phillyman,
I had worked with PFS guys before like Thom Cruse, and had attended some privates, and seminars.
To be perfectly honest, Paul gave me the rank the first time I went to his home for one of his IPTP trainings.
I already had lots of experience beforehand, and sparred with three different guys I think in grappling, punching ranges, and weapons. Everything was pretty much full contact, except the headbutting and stuff...that was simulated.
Um...I went through his RAT program, drilled different kinds of hubud drills, etc so he could see my body mechanics, and sparred full contact with stick and knife (wooden knife) I also grappled for a hell of a long time, and even though my grappling wasn't that wonderful back then, I still knew enough to keep myself rolling.
The funny thing was, I didn't know what a Phase 1 was. I was hoping for an "apprentice" instructorship, and Paul said after our training "You're a Phase 1, not an apprentice..."
LOL!! I actually thought phase 1 was below apprentice, and kind of swallowed my pride, and said "well at least I was able to get that, it's an honor" or something like that...and Paul looked at me and said "Huh?? No Phase 1 is higher!"
Really funny moment.
But like I said, it's been years, so it's not a valid instructorship now, I'm sure. I in no way claim to be an instructor in PFS.
hope this helped.
Take care,
Ryu