Tae Kwon Do

Garrett has been taking tae kwon do (hereafter known as tkd) for almost 2 years now. It is a sport that really fits his personality. We went the usual route with him at first: soccer, t-ball, basketball, but none of those really worked for him. He liked the basketball somewhat but hated the soccer and was bored with t-ball, mostly because he was always stuck out in the outfield because he could throw pretty far. He has asked to play football lately, apparently they played alot at recess, but was too late to play fall ball. He says that he wants to play for BYU and then turn pro:) For now, however, tkd is it. I think he does much better with intense, mentally-challenging, individual sports than with team sports. And tkd has been great for him. It is a sport that emphasizes self-control, focus, and respect for others. Who doesn't want that for their child? They recite the student creed and pledge sometimes:

The Student Creed:
To build true confidence
through knowledge in the mind, honesty in the heart, and strength in the body.
To keep friendship with one another, and to build a strong and happy community.
Never fight to achieve selfish ends, but to develop
MIGHT FOR RIGHT

The Student Pledge:
I Will
Develop myself in a positive manner and avoid anything that can reduce my mental growth and physical health.
I Will
Develop self-discipline in order to bring out the best in myself and others.
I Will
Use what I have learned in class constructively and defensively to help myself and my fellow people, and to never be abusive or offensive.
We Are
A Black Di School, we are dedicated, we are motivated, we are on a quest to be the best.
KIA!!!

Today he had a test for a new di (belt). He currently has a yellow/orange belt and tested for an orange belt. It was a rigorous 3 hour test that included lots of jumping jacks, pushups, situps, kicks, and some sparring. He did really well and should get his orange di. Sensei has always been very complimentary and supportive of Garrett. He has been a wonderful, positive role model for him. Garrett has even talked of having his own martial arts club some day. That remains to be seen but I know that Garrett will take with him many very positive things from his experiences with tkd!