, spicy foods, and romcoms. Loves his 2 for 1 wings at the Doghouse. He’s here to keep you in the know about our local varsity sports scene!

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