From Summer Camp...To Budding Martial Artist

I love to tell stories to illustrate my lessons, but this week I will share a story from the parent of one of my students...thank you Mr. M., sir.

“My son’s first experience with UMAC was attending summer camp with his two brothers (14, 11, and 6) in 2005. As summer camp was ending, Master Berlow told me that my son, who was entering 2nd grade, was “really, really, good at this” and “loved Taekwondo.” 

Eight years later...my son is a 3rd Degree Black Belt, an instructor in training, and a freshman in high school. And...he is “really, really, good at this’’ and gets better every year.

My son earned his 1st Degree Black Belt in 2007. And it wasn’t always easy. During belt testing, the final skill is board breaking. And for his Black Belt test he struggled to break the concrete brick...but he finally did it. 

At every belt level there are students who fail to break the board on their first or second try. Master Berlow is so happy when this occurs because it gives him a teaching moment to share. He gets the student to “focus,”reminding them “you can do this.” And after coaching on technique, he gets them to proclaim, “I’m going to break this board!” And in every case, the student breaks the board amid cheers from everyone in the room. This is inspirational and I know my son has developed perseverance and the “I’m going to do this” attitude.

My son was invited to become a member of the UMAC demonstration and leadership team. This team performs at village fairs, schools, and competes in tournaments. And because it is by invitation only, these are the best students. What a great feeling knowing that your son is considered a model student.

Motivated student leaders are invited to train to become instructors and enter a rigorous certification program, which upon passing gives them the opportunity to work at UMAC. Knowing that my son has a job waiting for him is terrific news. And the number of instructors who return during their college breaks is amazing and the credit goes to Master Berlow for nurturing his student’s skills and passion.

Upon graduating from a White Belt to a Yellow Belt, each student is taught to perform selfless acts of kindness in their everyday life. And with each belt the requirement for performing selfless acts increases. So a Black Belt should be performing many, many, many, selfless acts daily. This is demonstrated by the entire school and fostered by Master Berlow. Whether it is manning a water station at a local race or fundraising for a bigger cause, UMAC demonstrates great character. In 6th grade, my son was the top fundraiser for a school trip. He told me he raised so much extra money so that other less fortunate students would be able to attend. What more could a father ask for?

UMAC has provided a nurturing environment for my son, helping him become the person he is; focused, confident, respectful, doesn’t give up, goal-oriented with a sense of accomplishment, and giving of time and spirit. 

Thank you Master Berlow, to you and all your instructors, who have helped my son grow and mature.”

Thank you sir. And thank you for sharing. It is great that your son came out of our summer camp program and has really matured into an outstanding young adult. Yes, I am extremely proud of my school and my instructors, past and present; they are what makes UMAC what it is today. 

If you are looking for a summer camp program that teaches respect, discipline, and confidence in a safe "feel good" environment, contact me for more information. UMAC Summer Camp Registration is open, you can register today.

Please look for my weekly blog every Monday providing insights on "Living a Black Belt Life" and share this with your friends and family.

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