Scott McKenzie

Instructor

Training Since: 2011

Teaching Since: 2022

Technique of Choice: Palm Strike

Weapon of Choice: Long Staff

Scott began his Arakan journey at 9, initially as part of the junior program. A sports enthusiast, he focused on soccer and AFL until knee injuries sidelined him. Despite challenges, he consistently attended Arakan lessons, where instructors supported him through his injuries and helped him develop discipline, focus, and a resilient mindset, earning his Yellow Belt at 17.

Scott is passionate about teaching Arakan to help others gain the confidence and resilience he has. He values how Arakan's community welcomes everyone, regardless of challenges, and encourages personal growth and mutual support.

Honest, hardworking, and adaptable, Scott structures lessons for all ages, including students with special needs. He believes a warrior mindset is one of the best investments for personal growth. Outside of training, Scott enjoys the gym, AFL games, and spending time with family and friends.

Student Testimonials

I have been training with Scott for a few months now and he is an incredible trainer. He takes the time to understand how each person learns and tailors his teaching skills to suit. Scott is extremely patient and understanding, as a single mum there have been many times where I've had to bring my child to training who has special needs. When my son wanted to join in the lesson, Scott included him and helped him to train alongside me. Scott is a very warm and welcoming person and has helped to build my confidence in both myself and my training skills. I cannot thank Scott and the Arakan team enough for not only the training they provide, but the family feel also. I highly recommend Scott and the Arakan team to anyone who is wanting to gain confidence and learn self defence skills.

Jessica Boyd

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In your early to mid-20s, confidence is everything. It shapes how you show up at work, how you handle relationships, how you interact socially, and even how you see yourself when you look in the mirror.
The problem is, a lot of young men go searching for confidence in all the wrong places - in social media likes, in trying to impress people, in pretending to be someone they’re not. That kind of confidence is fragile. It crumbles the moment things get real.
Real confidence isn’t about faking it. Real confidence is unshakable because it’s earned. And one of the most powerful ways to earn it is through martial arts.
Let’s break down why.

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When you hear the words martial arts, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
For many, it’s images of punches, kicks, flying knees, or maybe a scene from a movie where the hero takes down a room full of bad guys. And sure, fighting is part of it. But if that’s all you see, you’re missing the bigger picture.
Martial arts - when you truly live it - is about far more than techniques. It’s a lifestyle, an identity, and a pathway to becoming the best version of yourself.
Especially for young men, stepping into martial arts can be one of the most powerful decisions you ever make.
Let’s go deep into why.

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