AMA Builds Black Belts

"I am not sure if you are looking for feedback on the two blue belt
instructors that taught last night, the two girls were wonderful with
the kids.  It was a big group of boys, the girls were firm and fair and
Clark really enjoyed their warm up races.  I enjoyed their positive tone
of voice and reinforcement with the students and they were very good at
correcting the students with their stances for punches.  It was a great
opportunity for Clark to see that if he works hard and moves up in his
belts, he will be a leader one day too."~Mrs. Osbourne

One of my core beliefs is that we build black belts here. The belts are not just given away for nothing, and our students have earner their colours. This is important because of what the black belt represents to me as a Sensei. A black belt is a leader, a person of good character, some one who knows what loyalty means, and some one who is willing to give back even when it is not convenient.

We had two families step up last night to cover classes for me because due to some unforeseen circumstances Mrs. Creighton and I were unable to make it back into Milton on time to open the dojo. Most of you realize this is a rare occurrence. I am reluctant to put others in a position that would put the dojo in the way of their non karate lives. Of course when you are in a bind it doesn't hurt to ask.

I asked one blue belt to come open up, and to my surprise I got 4! People left work early, and even skipped out on carpools to make it to the dojo to do their part. I have to say I was blown away by the teamwork and selflessness involved. I have to say I'm proud to be apart of this dojo. To be surrounded by a group of dedicated martial artists, and I hope all of you are too because these are your role models. These are the people you bring your kids to come see and emulate.

I also wanted to remind our students and parents of our assisting requirements. At Red Belt, for our kids / Youth students, you now become part of our youth leadership program. This is not optional, and has been in place at the AMA for the last 25 years. You are required to perform a minimum of 20hrs of assisting at the dojo in order to be eligible for your next rank. For our Adults, Orange belt and up, it is 40hrs. If you are not assisting a class yet, and you fall into this group, please contact the front desk to make arrangements.

Sensei