Mr David Giovenco
7th Degree Black Belt • Senior Professor of Kenpo 5.0 • Personal Student of Jeff Speakman
Head Instructor & Founder
David Giovenco is the founder and head instructor of KICKS Martial Arts in Newington — a school he built from the ground up to serve families and individuals across the local community. As one of only two people to hold the rank of 7th Degree Black Belt in Australasia and the system’s appointed representative, David brings a rare depth of technical knowledge and real-world experience to every class he teaches.
His focus is simple: develop people, not just martial artists. Whether working with a four-year-old in their first Tiny Tigers class or an adult refining their Black Belt technique, David’s approach is structured, purposeful, and built around the individual student’s growth.
Tested in Las Vegas
In 2004 in Las Vegas, David tested for his 1st Degree Black Belt in front of a panel including Mr Lou Angel, Sigun Steve Labounty, Mr ‘Benny the Jet’ Urquidez, Mr Dan Inosanto and Mr Gokor Chivichyan. Two years later he tested for his 2nd Degree in front of Mr Jeff Speakman and Mr Eric Lee.
Now holding a 7th Degree Black Belt — one of only two people to hold this rank in Australasia — David serves as the Kenpo 5.0 Representative for Australia.
Bringing Kenpo 5.0 to Australia
Born and still living in Sydney, Running a school in Newington teaching Kenpo 5.0 as taught to HIM directly by Mr Speakman. He travels interstate and overseas to Train With Mr Speakman as well as Hosting Mr Speakman’s yearly ‘Down Under’ training sessions to stay at the cutting edge.
Mr Speakman has always instilled in HIM the belief that a true martial artist leaves the world a better place than he found it. HE IS proud to be the one he chose to lead Australia in the evolution of Kenpo 5.0.
“A true martial artist leaves the world a better place than he found it. This is the first thing I teach at my school.”
David Giovenco — Representative of Kenpo 5.0 for Australia
Real-World Impact
David’s expertise extends well beyond the training floor. He has delivered safety, defence, and personal empowerment programs across government agencies, corporate organisations, and community services throughout NSW.
Secta Security
Tactical Defence Instructor at Australia’s largest registered training organisation — teaching security personnel eviction procedure, self-defence, and weapons training.
State Transit Authority (STA)
Conflict Resolution & Personal Safety Instructor for STA employees across NSW.
Women’s Domestic Violence Instructor
Government-endorsed personal safety instructor delivering empowerment and self-defence programs specifically for women experiencing domestic violence.
Government Endorsed Programs
Approved provider for the Department of Education and sub-contractor for the Department of Employment delivering mental health and wellbeing programs.
Three Roles, One Mission
KICKS Martial Arts
David founded and leads KICKS Martial Arts in Newington, building a thriving school that has served the local community since 2013.
Kenpo 5.0
The complete system David had always been searching for, taught directly by Grand Master Jeff Speakman.
Kenpo 5.0 Australia
One of only two people to hold the rank of 7th Degree Black Belt in Australasia, appointed as Australia’s representative by Grand Master Jeff Speakman.
David in Action
Train With David
Book your free trial class and experience David’s expert instruction firsthand. No experience needed — just bring your commitment.