Thursday, December 26, 2013

CTI Christmas Party

What a great way to celebrate the holidays!  Faith Mountain let us use their wonderful facility again for our annual CTI Christmas Party.  

Even with the winter weather whipping white flakes in the December sky, hundreds of students, family members and friends were able to come, relax and have some fun.  Just next door to the Green Mountain Campus, we started off the early evening with a little mingling and a tasty pot luck dinner that had a very festive feel.  

After dinner, the action started with some poomse for the crowd.  Master Merinda Sautel received recognition for her 30 years of Moo Sul Kwan training and Peyton Brauch was awarded his 1st dan black belt.  Then the CTI Elves got into the action . . . 

Brian Steward, head elf of the green team, squared off against Tyler Murphy and his red elf group.  Both merry groups of elves had a special elf-dance for everyone done to the tune of Run Run Rudolf played by Emily B. and the Mountain Block Boys.  Later each elf group sang their own special Christmas song to the delight of everyone at the party!  In addition to all of the holiday action, even more fun was had when a special visitor from the North Pole stopped by our party.

Special thanks to everyone for bringing the food items for the needy that helped us stock the Kings Cupboard (Food Bank)!  


Entertainment provided by Emily B. and the Mountain Block Band

Monday, December 16, 2013

Team Action at the Lee H. Park Team Champs

Honoring our founder Great Grandmaster Lee H. Park


The 15th Lee H. Park Team Championships took place at Alameda International High School on December 14th in Lakewood, Colorado.  Hundreds of students and instructors competed in different CTI Hanmadang team events.  Team Poomse, Team One-Step Sparring / Self-Defense, Team Creative Basics and Team Staff were exciting, along with the Breaking, Most Kicks in a Minute and the Basic Challenge divisions.

All ages and belts levels provided plenty of action for our many family members and friends who shared the day.  At halftime, some of the advanced black belts demonstrated poomse, staff and breaking for everyone. Congratulations to everyone who took part.  See you at our next CTI tournament, the CTI Super Bowl!

Results

TEAM POOMSE

1st place
Delaney Zandin, Eileen Lindner, Holly Madayag        
Sydney Brasseux, Tyler Gray                 
Porter Krause, Ysabella Bellotti, Quinn Nesline, Jaden Perez
Donovan Penrod, Zayne Lineberger, Cody Jacobson          
Taryn Bilyeu, Allie Warnick, Olivia Henthorn                
Irene Kim, Micco Waisanen, Lee Tomjack, Lindsey Boswell, Katie Dahle
Justin Lautrup, Thomas Ma, Theo Lincke, Lydia Lincke
Konner Evans, Peyton Barnard, Elise Smith, Kameron Evans, Grace Apodaca
Bruce Dean, Dean Loux, Kyle Feagans, Melodie Page, Mark Scott, Allyse Nothstine, Marcy Feagans
Gwen Gutierrez, Ryan Wyngarden, Evelyn LaMorgese
Nico Trilk, Santiago Huggins, Mohale Mitchell, Emily Artman, Jaden Wood
Brendan Zandin, Evan Strickfadden, Mya Reese
Caleb Feagans, Kai Wong, Peyton Brauch
Flint Hansell, Patrick O’Day, William Schwartz, Craig Campbell
Anya Trilk, Owen Martin, Meryn Probasco
Merrick Oleszek, Nina Madayag, Da Minh Tran

2nd place
Sally Morgan, Terry Copper, Zach Greaves, Jocelyn Wallen       
Annie Sautel, Sean Lawlor, McKenna Louth, Lexi Johannes, Andrew Madayag
Andy Milligan, L.J. Gayhardt, Brendan Arink, Alex Williams            
Akram Alghanmi, Kaddie Williams, Race Sober           
Franco Otero, Daniel Nelson, Ashton Buzick, T.J. Tibbetts, Declan Gunther, Jonah Elstad
Robbie Crandell, Devan Bagley, Charlie Smith, Lydia Willis, Jeffrey Bowen
Tyler MacBean, Porter Krause, Jaden Perez
Seth Hughes, Rick Orton, Melvin Marine    
Mason Louth, Nathaniel McKernan, Owen Hartmann
 Josh Miller, Sarah Luper, James Healey, Lilly Minor, Aiden Greco
Jennifer McKernan, Emma Hartmann, Natasha McKernan
Casey Feagans, Keet Holdridge, Mike Dean, Devon Lewis
Zoe Dickerson, Grayson Krause, Raymond Bellotti, Gigi Gittelman
Ryan Henderson, Tearny Kinnevy, Matthew Nguyen
Max Bogdanoff, David Bogdanoff
Grady Bahr, Augusto Jerez, Damon Bahr
Nico Huggins, Grant Haverkamp, Kirk Otteson

3rd place
Erik Ondrejko, Damian Rupp, Jack Eddy, Collin Kreutz                          
Thomas Sautel, Abbey Watkins, Tyler Murphy, Nate Watkins, Kathleen Sautel
Zach Bickford, Rylee Ross, Seamus Walsh     
Tessa Bries, Carol Terry, Andrew Smith, Deb Denny, Braeden Rooeny
Mathias Bauer, Mitchell Oleszek, Isabel Shoe       
Thor Hansen, Leif Hansen, Campbell Copt, Lars Hansen
Sabrina Jameson, Aspen Hawkins, C.J. Benton, Benjamin Kirschner, Jake Seele
Uriah Hernandez, Jarrod Eller, Hannah Hansell
Sigourney Zager, Brecken Lush, Ronin Selko, Micah Selko
Lauren Lundeen, Dante Hulin
Vinny Constantino, Abbey Salamera, Justin Nelson, Kayla Visnyei
Karen Carreon, Shekina DeTienne, Ethan Price, Carl Gibbons, Rob Sarche
Connor Brauch, T.J. Gutierrez, Devon Bilyeu
Gavin Pribil, Christina Manna, Amelia Lewis
Sean Huntley, Charley Greco

4th place    
Hope Morgan, Don Johnson, Alyssa Copper, Tanner Copper           
Michael Madayag, Coghan Spery, Emily Brophy             
Gillian Boswell, Adriana Carreon, Kylie Bickford, Osso Siddall
Benson White, Ridge Blue, Rachel Kirschnerai
Ryker Blue, Diesel DiPaola, Ethan Kirschner, Kaitlin Cassell, Caiden White
Alejandro Deppmeier, Chase Wyngarden, Jacobi Field
John Lindner, Lynne Dean, Keet Holdridge
Caela McCartney, Kenny Brancio, Johnny Williams, Zuzanna Janowska
Elizabeth Hawkins, Trish Nguyen
Calvin Jensen, Logan Gill, Sam La Morgese, Mya Field
Natalie Lundeen, Abby Lundeen, Brandon Dills
Birk Strickfadden, Lauren Dahlberg
Lucas Stolka, Andres Deppmeier, Grace Walther

TIGER POOMSE

1st place
Colin Palminteri    Aydon Lewis        Oliver Faler        Evalin Dickerson
Pierce Drozda        Xavier McRant        Jaxoson Wheat        Emerson Reseigh
Trenton Wheat        Kyle Janowski        Amadeo Sandoval    Caden Smutz
Kaylyn McEwan    David Orton        Alexander Escala    Carter Reynebeau
Keaton Girard        Scarlet Banks        Niko Martyna
        

ONE-STEP SPARRING / SELF-DEFENSE

1st place
Delaney Zandin, Erik Ondrejko, Annie Sautel         
Kaddie Williams, Tearny Kinnevy, Akram Alghanmi, Race Sober
Karen Carreon, Shekina DeTienne, Ethan Price, Rob Sarche
Mason Louth, Jennifer McKernan, Emma Hartmann, Nathaniel McKernan, Natasha McKernan
Kira Malmgren, Vivi Brown, Blenness Quintana, Addie Spery    
Patrick O’Day, William Schwartz, Flint Hansell, Melvin Marine, Hannah Hansell
Irene Kim, Micco Waisanen, Lee Tomjack, Lindsey Boswell, Katie Dahle
Abbey Watkins, Nate Watkins, Kathleen Sautel
Lynne Dean, Tessa Bries, Debbie Denny, Carol Terry, Braeden Rooney

2nd place
Sally Morgan, Terry Copper, Zach Greaves, Jocelyn Wallen
Michael Madayag, Coghan Spery, Kai Wong, Emily Brophy, Caleb Feagans, Peyton Brauch
Katy Dahle, Tearny Kinnevy
Kyle Feagans, Bruce Dean, Melodie Page, Mark Scott, Marcy Feagans, Allyse Nothstine, John Lindner
Thomas Ma, Lydia Lincke, Dante Hulin
Irene Kim, Lee Tomjack, Lindsey Bowell, Katie Dahle, Micco Waisanen
Theo Lincke, Lauren Lundeen, Dante Hulin
Lynne Dean, Tessa Bries, Carol Terry, Andrew Smith, Deb Denny, Braeden Rooney

3rd place
Damian Rupp, Jack Eddy       
Kaddie Williams, Tearny Kinnevy, Akram Alghanmi, Race Sober
Collin Kreutz, McKenna Louth, Lexi Johannes, Andrew Madayag 
Carl Gibbons, Ethan Price
Caela McCartney, Kenny Brancio, Johnny Williams, Peyton Barnard, Elise Smith, Grace Apodaca
Mason Louth, Jennifer McKernan, Nathaniel McKernan, Natasha McKernan, Owen Hartmann, Emma Hartmann
Seth Hughes, Rick Orton, Melvin Marine, Uriah Hernandez, Jarrod Eller, Hannah Hansell

4th place
Hope Morgan, Don Johnson, Alyssa Copper, Tanner Copper
Vivi Brown, Kira Malmgren, Blenness Quintana, Addie Spery
Mark Cordova, Kelsey Smith, Taryn Dwyer, Jakob Deverell
Justin Lautrup, Lauren Lundeen
Kira Malmren, Vivi Brown, Blenness Quintana, Addie Spery
Mark Cordova, Kelsey Smith, Taryn Dwyer, Jakob Deverell
Justin Lautrup, Thomas Ma, Lydia Lincke


BASICS CHALLENGE

1st place
Brendon Arnik        Daniel Nelson        Kyle Janoswki        Robbie Crandell
Cole Reseigh        Miette Jandreau        Thor Hansen        Ridge Blue
Gillian Boswell        Rylee Ross        Leif Hansen        Brynn Konrad
Merrick Oleszek    Jonah Sidwell        Jack O’Day        Mariah Cordova
Sierra Buzick        Andy Milligan        Sean Huntley        Zach Bickford
Emerson Reseigh    Jasmine Salamera    Jonah Elstad        Libby Girard

2nd place    
Cody Jacobson        Nina Madayag        Jaxson Wheat        Charlie Smith
Braeden Johnston    Taryn Bilyeu        Lucas Nomany        Campbell Copt
Aspen Hawkins        Colin Palminteri    Meryn Probasco    Lily Dwyer
Sean Konrad        Alex Williams        Osso Siddall        Sydney Brasseux
Olivia Henthorn        Tyler MacBean        Ryker Blue        Lars Hansen
Scarlett Banks        Mia Rubio        T.J. Tibbetts        Kylie Bickford


CREATIVE BASICS

1st place
Coghan Spery, Caleb Feagans, Kai Wong, Michael Madayag, Emily Brophy, Peyton Braugh
Delaney Zandin, Eileen Lindner, Holly Madayag
Casey Feagans, Keet Holdridge, Mike Dean, Devon Lewis, Grayson Krause, Zoe Dickerson, Ray Bellotti, Gigi Gittelman   
Vinny Constantion, Abbey Salamera, Justin Nelson, Kayla Visnyei
Kira Malmgren, Vivi Brown, Blenness Quintana, Addie Spery
Karen Carreon, Shekina DeTienne, Ethan Price, Carl Gibbons, Rob Sarche
Dakota Jesse, Sarah Dahle, Elizabeth Hawkins, Trish Nguyen
Irene Kim, Micco Waisanen, Lee Tomjack, Lindsey Boswell, Katie Dahle

2nd place
Annie Sautel, Jack Eddy, McKenna Louth, Andrew Madayag
Hope Morgan, Don Johnson, Tanner Copper, Alyssa Copper
Calvin Jensen, Gwen Gutierrez, Ryan Wyngarden, Mya Field, Sam LaMorgese
Evan Strickfadden, Mya Reese, Gavin Pribil
Julianne Todd, Theo Lincke, Lauren Lundeen, Dante Hulin
 Loux, Melodie Page, Bruce Dean, Kyle Feagans, Mark Scott, Marcy Feagans, Allyse Nothstine
John Lindner, Lynne Dean, Tessa Bries, Carol Terry, Debbie Denny, Braeden Rooney
Caela McCartney, Johnny Williams, Peyton Barnard, Kameron Evans, Elise Smith, Grace Apodaca


3rd place
Erik Ondrejko, Damian Rupp, Collin Kreutz, Sean Lawlor, Lexi Johannes
Sally Morgan, Terry Copper, Zach Greaves, Jocelyn Wallen
Nico Trilk, Mohale Mitchell, Santiago Huggins, Emily Artman, Jaden Wood
Jennifer McKernan, Mason Louth, Emma Hartmann, Nathaniel McKernan, Natasha McKernan, Owen Hartmann
Ryan Henderson, Tearny kinnevy, Matthew Nguyen
Mark Cordova, Kelsey Smith, Taryn Dwyer, Jakob Deverell, Seth Hughes
Rick Orton, Melvin Marine, Uriah Hernandez, Jarrod Eller, Hannah Hansell
Joshua Miller, Sarah Luper, James Healy, Lilly Minor, Aiden Greco

4th place
Thomas Sautel, Abbey Watkins, Tyler Murphy, Nate Watkins, Kathleen Sautel
Logan Gill, Evelyn La Morgese
Justin Lautrup, Thomas Ma, Lydia Lincke
Christina Manna, Amelia Lewis
Kenny Brancio, Konner Evans, Zuzanna Janowska
Jack Eller, Hunter Hansell          
Amelia Lewis, Christina Manna


BREAKING

1st place
Bridget Sautel        Thomas Sautel        Andrew Madayag    Michael Madayag    
Jocelyn Wallen        Don Johnson        Lynne Dean        Peyton Brauch
Rick Orton        Jack Eller        Grace Apodaca        Sam LaMorgese
Grayson Krause        Dante Hulin        Ryan Wyngarden    Brandin Zandan
Owen Hartmann    Rob Sarche        Keet Holdridge        Konner Evans
Vivi Brown        Connor Brauch        Santiago Huggins    Abbey Salamera
Jennifer McKernan    Mark Cordova        


MOST KICKS

1st place
Daniel Nelson        Brendan Arink        Aydon Lewis        Robbie Crandell
Cole Reseigh        Ethan Girard        Lucas Nomany        Ridge Blue
Nico Huggins        Rylee Ross        Meryn Probasco    Da Minh Tran
Devan Bagley        Ben Kirschner        Osso Siddall        Sydney Brasseux
Augusto Jerez        William Nomany    Ryker Blue        Zach Bickford
Trenton Wheat        Mia Rubio        Jonah Elstad        Amelia Lewis
Charley Smith        Kylie Bickford        

2nd place
Nina Madayag        Cody Jacobson        Kyle Janowski        Charlie Smith 
Braden Johnston    Taryn Bilyeu        Declan Gunther        Lance Schwartz
Porter Krause        Colin Palminteri    Grady Bahr        Brynn Konrad
Sean Konrad        Jonah Sidwell        Ashton Price        L. J. Gayhardt
Sean Haverkamp    Tyler MacBean        Diesel DiPaola        Patrick Konrad
Emerson Reseigh    Malaki McRant        T.J. Tibbetts        Matthew Nguyen
Sabrina Jameson    Mathias Bauer        

3rd place
Charley Greco        Andrew Myers        Amadeo Sandoval    Sabrina Jameson
Micah Selko        Miette Jandreau        Thor Hansen        Rachel Kirschner
Gillian Boswell        David Orton        Jaden Perez        Alex Price
Franco Otero        Samantha Biesemeier    Jack O’Day        Mariah Cordova
Sierra Buzick        Addy Milligan        Sean Huntley        Damon Bahr
Caden Smutz        Owen Martin        David Bogdanoff    Mya Reese

4th place
Ethan Kirschner        Dean Gunther        Jaxson Wheat        Chase Wyngarden
Seams Walsh        Ysabella Bellotti    Zayne Lineberger    Campbell Copt
Violet Banks        Sigourney Zager    Evalin Dickerson    Jennie Artez
Lydia Willis        Jacobi Field        Simone Schweich    Julian Marine
Lauren Dahlberg    Anya Trilk        Lucas Stolka        Erick Rodriguez
Lars Hansen        Oliver Faler        Scarlet Banks        Jasmine Salamera    
Max Bogdanoff        Allie Warnick        Evan Strickfadden
        

BLACK BELT DEMONSTRATIONS

Erik Albrechtson, Abdu Kikhia, Bridget Sautel, Brian Steward


TEAM STAFF POOMSE

1st place
Annie Sautel, Erik Ondrejko        Emily Brophy, Peyton Brauch
Michael Madayag, Kai Wong        Thomas Sautel, Tyler Murphy

2nd place
Hope Morgan, Alyssa Copper        Sean Lawlor, Michael Madayag
Caleb Feagans, Coghan Spery        Holly Madayag, Eileen Lindner

3rd place
Damian Rupp, Collin Kreutz        Thomas Sautel, Kathleen Sautel
Jack Eddy, Lexi Johannes        Eileen Lindner, Delany Zandin

Friday, December 6, 2013

Setting Goals

When you are reaching for a goal, you will find you are striving for higher ground.

By: Sally Morgan, 2nd dan

Setting goals is a very important part of life.  If you want to be happy and successful, setting goals is the key.

Setting a goal makes your vision of what you want more clear.  If you don’t see your end result clearly, you will never get there.  You can be very busy in your life, but if you are not clear about what you want, you are probably doing a lot of things that really do not matter to you.  When you set a goal, it focuses your energy into the things that really count and matter.

Setting a goal will drive you forward.  When you constantly have goals, you stay motivated.  It will keep you moving when things get tough.

If you want to increase your focus, setting goals can do just that.  They give you a focal point to put your attention to.  When you don’t have goals in your life, you tend to “float around randomly,” not really accomplishing anything.  You become misguided on what is important.  Setting goals keeps you from being swept away by everyday life activities.

Having a goal will give you accountability.  You can talk about doing something all day, but until you set a concrete goal, you’ll never take it anywhere.  Once you have a goal, you become obligated to achieve it.

What to be the best you can be, create goals.  Without goals, you live in a safe world.  You become comfortable with life as it is.  Being too comfortable can prevent you from growing.   When you are reaching for a goal, you will find you are striving for higher ground.  You stretch yourself out of your comfort zone.  Goals will help you overcome barriers and prevent you from settling for less than what you really desire.

With goals, you will get the best out of your life.  So take a moment and set a goal.  I guarantee you will grow, become better and live a healthier, happier life!

Saturday, November 30, 2013

How Your Children Can Benefit from Taekwondo

Many parents who are considering enrolling their children in martial arts training may wonder if there are benefits. Let us take taekwondo, for example. This type of martial arts is from Korea and can provide many benefits for children even in today’s world.

Assessing the Benefits

What are some of the benefits for children who are involved in martial arts training? Some of the things to consider are:

  • Physical fitness
  • Weight control
  • Improved concentration
  • Respect for other people
  • Substantial improvements in self confidence and self esteem
  • In addition to all the benefits children can obtain from taekwondo, they are also having fun. 

Fitness is a very important aspect of taekwondo, and quite honestly, it’s refreshing to see children so fit and sporting a healthy weight. Unfortunately there are far too many children in today’s world who are overweight simply because they don’t exercise and eat high energy foods.

Fun and Exercise Are Part of Taekwondo

Many people believe the human body is design for exercise. This is especially true of children who should run, jump and get out of breath while combining play and exercise. One of the many benefits of kids taekwondo is they have fun at the same time they are performing physical exercise. They gain physical fitness all around because the exercises in which they are engaged exercise their whole bodies. Even better is the fact they want to continue coming back.

Lessons to Learn

Martial arts training can provide a great many benefits, especially for young boys. For one thing the rigorous physical training provides an outlet for their boundless energy. Some of the other benefits of taekwondo for young boys include the following:


  • Allows them to kick and punch under controlled conditions
  • Teaches self-control
  • Teaches them the need for taekwondo to remain in the Dojang
  • Teachers are also great role models
  • Instructors are fit, healthy and controlled as well as being senior students

How Taekwondo Benefits Girls

While many people see taekwondo as a sport for boys, the reality is girls can benefit from martial arts training as well. For instance, when girls are fit and healthy they have a positive image of their bodies. They also develop self esteem and self confidence as a result of learning in person confrontation and develop power through wooden boards. It doesn’t matter whether the child is a boy or girl; kids taekwondo helps them become physically and menta
lly stronger.

Keep in mind taekwondo is not just about physical training; it’s also training for the mind. In kids taekwondo children learn complicated movements that help their memory and ability to concentrate. During martial arts training they also learn how to coordinate their bodies. The training involves a great deal of discipline, which teaches them how to gain the self-discipline they need to push forward no matter how difficult training is.

Training in taekwondo also teaches children about respect and courtesy. It begins with respect for the instructors and each other. This in turn teaches them to respect themselves. They learn the importance of being polite to everyone whether they like them or not—definitely a great skill to take with them into adulthood. Some of the other things they learn include:


  • How to persevere
  • How to press forward if something is difficult but worth achieving
  • How to face failure and move past it by picking themselves up and trying again

When children succeed the pride shows on their smiling faces. This gives a real boost to both their self confidence and self esteem. Taekwondo can help children become surer of themselves and ultimately gain the confidence they need to speak in front of the class or even perform a difficult pattern in front of a panel of judges, the kind of tasks that will help them become successful adults.

They will learn to teach and become mentors to the younger children which helps them learn and achieve patience and kindness. Eventually these children will become calm and self-assured young people who possess the self confidence they need to accomplish everything they need and want to do. In fact, those who have self esteem are less likely to engage in destructive behavior such as substance abuse. It also means children who have trained in kids taekwondo are not as likely to become victims of the school bully.

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Learning the Sport with Martial Arts Training

One thing to know about any of the martial arts is a person should not attempt to make the mistake of learning without a qualified instructor. Only by obtaining martial arts training can a person (adult or child) expect to learn enough to compete and become an expert in specific types of martial arts.

Choosing a Good School

Choosing the best martial arts school can be very difficult when you consider there are millions of schools just looking for an opportunity to have your business. Parents have a difficult time not only the martial art for their children but also the best school to meet the needs of the children. While no individual art is best for every child, martial arts in general provide many benefits that suit all children.

The biggest challenge is finding a good martial arts training instructor. Unfortunately not all schools have formal qualification guidelines for the teachers. This doesn't mean those schools do not employ good teachers, but the late of guidelines definitely make it difficult for parents who are trying to choose a good martial arts teacher for their children.

Familiarize Yourself with a Few Martial Arts Disciplines

Before you make a decision about the martial art form that is right for your child, take some time to learn about a few of the mainstream martial arts. You want to learn what they have to offer by sitting through a few classes. For instance, the technique players use in judo may cause someone to become pinned to the ground—this would not be a good sport for a claustrophobic child.

Conduct Some Research

The internet makes it very easy to take the time to research before making a decision about martial arts training for your child. The place to begin is to make a list of the schools in your local area and seek out websites for those facilities. The focus of your research should be to find a school that offers a formal program of education for its teachers. You want to search out schools that offer teaching ranks in addition to black belt ranking. These teaching ranks are a formal way of passing the marital art on to the student. This shows that teaching areas such as self discipline and self control are equally important in teaching sparring to a child.      

Be Happy with the Instructor Before You Choose the Facility

You don’t want to look at the facility until you are satisfied with the instructor. For instance, the training hall should be immaculate. You might be able to ascertain this if you see students cleaning before and after the training session. Do not see cleaning as menial forced labor but rather a task that shows the students care about their teacher and have a desire to preserve their art. This is something that may provide points to a small school that doesn't have the resources to provide formalized teaching ranks.

Be Aware of the Costs You Will Incur

Before you enroll your child in any martial arts training program including Colorado Taekwondo you need to be sure you know how much it will cost. You need to be aware that while there are great profit making businesses, there are also some non-profit schools that rely on the involvement of the students in order to remain open. Do not allow cost alone to define a great school, but this may be a tie-breaker for parents, especially those on a strict budget. There are even schools that arrange to pick your child up at his regular school, teach him martial arts on a daily basis and provide time for the completion of homework, but this cost will be extremely high. If you opt for the non-profit school (the least expensive), you need to keep in mind you or your child may need to volunteer time and effort for the facility to remain open.

Choose a School with a Local Standing

The school you choose should have a voice in your community. This shows it is interested in the community and the students who live and attend school in that community.

Sunday, November 24, 2013

What Makes a Good Leader?

By Marcy Feagans, red belt

Good leaders are willing to share their knowledge and experiences to help teach and guide others to greatness.  Leaders help others to learn by sharing their own knowledge and assisting others in their own personal development to better themselves. Good leaders possess qualities such as integrity, honesty, trustworthiness, patience and compassion.

It is important that as a leader the people around you consider you to have high integrity, always going to do the “right” thing and having high morals and values.  It is important to be honest, the followers will be loyal to the leader if they feel that they can trust someone, regardless of the situation – be it good or bad,  an easy or tough situation, but you will always know that you are telling the truth.  Along with honesty, goes trustworthiness because being honest will win over the followers trust, if they trust you then they will be loyal, try to achieve goals they did not think possible and follow direction because they are confident in the leader’s skills and leadership.

When teaching others, a key attribute is patience.  When teaching a new student or protégé it is important to have patience as that takes time and energy.  The student may need to repeat the action over and over again to learn a skill or as the teacher you may need to repeat the instruction or demonstrate the action to assist the student with learning.  Finally, leaders need to have compassion, all people are human and make mistakes, students often feel frustration and the compassion to understand people as people will help to ensure the best experience and learning for both the teacher and student.

Good leaders are leaders in every aspect of their life; at home, work/school, sports teams and in your community.  The qualities of a good leader will follow them in every aspect of their life – it is usually an innate part of one’s life to have high moral qualities and to show those qualities throughout your actions all the time, regardless if it is at school/work, at the taekwondo campus or at home with your family.  For example, while at work you lead as a good example in your sales integrity or providing good quality service, doing what is right for the customer always.  Being a role model while attending or leading a taekwondo class is important as you should be available during and after class doing poomse, willing to answer questions, and helping lower belts through skill practice.

In your community, you should be friendly and considerate of your neighbors such as, helping them rake leaves, pick up the trash can that blew across the road, or simply waving to them as you pass in the car which shows concern and passion to help take care of the people  and neighborhood around you.  It seems like such a simply gesture but a friendly wave to your neighbor or the UPS delivery man means so much to create a pleasant environment to live in.  If you enjoy the walk down the street or the time people take to say “hello” or care about your family vacation or recent illness it can make all the difference in the world.

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Achieving Fitness with Taekwondo

Using taekwondo as a training tool can be a great tool for getting your body into shape for peak performance. This allows you to make sure you do what is necessary to get the most from your body. A martial arts training program allows you to work diligently with what you have in order to become the best you can be. Have you ever thought about what you want to achieve?  There are ten training tips that will allow you to use taekwondo in order to reach those goals.

  • Routine variances

There are good reasons not to perform the same routines week after week. There are a few reasons it may be a good idea to seriously consider varying any type of exercise routine, no matter what type of routine that might be such as:

  • Your body and mind will become accustomed to the same routine
  • Your body will no longer be capable of adapting  to the exercise
  • You will discontinue growing mentally

To allow your body to enjoy a peak performance use taekwondo to occasionally give your body a jolt by alternating the types of exercises you do.

  • Get enough sleep

Like any type of routine, engaging in taekwondo is more successful when the body is well rested. If you get enough sleep your performance will be greatly improved. Proper sleep is also essential if you want to see a good athletic performance.

  • Strive for lean and strong muscles

In order to enjoy peak performance in this martial arts skill it is important to be work toward strong and lean muscles. While bulky muscles may work in other types of fitness regimens, taekwondo is not one of them. In fact, bulky muscles are completely useless and will do nothing but slow you down. In order to build strength during the performance of martial arts, it is best to use your own body weight.

  • Do not train every day

Your body is not a machine and if you attempt to work it too hard you will experience burn out. As a living thing, your body and mind need time to work and then rest in order to perform at optimum efficiency. You should train in bursts rather than trying to continuously train for months at a time. This will only cause burn out, and it is more than likely you will become frustrated and quit.

  • Engage in stretching exercises

Stretching plays an essential role when it comes to peak performance in taekwondo. You will find it very difficult to perform without stretching, and the high kicks will be very difficult to perform. Stretching provides flexibility for your body and helps you maintain good posture. There is reduced chance of injury if your body is flexible.

  • Learn to relax

One thing you will learn about taekwondo players is they are always very relaxed. Because of this they have the ability to make very solid and fast movements that also allow their bodies to endure impacts.

  • Eat food that is good for you

Those who perform taekwondo need the right fuel, and it’s quite obvious with this type of martial arts performance you live by the saying, “You are what you eat.” It is essential to consume the right portions of quality protein in order to build lean muscle. The best options are fish, chicken, lean red meat and eggs.

Build your energy with complex carbs such as whole wheat bread, oats, brown rice, brown pasta and potatoes. Eat five servings of fruit and vegetables every day to complete the regiment. Try to avoid sugar though in a competition you might consume an energy drink to get you through the last round.

  • Be ready to take on new challenges

Peak performance in taekwondo requires the player to be mentally alert. It’s essential to remember all your patterns in stressful situations and think clearly. In order to accomplish these things you must be physically fit, well-nourished and well-rested. You also want to take on new challenges and push yourself in order to work on more difficult board breaks.

  • Have fun!

The most important thing is to have fun. If you don’t enjoy what you are doing you’ll quit. It won’t matter whether you want to continue training; lack of pleasure in what you are doing will eventually cause you to give it up.

Monday, November 18, 2013

CTI Leadership Traits

By Bruce Dean, red belt

It is important for CTI students to be good leaders in our community.  As martial artists there remains a misconception in society about what we do in a dojang and the purpose of our studies.  There remains a belief among some that martial artists study so that they can “beat people up” and that we are inherently violent people.  It is therefore incumbent on us to do whatever we can to dispel such misconceptions, and by being good leaders in our community we can show that such thoughts about us and our sport are not true.

CTI students can be good leaders in our community in many ways.  The most direct is by being good citizens and good examples of civic responsibility.  From the seemingly obvious requirement of obeying the law, to more subtle actions like helping the elderly or impaired with their groceries in the parking lot of Safeway, a CTI student can show leadership by demonstrating that he or she is a good citizen.  One need not necessarily run for community office to be a good leader.  Rather, one of the best ways is to simply “go do the right thing”.  This may include volunteering, or simply acting on something.

Leaders have vision.  They are  able to develop relationships, able to resolve conflicts, good problem solver, good motivator.  Vision is a leader’s concept of what they intend to accomplish and how they plan to get there.  It is their destination, where they intend to go.  Without the destination there is nowhere for anyone to follow the leader to.

Another important aspect is the ability to resolve conflicts.  It's important because as a leader, you have a team. And conflict within a team can destroy it.

Being good at solving problems is important because even though a leader must have a vision of what they intend to accomplish and how to get there, the path is rarely without obstacles.  So, if a leader is not good at solving problems – the obstacles in the path – then the leader will not be able to accomplish his/her vision

Being a good motivator is important because as a true leader, you are leading by example – you are inspiring them to follow, rather than a commander who drives people from behind.  And since you must inspire people to follow a good leader must motivate them to do so.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

CTI Leadership

By Mark Scott, red belt


Leadership requires many traits including being knowledgeable, responsible, decisive, capable, and selfless.  Leadership requires knowledge and credibility to create the feeling of trust with the follower.  The trust might take a long period of time, so the behavior must be consistent.

Leaders must act responsibly to direct the goals for the group in a manner that creates the best outcome for the group.  This direction must also be decisive for the leader to keep focus for the group to achieve the goals.  The leader should also be capable and willing to perform any tasks directed to the followers which will create loyalty.  By being willing to do the same tasks asked of any member, the leader proves the selfless quality.

Being a leader is different than being the manager.  At work, there are many managers that can direct the workers.  The leaders are the people that have proven to act responsibly and with integrity.  Leaders are the people that can accurately answer questions.  Also, a leader might not know the answer, but the leader can either find the answer or provide the direction to search for the answer.

The leader also provides a good example.  Others in the company can see the true leader doing what is necessary to achieve the goals.  A true leader at work also knows and uses the strengths of those around him.  I can become a better leader at work by doing my job to the best of my ability.  To become a leader, I should keep learning to become better.  I should also know when to help and where to get help when I need it.  The more I learn, the more I become more capable and confident.  After a time, I will become known for giving responsible advice and taking the appropriate actions.

At home, the leader must also be willing to be selfless and caring in relationships.  The leader must be responsible in the big decisions.  Creating trust at home is one of the most important qualities.

When performing sports, trust is also very important for the team aspect.  Another important quality for a leader in sports is to be the hardest worker.  The hardest worker will perform the best and will become the example.  The leader in sports will also show the correct attitude, showing sportsmanship whether winning or losing.

CTI students should be leaders in all aspects of their lives because of the qualities gained through the CTI training.  The CTI students work hard and have discipline derived from the hard work that can be applied to any area in life.  The CTI students learn to be responsible through the control required by having the ability to hurt others physically, but the knowledge to know how to hold off and maintain control.  CTI students also learn respect for others through competition and working out together.  The CTI student also learns the necessity of following the rules necessary for being a part of society.  By following the rules, a leader can set examples for others with lower moral values.

The positive attributes of the CTI student coupled with the confidence gained by leading and training, requires the CTI student to be an active member of the community.  The desire to help others and to do the right thing should be a driving principle for leading and taking responsibility as a community.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

CTI Food / Clothing Drive


I just wanted to let everyone know that the CTI Food / Clothing Drive was a HUGE success.  Thank you if you brought in clothing or food this month.

Thank you to the 73 students and family members who went door to door today collecting food!

This morning I went next door to the food bank, King's Cupboard, and their shelves were bare.  They had just spent $600 on food and fed 70 individuals just today but it had wiped them almost completely out.  We were able to fill their shelves again and give LOTS of food to the Jeffco Action Center.

The clothing donations will go a long way to replenish the shelves at the Alameda Clothing Closet and we were able to donate quite a bit to King's Cupboard for their clothing closet.

It is so great knowing that our students and families are so very generous with donations and their time.  Thank you again for everything.

Merinda Sautel, 6th dan
Colorado Taekwondo Institute

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

The Beginning of Mainstream Martial Arts

In the mid 20th century, Taekwondo black belts and other martial artists were considered inferior by street fighters and other newer forms of fighting. But with the sudden rise of Mixed Martial Arts training in the late 1990’s into the main events of today with pay-per-view casting, certain martial art forms have experienced a revival of interest. With the support of mainstream media, people were exposed to martial arts training and have since contributed to the growing rise in popularity, particularly in taekwondo.

Chuck Norris, 8th degree black belt Grand Master in karate, heavily popularized the sport through film, not to mention the multiple world championship titles he achieved. He has dedicated his life to martial arts training and secured taekwondo as one of the world’s greatest forms of martial arts. Many grand master martial artists are well regarded within in the martial arts community, but Norris redefined everything. Other styles are similar but not considered as efficient as Taekwondo.

Even the beloved “Al Bundy,” Ed O’Neill from the TV Show “Married with Children,” off screen, is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at the age of 67. Martial artists decorated by their many years of training, are generally confident and modest, and serve as a great role models for the community, especially children. O’Neill was training with one of the greatest names in MMA, the Gracie family, renown for their unique fighting style.

Another “actor” that is a notable fighter worldwide aside from Chuck Norris, is definitely Steven Seagal, a 7th-dan black belt. His action packed films and the fact he was a real life law enforcement officer has been a major influence in the martial arts community.

Arguably, one of the most famous known martial art practictioners, was Elvis Presley.  The “King” was a black belt in Karate and studied under Ed Parker, a renown Kenpo martial artist as well as a celebrity trainer.  Nowadays, the Mixed Martial Arts community is larger than ever expected.

Millions of Americans and Europeans fill up Sports Bars to watch the Pay-Per-Views on Saturday nights, especially of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.  There are several Taekwondo styled athletes involved in the UFC. Forrest Griffin, the original “Ultimate Fighter” TV series winner is notably one of the most recognized as well as a first to come to mind.  The Ultimate Fighter TV series is now on its 12th season and tops in the ratings amongst viewing pools.  The climb to popularity has been steep for martial artists in the Western world. But, with such notable figures, Taekwondo and other forms have become more mainstream than ever.

Monday, October 21, 2013

Martial Arts for Everyday Application

Martial arts describes a wide range of cultural combatant techniques that have been integrated in many facets of human existence. Long before any gun could fire or sword strike down a man, people have used their own bodies as weapons for millenniums. Even as far back as Ancient Egypt, scenes within their art and writing system of hieroglyphics depict organized fighting techniques, especially between two people, that is very much like the competitive martial arts we see today.

Throughout history, warfare has evolved to incorporate very technologically advanced equipment. Soldiers have vision in the night time, sensors detect land mines, and supersonic missiles are shot down mid flight. Firearms are only one of the many tools modern soldiers use in the field. And still, every military integrates martial arts in their training programs because it is the foundation every soldier needs to be ready for deployment.

Becoming a soldier, though, is only one occupation of the many to choose from in the world, but most surprisingly, store clerks, history teachers, and even corporate leaders may practice martial arts rigorously.  For many individuals spread among all demographics, the practice of combatant art forms serve more than just a fighting purpose. There is as much emphasis on body training as there are mental training, as well as spiritual growth.

A great example of an alternative reason for undertaking martial arts is self defense. A typical well rounded citizen does not spend their time scanning the streets for a fight. But needless to say, thousands of people every year are harmed because of the small criminal population in society. Through even basic training in self defense, several people have successful fought off attempted thievery, rape, and bullying.

Since martial arts was designed for application in all facets of daily life, other people have used it to maintain a mental discipline. To master any skill or craft, it requires constant high levels of devoted time, attention, and of course practice. The will, though, to continue training develops a mental strength  of discipline that can only benefit a practitioner. Even for self defense measures, the successful physical execution will require the same commitment on a mental level.

If you're searching for an activity that is fun, useful, and in all ways beneficial, then martial arts should be your first consideration. Any practitioner, both beginner and grand master levels, can attest to the everyday benefits derived from martial arts training.

Friday, October 18, 2013

Great Exercise for All Ages

The martial arts have been around for many generations. Many people practice the sport for many different reasons. Some people do it for self defense, other people do it so that they can stay in shape. Some of the people that can benefit most from the martial arts are the elderly people. It can be a vital thing for them to learn because of their age.

Practicing martial arts is great exercise.  It is one of the many benefits that you can notice right away. As a person gets older, their body needs to get more exercise than it had the previous year. The martial arts are perfect for that need. The martial arts use all of the body parts. The legs, arms, thighs, stomach and chest all benefit when you are practicing the martial arts.

The martial arts can also be an amazing aerobic exercise. It depends on the reaction time of your kicks and punches, but martial arts can easily get your heart rate up. Elderly people are very susceptible to ailments such as heart disease, stroke and cancer. Getting lots of oxygen into the body can help avoid this, and the martial arts can be a great tool that can lend a hand.

Another spectacular benefit that the martial arts present for the elderly is that it is great for protection. Any elderly person that learns the martial arts will be able to protect him or herself when it comes to certain dangers. Often elderly people live by themselves, so knowing the basics of self defense can really help.

A lot of people looking to prey on someone will look towards the elderly because they think that they are weak and defenseless, but if an elderly person is skilled in the martial arts, a predator will not know what hit them, literally! Learning how to defend oneself can also serve as a great confidence booster.

Martial arts can usher in an amazing benefit not just for elderly people, but for anyone. They will not be alone and they will get a sense of community. Senior citizens can often be very lonely. Martial arts classes have plenty of people who attend class every day. Taking Taekwondo can be a great way for senior citizens to meet new people that have similar interests. It will provide them with a way to leave their same daily routine for a while.

Martial arts impact on an elderly person’s life can be great. There are many positive qualities that the elderly can adopt through practicing the martial arts.

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Shoo the Bullies away with Taekwondo

Not unlike many other kids around the globe, Maxine Ingram was a target for bullies in her school.  But unlike many her peers who were bullied, she was targeted for being blind.

One day in a school corridor she was singled out by a few bullies because she was blind. At this point she had two choices: to stay and fight the bullies or back down and take a rough beating.  Luckily, for Maxine, she was trained in martial arts, so she was able to fight back. But she wasn’t always trained to keep the bullies at bay.

Maxine Ingram, from Trimsaran, in West Wales, was born entirely blind after not having sufficient oxygen at birth. Following her few years at a blind institute, she was transferred into mainstream education at the age of seven.

"My mother wanted me integrated in an able-bodied school,” said Maxine. “She believed spending so long in a specially-equipped blind school would only make entering a sighted community more difficult.”

Her mother Val often encouraged Maxine's three siblings to 'rough and tumble' with her to give her more confidence to fight back.

"It definitely did the job too, trust me, because children can be very nasty!" Val said.

While Maxine did have a good circle of friends at school, she was soon to become the target of bullies.

"A lot of the kids were quite mean,” said Maxine. “They'd call me 'one-eye bandit' and things like that. It didn't affect me too badly until they beat me up. I obviously didn't see the first punch so they knocked me quite hard and it took me by surprise. But once I felt the initial hit I was able to strike back. And I did.”

Once Maxine had begun her martial arts training, "No-one wanted to mess with me after that," she said.

"I'd tried most sports but because I'm totally blind I'd have to have a guide. All I needed for martial arts was a sighted training partner and a coach. It's just you, your referee and your opponent. My disability allows me to catch sighted and visually impaired opponents off guard. My grip is incredibly strong, which they don't like, and also my spatial awareness is good.”

And now that 12 years have gone by, Maxine, 26, is preparing for her second Paralympic trials as the only British female judo player at her level sighted or blind.

Monday, October 14, 2013

Trio of excellence

Renee Bramhall isn't a “mean” person, and at first glance she isn’t very intimidating at 5 foot, 1 inch, but none of that matters when it comes to taekwondo.

The sport is meant to be a peaceful martial art that focuses on avoiding conflict and being prepared to defend yourself if a situation escalates. Still, some might ask how and why this 47-year-old got started. Until three years ago, Bramhall was more comfortable on a treadmill or elliptical machine.

When her boys, Chris, 10, and Steve, 11, showed an interest in taekwondo, Bramhall signed up, too. They had observed Swanson’s taekwondo students practicing in the Cooper YMCA gym while there for swimming lessons. “I got into it to support the boys,” said Bramhall.

In turn, her boys keep her committed and going. All three have achieved brown belt rank. Bramhall’s husband refers to the trio as the three ninjas.

“She’s one of those people who have a positive outlook on life and who is always encouraging her boys to try harder,” said instructor Jason Swanson. Renee and both of her boys have attended additional activities such as an optional Friday night sparring class and tournaments.

At the two tournaments in which she’s competed, Bramhall took first in sparring for brown belts in her age group and a first and third place for her form. “It takes a little bit of extra courage to do that, to test their skills against others outside of class,” Swanson said.

Bramhall said she gets a lot out of the art, including exercise, practice in self-control and discipline. She added that learning self-control is good for kids and parents alike.

Swanson shared that he has seen Bramhall develop some additional patience, in part because she knows herself how difficult the techniques are that she and her boys are learning.

For Bramhall, the atmosphere at Swanson’s is just right. “Everybody is really friendly,” she explained. “They’re always supportive. They’re right beside you, encouraging you with the techniques.”

For example, Bramhall said, if she is sparring, an instructor might stop the fight and suggest a specific move. “They want you to get better,” she stressed.

Sunday, October 13, 2013

18th MSK Black Belt Symposium

This year's Symposium was fantastic!  Moo Sul Kwan upper belts got together at the Inn at SilverCreek in Granby, Colorado, for a three day weekend of training and fun.

The AMASEA and Moo Sul Kwan provide its instuctors and future instructors consistant education and training in their martial art.  The American Martial Arts Sports and Education Association was founded by Great Grandmaster Lee H. Park, founder of Moo Sul Kwan in the United States in 1981, to further the expertise of its instructors.

The past seventeen Symposiums have been held at different incredible places in Colorado, from Winter Park to the UCCS Campus, to Breckenridge and more.  This year's annual special upper belt event took place on October 11 - 13.

The theme of the 18th Moo Sul Kwan Black Belt Symposium was, "Again and Again."  There were seminars classes in advanced kicking, poomse, teaching, staff, self-defense, sparring and much more.  Events, such as the Symposium Adventures V and the Symposium Saturday Night Banquet kept everyone filled with many experiences!

This year's MSK Black Belt Symposium staff included; Grandmaster James M. Sautel, Master Merinda J. Sautel, Master John T. Sautel and Master Erik R. Albrechtson.

Our own black belt band, Hoshinmotion, played at the Saturday evening Symposium Banquet.  Between songs, special CTI World Tour Etiquette Commercials were shown featuring the theme, "Etiquette in South Korea" to the delight of the crowd.

The next CTI event is the annual Lee H. Park Team Championships in December.  It will be our 5th CTI Hanmadang and is at Alameda International High School.

Sunday, October 6, 2013

Keeping Your Children Focused

It is no secret that education is undoubtedly vital for a child’s success in life. They can read the Saturday paper to scan the employment ads; they can write a thank you card to a person who interviewed them for employment; they learn how to create a good resume; They can make correct change; these are all crucial skills for child to learn if they are going to survive in the competitive job market when they grow older. But are there some things that a public school cannot teach a child? If you are looking to expand your child’s horizons even further, prepare them for the real world even more, or even help them do better in school, then you might want to get your child involved in martial arts.

Martial arts promote self-discipline in ways that hardly any other after-school activities can match. They will learn to focus on achieving their goals, they will learn how to rely on their self rather than a group, and they will feel a need to attend class regularly (even when they don’t feel like it). All of these attributes of discipline will carry over into their work at school.

The ability to memorize will be taught to them in the forms of the martial arts. These forms of martial arts movements can be fairly complex and can really test a child’s ability to remember them. This stimulation of the brain helps children remember their studies better.

Their child’s ability to focus is a huge dilemma for some parents. In martial arts, students must watch, listen, and engage all other senses to learn the techniques, at the same time tuning out distractions. By the time these children reach black belt, they have a incredible focus.

Respect is something that will make or break a child’s efforts at school. Martial arts highly emphasize the value of respect and children will be at a big advantage at school and in later life if they treat others with respect. They will also learn respect for self, which means they will be able to resist peer pressure.

The martial arts build accountability from day one. If you master a series of techniques, you earn your stripe or belt. If you don’t do your best, the disappointment you feel at not getting your belt will teach you to be accountable to yourself and try much harder next time. Being accountable to oneself is necessary for success in school, and also in life.

Give your children the edge in school; get them in a martial arts program. You won’t regret it.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

The Tenets Working for Us

By Don Johnson, 1st dan

The tenets of Taekwondo: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.  They are the basic principles of success used to reach the goal of Moo Sul Kwan black belt.  Principles are like gravity, they work whether you know them or not, but if you make them a part of your daily life, you cannot fail.

Looking at each tenet:

  1. Courtesy-  Humans are social animals designed to work together.  Our ability to succeed is improved with help from others. By being courteous more people will be willing to help us achieve our goals.
  2. Integrity-  Honesty and high moral principle will prevent us from taking short cuts or slacking off.  As Abraham Lincoln said " You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you can't fool all of the people all of the time".  We know when we are giving 100%, and integrity will keep us on course to our goals. 
  3. Perseverance- Unlike baseball, in MSK Taekwondo 3 strikes and we are not out.  Keep pushing and never quit.  Success is just around the next corner. 
  4. Self-control-  The exercise of restraint over ourselves keeps us from being sidetracked from our goals.  If we don't control ourselves someone else will. 
  5. Indomitable Spirit-  An unconquerable will that gets us past any set back we come across.  We will persist without exception because failure is not an option.  Our outer world is determined by oury inner thoughts, whether we think we can, or think we cannot, we are right.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

History of Taekwondo Competition for Kids

Most people think of taekwondo as an adult sport—at least when it comes to competition. Children learn the sport and may participate locally, but many think “Competition is for adults.” There were no competitions designed specifically for children until recently. Previously they were treated just like smaller versions of the adults.

The Beginning

There is no question that taekwondo is a great sport for children to learn but until recently there were no competitions designed specifically for children. Kids taekwondo competition was virtually unheard of. Does that mean children didn’t compete? Certainly there were competitions, but the children were treated simply as small adults rather than actually having competitions that were designed for them. The training techniques and rules for competing were no different than those for adults.

In fact, the very first world taekwondo championship for children only recently took place in Sindelfingen, Germany. This was the result of efforts by the World Children Takewondo Union to change the rules of the competition in order to allow children to compete on their own merits. This also would allow them to enter into a class of their own rather than having to meet the qualifications of adults.

New Rules

This competition took place on February 2nd and 3rd of 2013 at the Glaspalast. The venue is no stranger to those in the world of taekwondo since both the 1979 World Championships and the 1998 World Cup were both held there. It allowed 1050 children from 31 countries and approximately 120 clubs to compete in Kyorugi and Poomsae contests. There were also two new competitions introduced: Family Poomsae and Family Kyorugi.

In order to accommodate the children the World CTU introduced special rules for Kyorugi. For starters the fighting area is smaller than the one the adults use, and there is a limit to the point gap that is allowed to occur. The point gap is limited to five points if it occurs in round two or three, and at that point the fight stops immediately. This prevents any of the children from losing with a point gap of six or more points. This is in the children’s favor because many children who lose with a high point gap will lose both the fight and their desire to continue participating in taekwondo. This also helps the parents who may have to deal with crying children along with their own disappointment.

During the Family Poomsae and Kyorgui both children and one of the parents compete together. The purpose of this introduction by World CTU is to not only motivate them but also provide a means for parents and children to spend more time together and to encourage them to communicate more. Their hope is these special family contests will serve their purpose well.    

Contest Results

There were five potential winners in the competition, and they were as follows:


  • First Place in the Team Score – “Team Berthold Brecht Schule” from Nuremberg, Germany
  • Second Place was awarded to Team Elite, also from Nuremberg, Germany and one of the strongholds in Germany’s Taekwondo competition
  • Third Place went to Team Tyrol from Austria
  • Fourth Place went to Team Greece
  • Fifth Place went to Team Dachau from Germany

The World CTU is proud of the success of this first championship effort with another World Children Takewondo Championship scheduled in 2014. World CTU promises to work hard to make improvements in the system for competition for children as each year approaches. The competition in 2013 was an excellent experience and just the beginning for more and better competitions to come according to the World CTU president. His remarks came following the awards ceremony.

Early Preparations

The competition did not proceed without a great deal of planning. Prior to the start of the competitions, the World CTU held the very first General Assembly to discuss many of the rules and foundations of the Union. These items of discussion included the following:

  • Statutes
  • Rules
  • Regulations
  • Budget plan

This was also the time when they chose to appoint some important executive officials that included two Vice Presidents. Their goal at this point is to motivate supporters for World CTU all over the world but especially in Asia. Congratulations sincerely with all the global Taekwondo family for the 1st World Children Taekwondo Championships in Germany.

The Future

This very first contest is only the beginning for setting an invaluable place for everyone worldwide to communicate the taekwondo spirit with one another and share friendship through competitive games. This is only the beginning for the children who will now be able to play kids taekwondo on their own levels rather than attempting to compete on the same level as adults.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Self-Esteem, Self-Worth, and Self-Defense

Developing self esteem is crucial to living. Having high self esteem just makes you feel good! Consider the following. Have you ever meet an amazing person and not wanted to change your life with them; and not even the wealthy ones? Have you ever felt 100% pleased with your life? Just feeling the joy to be alive and breathe the air and want nothing more?

When you have high self esteem you have feelings like these constantly! You are happy with simplest of things. You have a smile on your face as you saunter down the street. You have no desire to exchange lives with anyone else. You are happy right now, in this moment, and you are happy exactly as you are!

Having high self esteem makes you a positive person. And the amazing thing about being a positive human being is that you are frequently happy. Your happiness spreads to all the people around you. And when people around you feel happier they extend happiness to people they meet.

So how can Taekwondo training help you develop your self esteem? Taekwondo training creates a robust, fit body for you that feels excellent and looks first-class. This helps you feel good about yourself not only because of your looks but because you generally feel healthier. And it's no charade; you legitimately have a profound inner assurance and joy. You have high self esteem!

Taekwondo doesn't just improve your body. You constantly train you brain to think quickly and react fast as you learn complex moves. And it is quite difficult, you must force yourself to keep moving forward when you want to quit. Keep going when your muscles are screaming at you to stop. Keep going when your chest is aching from hard work. Keep going when you're scared.

Martial arts training helps you to become strong in mind and body. And the support of positive views and a sound mind helps so much when life hits you with the bad stuff. If you are in the gutter with low self esteem it's hard to get through the bad times. But, if you're sitting tall with self esteem you can manage the bad times loads better.

It's worth knowing that, for parents, to help your kids develop self esteem, you need to have high self esteem yourself. And self esteem for a child is very crucial. It greatly assists kids in doing well in school and help them take on new challenges. Signing yourself up for a martial arts program and signing your child up for kids karate or kids taekwondo will greatly improve your self esteem, your child’s self esteem and you will generally feel happier!