Derek’s Black Belt Journey

Every black belt has a story to tell and that story can inspire others.

Here is Derek’s story,

Master Helsdon

All right, Derek, so you just got promoted. Ask you guys just a couple of questions. So, when you first came in to start, what were you looking for Derek to gain? What brought you guys in the first place?

Mom

Well, he was four and so we were just looking for an activity where he could expend some energy, but then also learn a little focus and discipline. And so, we tried out karate, and he jumped right in. And there was a few times along the way, I know that he was kind of like, “Oh, do I have to keep going? I don’t know.” And I’d be like, “You can stop whenever you want.” And then he’d… “No, I want to get my black belt.” And I mean, that started at a really young age even. As soon as he was in, he is like, “No, I have to get my black belt. Why would I quit?”

So, it’s obviously now six years later, he’s come a long way. I think just there were times where I wouldn’t be dropping him off or picking him up, and then I’d come in and just to see the difference and how much he’d progressed just in karate, like watching him do the forms or even stopping and helping some of the younger kids at that point too. Like, “No, this is how you do it.” Especially, if it’s the one steps or something, like helping others. I think the biggest thing I’d say improvement wise would be kind of being a better leader and helping others out and kind of helping demonstrate or show the right way. I’ve seen that even in soccer and baseball with some of his teammates. I think that would be the biggest improvement or noticeable thing I’ve seen from karate.

Master Helsdon

Excellent. What was something along the way that maybe got in your way, an obstacle, something that might have stopped you, but you pushed through?

Derek

The essays.

Master Helsdon

Oh, writing the essays for the test, yeah.

Derek:

Those and when the COVID, when we had to do Zoom.

Master Helsdon

Oh yeah, that was tough-

Mom

That was hard-

Derek:

I hated it.

Master Helsdon

Yeah, we all did. We all did. But, are you happy you pushed through?

Derek:

Yes.

Master Helsdon

How do you feel now that you’re on the other side?

Derek:

Good, really good.

Master Helsdon

What would you tell a student that maybe was struggling a little bit? What would you tell them?

Derek:

Don’t stop.

Just keep pushing no matter what.