Taekwondo Central End Of Year Get Together
We invite all Little Dragonflies, Little Dragons, Super Dragons & Taekwondo Central students & family to our end of year get together to celebrate a great year for our club on our 20th year of operation
Cancelled to a later date due to high levels of smoke in the air
BYO Drinks, BBQ or Fish n Chips
Hope to see you there
Its moving forward at a great pace and momentum isn’t slowing down.
The Hitfm initiative inspired by Kristy Hitchens is nearly upon us and The Taekwondo Central team is ready to lift you all
Master Justin has had his go on Hitfm which was aired this morning.
Miss It?
Heres the link – Click Here
Jesse & Juelz have also done a video clip mentioning both Master Justin & Kristy Hitchens
Homepage – Click Here
Timetable – Click Here
Paragon Program – Click Here
Calendar Of Upcoming Events – Click Here
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Summer Holiday Program 2019 ( SHP2019 ) – Click Here
Taekwondo Centrals Head Instructor 4th Dan Black Belt … [Read More…]
– We are very excited to announce the start of an … [Read More…]
I was both horrified and yet very proud when I was told … [Read More…]
Here’s some fun for the kids and the amazing thing is … [Read More…]
I was both horrified and yet very proud when I was told of a situation that arose for one of our black belt who used his skills to fend off 2 attackers
Kyrill Lloyd found himself in a situation that escalated very quickly. Kyrill is currently working in Townsville QLD where he is working FIFO from Bunbury.
After finding himself being targeted by some trouble makers giving him a hard time with their car,
Kyrill pulled over to hopefully deal with the situation as the driving was becoming dangerous.
Jumping from the car emerged a man holding a baseball bat and immediately went after Kyrill. With reflex action Kyrill kicked him in the face as he approached and followed that up with a well placed punch that dropped the attacker.
As fast as Kyrill could turn around the second thug thought he would avenge his mate charging to strike and was met with a back kick to the ribs stopping him in his tracks to receive a final face kick to end the situation.
–
“Timing Is Everything”
Miyamoto Musashi – 16th Century Samurai
The 2 scurried back to their feet and dove back into the car to get away, Kyrill’s injury was just a scratched knuckle.
I am horrified that this level of potential violence can accompany road rage. However I am so proud of Kyrill that his skills come through for him at a time they were needed. he certainly had developed strong techniques by the time he set out for work
Kyrill Lloyd today
Kyrills self protection is a huge club success or the passing on of effective skills, you see Kyrill as a small child was our nightmare. Kyrill and I joke about his days of staring at the roof and being busted by me on many occasions.
He is one of the only a few persons that I have asked to leave class for a day as his focus was so low at the time.
He returned the next lesson different. more focused and started to train better. As he grew as a teen and started to develop some size, the focus was paying off. He had developed a lot more power, precision and got the timing aspect correctly. (which according to the story was crucial in hitting his attackers as the were trying to hit him)
Im just so happy he is ok but I think his story also shows the fact that your child doesn’t need to be the super athlete or best co-ordinated to attain what they need.
Kyrill definitely wasn’t to start. Its not about being better than anyone. Its about gaining the necessary skill to deal with an assault.
The skills were owned and usable because he kept turning up to training from a young age.
Even me kicking him out still didn’t stop him turning up. He clocked up enough experience via training to develop usable reflexive defensive skill. Skill that worked.
90% Of Success Comes Just From Turning Up
The moves Kyrill used are all within the first 3 belt levels of our Taekwondo Syllabus but have been refined over years of practise. Simple techniques practised to refinement over years
There is no short cut to this skill. the hours need to be put in, the repetitions clocked up, the mind harnessed through training and the ability to foresee an attack to allow you extra time to respond.
This is all developed through just turning up to class. This is why we have an experience training level required to go for a belt. (Your Experience Book)
The students that really excel at our martial art don’t have a bottom experience level to make.
They train on a regular basis and even have some incorporated for any home exercise just because they understand about refinement.
–
The message said
Kyrill was very thankful that years of training had paid off and he still has it.
So thanks to you for giving him the skills to survive this time without a scratch less a little skin off his knuckles”
– Kevin Lloyd (Kyrills Father)
From all of us at the club – your most welcome
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A Basic Martial Artists Learns How To Do A Skill
An Advanced Martial Artist Learns How To Use A Skill
–
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Summer Holiday Program 2019 ( SHP2019 ) – Click Here
Its a Parents worst nightmare but not for these 2 … [Read More…]
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By Luke Crane, 1st Dan Black Belt It’s November … [Read More…]
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Here’s some fun for the kids and the amazing thing is they are actual proper safety sparring gear. Óh My Spidey Senses Are Tingling!!!
Yes, We have access to both Spiderman & Captain America gear only that includes gloves (Taekwondo gloves are compulsory in our club)
plus shin & arm guards (soon to be compulsory), kicking paddles, focus mitts & strike shields.
Chest guard are available on request and all are at great prices!!
Unfortunately if your a big kid Superhero fan like me you will miss out as the sizes are XXS to M.
Even the kicking gear is for Dragons or TKD Juniors. These are for kids only. Bit upset about that one but so be it. This Is Not The Time To Throw Your Mighty Shield In Anger Avenger
We do plan on making shin & arm guard compulsory in 2019 to lift safety so you could get a head start or load up on gear for our Centralympics in 2019.
As this gear is the real thing so it can be worn in class.
For this order we have a deadline and all complete payment must be made to complete your order.
You better move “Spidey Swift”
and can be placed via the attendance station at
with “Avenger Captain Ajana” or “The Incredible John” at class
or give me “The Amazing Spider Justin”
sms on 0407470964
email kidshield@hotmail.com
Homepage – Click Here
Timetable – Click Here
Paragon Program – Click Here
Calendar Of Upcoming Events – Click Here
We’re On FACEBOOK – Click Here
Summer Holiday Program 2019 ( SHP2019 ) – Click Here
Here’s some fun for the kids and the amazing thing is … [Read More…]
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By Luke Crane, 1st Dan Black Belt It’s November … [Read More…]
With an earlier Taekwondo Ohdokwan Black Belt grading … [Read More…]
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Having a Taekwondo Central student pass Black Belt is always something that makes myself and Head Instructor Ajana very proud.
Its part the reason we dedicate so much of our time to the growth of others but every now and then a student comes along that can be seen from observation. nothing needs to be said.
November 3rd, 2018 was another great day for the club. 4 new Black Belts and 2 who passed their 2nd Dan Black Belts.
But something happened that is a first for Taekwondo Central. “A Black Belt Best Grading Award”
Check out the full Black belt grading story on the club – Click Here
This Honour bestowed upon the best Technical & Traditional Taekwondo exponent is a little different to our style. The freestyle taekwondo we teach has less tradition and more defence.
We as a club spend less time on poomsae (Patterns) and more on developing powerful strikes and defences relevant to todays style encounters. No one is wrong or right. It just a matter on what you focus on.
Martial arts has many aspects to it. Its one of the things that make it so fascinating.
Kelly Rowe has done the amazing task of winning one of the “Best Grading Award” from a grading that consisted of some 70 people. The award has just been running a few years but its a great achievement for both Kelly & Taekwondo Central being our first time. So what made Kelly make that level above. It really is a case of the little extra that turns ordinary into extraordinary. Its a case of what you put in is what you get out.
Kelly has been a result of 2 things. A product of her own dedication & discipline. Her thirst for knowledge and growth in her martial arts is truly impressive.
Secondly Kelly has been a product of Taekwondo Centrals training, however just to be clear, extra personal time training due to her drive is the main contributor to Kelly’s success.
A regular member of the Paragon Program and a person that has put the time into learning from what all 3 of the clubs main instructors can teach, Kelly has also added her own training program at home to help her absorb her new martial arts lessons. Kelly has been a part of the Sparring Class & Demo Teams plus a Club Assistant and even recently lead her own classes.
As a true martial artist, her goal is to keep on the journey to Martial Arts Mastery. With her eyes focused on 2nd Dan Black belt next year an liftin her instructing roles within Taekwondo Central.
Kelly is also the Founder of Martialfit. A Martial Arts based exercise system that is for fitness not belts and its taken off in popularity.
With demand and reach of classes now expanding from Bunbury to Busselton, Kelly can bring what many other personal trainers cant. Yes she has the personal training qualifications but she also is a Black Belt.
She really does put her all into her training. I am of the belief that she will do the same for you. be it get in shape or get fitter to start working on belts. Martialfit bring on its own benefits. plus in the knowledge that your trainer actually takes pride in her training. Its an attitude you can grab onto and carry the rest of the day.
Contact Kelly on 0422 332 403
Email – kelly@outlot.com.au
Webpage – Click Here
Martialfit Facebook – Click Here
–Homepage – Click Here
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We’re On FACEBOOK – Click Here
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Why I Love Martial Arts and Why all Women Should As … [Read More…
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How Lucky we have been to be invited to teach our Counterstrike Self Defence System to the Students of Edith Cowan University South West Campus Bunbury.
Over 4 session we covered both defence and attack strategies how to throw a person and developing enough power to break a pine board.
We’ve had a great time and have been impressed by the skills developed over a short intense course.
I would really like to thank
Melanie Buhlmann for firstly introducing us to the ECU students, teachers & admin
Kelly Rowe for your assistance each week
Head Instructor Ajana Plunkett for also helping out with a class
Madelaine House for giving us an opportunity
and THANKYOU to all who had a go with us. It was great fun and I hope you all enjoyed the empowerment Martial Arts can bring to your life.
Everyone was just amazing and very focused
Staff and students of Edith Cowan University (ECU) South West had access to a 4 week Self-Defence Program
facilitated by TKD Central (https://tkdcentral.com/). The workshops included a series of basic self-defence moves
as well as protective behaviours and tactics to deter potential conflicts and victimisation.
“I think that this workshop has been absolutely amazing, I have had so much fun as well as learnt a lot and now feel as though I would be able to defend myself if need be. I really feel that self-defence is a very important thing to learn as nursing students as we are going to be in situations in this field of work where we may require some basic knowledge. Thank you for organising this event, I am so glad that I was able to be a part of it.”
“I have enjoyed having a go trying something new! It was a lovely opportunity to have a go. Justin puts people at ease. He is a natural teacher. I enjoyed the exercise. And hopefully I have learnt some moves to keep me safe if I were to be attacked! Look out!”
“I really enjoyed participating in the ECU Self-defence program 2018, it was a good experience. The reason for me attending was that I was seeking to improve my confidence, and after this session I feel that I am on my way to improving my confidence. My only regret is not signing up sooner as it was a lot of fun. Thanks so much for organising the self-defence classes for SW ECU!
“It was a fabulous event and I really enjoyed it”
“I absolutely loved it and would definitely love to attend again next year, obviously time permitting. I think it is very worthwhile to attend, as we all need to know these things. Thanks very much. I would love to attend again next year.”
“The 4 week program was so much fun to be a part of and very helpful to learn basic self-defence in the case that we ever need to use them. Despite being the shortest person there, I feel confident that I have some skills to defend myself. I would definitely participate again if it was offered again”
“Just wanted to give you some feedback on the self-defence classes that were run. Firstly thank you so much for arranging them, it is obviously something you are passionate about. I found them to be a great way for Uni students to discover ways that may assist them in the future should they be attacked.
I strongly believe though that whilst the things that are being shown are useful, self-defence is something that needs to be done regularly to become reflex in an incident. Therefore, I would love to see and attend more classes like this at Uni whether it be regular or a couple of times a year.
Martial arts is such a valuable tool not only in defence but in learning discipline and confidence. However, for a lot of students it’s not affordable so when the Uni runs things like this it is a fantastic opportunity, for people who would not otherwise be able to access self-defence lessons.”
“I really enjoyed the self-defence classes and they have had a significant and positive impact on me. I found the free on-campus self-defence classes practical and empowering. I am interested in continuing outside ECU, at this stage, probably the MartialFit classes with Kelly to increase my fitness and then I will see from there. I would definitely attend again if they were run on the SW Campus.”
“I must thank my friend. I’m not the type to join things like this I’m generally a very nervous person and honesty quite lazy in the fitness department lol ???? . She joined me up without really asking and I couldn’t be happier. After the first class I felt incredible. Total satisfaction. As you know by the last class, I was chitchatting away to everyone and feel I can walk around campus to say G’day to you all.
My mind feels better my body feels better and my confidence is up where it should be! I’m so happy I did this, met wonderful friends and it’s now something I will be continuing with my son. Thanks again for organising this program Mel and I will pop in soon for a chat ????”
“I came along to the self-defence class with my firend. I must admit that I’ve been inspired! I had a great time and appreciated what we were taught in that hour. I believe it will benefit so many people, not just so that they can have the basic skills to get away, but also for fitness. I hope you manage to get the back-up you need to continue this awesome program.”
“It was a real blast. When I went along to the first class I really had no idea what to expect or what kind of skills would be taught. I didn’t know it would turn out to be so practical and useful and doable (and DEFINITELY didn’t think we’d be breaking boards by the end of the course)!I felt really comfortable around the instructors and the other people in the classes – it wasn’t at all intimidating. It’s a great confidence booster to know I now have some defence moves in my repertoire which I can fall back on if I can’t run/talk my way out of a situation! Now that the ECU classes have finished, I want to keep going! I’m going to pop along and check out the open TKD classes. Thanks again for organising this – it’s been a huge benefit to me personally, not to mention all the other people in the classes. I’d love to see the same thing happening again at ECU in future!”
“The whole self-defence course was fun and really well worth doing. Thank you for making it possible for us to experience this on the SW Campus.”
Homepage – Click Here
Timetable – Click Here
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Calendar Of Upcoming Events – Click Here
We’re On FACEBOOK – Click Here
Join Summer Holiday Program 2019 ( SHP2019 ) – Click Here
Homepage – Click Here Timetable – Click … [Read More…]
Paragon : A model or example of profound … [Read More…]
Taekwondo Centrals Head Instructor 4th Dan Black Belt … [Read More…]
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We had a great time with our Term 3 competition. It was designed to give the kids a little test and we were really happy with the responce
A big congratulations to Bunbury Taekwondo Centrals Emily Robertson, who was the winner of the $100 Term 3 Taekwondo Central Word Find
The Competition has been the biggest to date so thank you to all who got involved
Emily Will now join the list of winners
2018 / Term 1 – Coya Brown
2018 / Term 2 – Kelly Rowe
2018 / Term 3 – Emily Robertson
Our Term 4 Competition will be announced very soon.
Homepage – Click Here
Timetable – Click Here
Paragon Program – Click Here
Calendar Of Upcoming Events – Click Here
We’re On FACEBOOK – Click Here
Summer Holiday Program 2019 ( SHP2019 ) – Click Here
Homepage – Click Here Timetable – Click … [Read More…]
Taekwondo Centrals Head Instructor 4th Dan Black Belt … [Read More…]
– – Martial Arts Inspired Fitness … [Read More…]
Bunbury Starts Sunday 7th February 2020 – 28th March 2020 (9 Lessons)
Australind Starts Sunday 9th February 2020 – 30th March 2020 (9 Lessons)
Bunbury Paragon Program Grading – 28th March 2020
Australind Paragon Program Grading – 30th March 2020
A Guaranteed More Exclusive Martial Arts Training Experience
The Paragon Program is for the students or parents who want a more personalised,
exclusive training experience of a great instructor student ratio under a Head Instructor Black Belt (Min 10 Years Experience)
Guaranteed limited class numbers further ensure a higher level in martial arts skills.
The Paragon Program is only for current Taekwondo Central Members for at least 2 Terms (6 Months)
The Paragon Program is a semi-private lesson helping students sharpen their self defence skills, accelerate
physical capability and speed up learning of our clubs skills. Its designed for a higher result
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My child has been in Paragon for 3 Terms and the difference it’s made is unquestionable. He loves it. He’s stronger, more confident and focused. It’s even improved his focus at school!
The Paragon Program offers a more personalised learning experience. It enables the student to develop their Taekwondo skills in a challenging and fast-paced environment that is tailored to their individual strength’s and needs. The small classes foster a closer relationship between the instructor and student which is an important building block and plays a pivotal role in the student’s overall growth and progress.
I couldn’t be happier with my decision to put him in Paragon.
– Leisa (Mother)
I put my Lucas into Paragon almost two years ago at a time when I felt he was starting to struggle with mastering the more advanced techniques as he progressed through the belt ranks. The closer attention he has received through Paragon since then has seen not only his skills come along in leaps and bounds, but his confidence and therefore enthusiasm for his training generally. He is now well equipped to begin the final stage of preparation for attempting his Black Belt grading at the end of the year. Absolutely worth the investment.
– Kristy (Mother & TKD Student)
I have been in the Paragon Program for two years. I prefer Paragon over regular classes because I get more one-on-one time with the instructor. Since I have been in the program I have seen my flexibility, technique and general skill improve hugely. It has helped me get through two black belt gradings as I have more time with Justin to refine everything. I am thoroughly enjoying the Paragon Program and will definitely continue throughout the year.
-Tahlia (Black Belt & Paragon Student))
The freedom to go to any or all classes and have the opportunity to have multiple weekly training partners on top of the semi private (paragon) classes on the Friday is priceless
– Meredith (Mother)
Taking Paragon classes has really lifted my confidence and technique. Having a smaller class means I can get more intense and personalised training. I can fine tune parts of my technique which can be overlooked in a large group simply due to the class numbers.
– Michael (Paragon Student)
For me, Speaking from the perspective of an adult participant, the main reasons for my preference of paragon classes is the lack of distraction (my personality suits small group rather than large class environments), the focus on skill in delivery and attention to detail, with an approach that emphasises fun game-play and flexibility over ticking boxes. That’s what I enjoy most.
It’s the opportunity to know what you are doing, not just getting an idea of what you’re doing.
-Rebecca (Paragon Student)
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Only 6 Members Per Class Allowed
– Bookings Essential
Green – Indicates A Confirmed Returning
Black – Unconfirmed Returning
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South West Sports Centre – Bunbury
Fridays
3.45pm – 4.20pm.
Little/Super Dragons (5 – 8 years)
———————–
South West Sports Centre – Bunbury
Fridays
4.30pm – 5.30pm.
Taekwondo (Mixed Age. 9 years – Adult)
1 Place Left
Madison Riches
Dylan Scott
Charlie Wallrodt
Aleysha Waters
Alecia Mackay
———————–
South West Sports Centre – Bunbury
Fridays
5.30pm – 6.30pm.
Taekwondo (Mixed Age. 9 years – Adult)
Booked Out
Jason Taylor
Luke Crane
Kian Stapelton
Geof Bransen
Dimitrios Dimitriadis Pierce
Melina Dimitriadou-Pierce
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South West Sports Centre – Bunbury
Fridays
6.30pm – 7.30pm.
Taekwondo (Mixed Age. 9 years – Adult)
Booked Out
Lachlan Tuene
Tahlia Gowland
Christopher Charry
Shonna Charry
Lyn Behrens
Deanna Gowland
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Eaton Softball Pavilion – Eaton
Sundays
4.00pm – 5.00pm.
Taekwondo (Mixed Age. 9 years – Adult)
2 Places Remain
Jordan Gangur
Annika Best
Harry Nortier
Johnathan Twigger
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Eaton Softball Pavillion – Eaton
Sundays
5.00pm – 6.00pm.
Taekwondo (Mixed Age. 9 years – Adult)
Booked Out
Rebecca Collis
Trinity Best
Mel Buhlmann
Rebecca Buhlmann
Nohea Liedermoy
Kai Liedermoy
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– Bookings & Payments Are On A Term Basis (Approx. 8-11 weeks)
– All Instruction By a Black Belt with Min 10 years experience
– Closer Attention To Detail
– Train Alongside Other Focused Students
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Ph. 0407470964 (Sms preferred)
kidshield@hotmail.com
Or Use Comment Box Below
Homepage – Click Here
Timetable – Click Here
Paragon Program – Click Here
Calendar Of Upcoming Events – Click Here
We’re On FACEBOOK – Click Here
Homepage – Click Here Timetable – Click Here Paragon … [Read More…]
– For Term 4 All Classes Start From Monday … [Read More…]
WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT The South Wests Longest Running … [Read More…]
Taekwondo Centrals Head Instructor 4th Dan Black Belt … [Read More…]
Taekwondo Central Head Instructor Ajana Plunkett has been at the forefront of increasing the knowledge of women on their own self protection but also understanding the hidden power within. Front starting her own Women’s Classes to doing talks on empowering, the 20 year old is having a major direct influence on others stepping up and not settling for less than they deserve.
Taekwondo Centrals Head Instructor 4th Dan Black Belt … [Read More…]
On this occasion we would like to thank the Welcoming Women Group of Bunbury for having Ajana as one of the guest speakers surprising the ladies with an empowering board break at the end. The faces say it all. If your preference is training with other women, please click to link above. You may become the next to travel the amazing journey of self discovery called achieving your black belt.
Taekwondo Central Head Instructor Ajana with her students from the women’s class who recently passed their first belt
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Homepage – Click Here
Timetable – Click Here
Paragon Program – Click Here
Calendar Of Upcoming Events – Click Here
We’re On FACEBOOK – Click Here
The importance of young women learning martial arts and … [Read More…]
Why I Love Martial Arts and Why all Women Should As … [Read More…]
By Kristy Hitchens – Brown Mouse Communications + … [Read More…]
Tahlia Gowland has been involved in Taekwondo Central … [Read More…]
![Counterstrike-2018-Bunbury-Master-Justin-Warren-www.tkdcentral.com_-e1535543431274[1]](https://tkdcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Counterstrike-2018-Bunbury-Master-Justin-Warren-www.tkdcentral.com_-e15355434312741-70x70.jpg)
– THE UNSPOKEN TEST OF MARTIAL ARTS – Master Justin … [Read More…]
What is Taekwondo to me? By Taekwondo Central … [Read More…]
A Truly Amazing Young Women –
Trinity Best has an amazing story of her personal journey of inspiration, mental determination, success and talks about how Taekwondo has been a big part of her life
We are very proud to have her as part of our leadership team and for me also the Paragon Program but I think for me personally I will never forget a message Trinity sent me in the past asking about getting involved with our Leadership Team.
In a particular section she explained to me why she would be a good choice and what she could add to the club. I was blown away. Not just at how she wrote the message but the love for Taekwondo she had put behind it. what she had sent to me was a message that only someone who had real passion for what she did could write.
Please Enjoy Trinity’s Story
Hi, my name is Trinity and I am 13 years old.
I have been training in taekwondo for almost 9 years and I am currently a Black Belt 1st Dan, going for 2nd Dan in November this year.
I still remember the day when I was five, and my mum asked me if I wanted to try this sport. We were casually walking past subway in Bunbury and my response was ‘Yeah sure.’ If only I knew how life changing that conversation would be for me.
I began with TKD Central in the little dragons program and I absolutely loved it. We lived out of town, so mum would need to finish work and then I would hassle her to drive me to Bunbury for training. I stuck with this until I had completed the entire little dragons program and progressed into the senior belt class.
At this time my family moved even further away from Bunbury which made training much less achievable. So mum enrolled me in the local taekwondo club who I trained with for about two years. This club was slightly different in structure due to being part of the International Federation opposed to World Taekwondo Federation. Both offered so much to me in my taekwondo journey.
Then came the worst year of my life…. I began to feel unwell. Nothing too extreme initially, just unwell. Except that instead of getting better, I was getting worse. My parents took me to countless of doctors’ appointments and many hospital visits, yet no one could work out what was wrong. Until I had a tell-tale nasty bright red rash that began to spread from my left foot and up my leg.
I was diagnosed with Osteomyelitis (infection in the bone) and my treatment was quickly taken over by PMH hospital. I was rushed into surgery and spent a long time in hospital recovering.
My parents were told on several occasions to prepare for the fact that I may lose my left foot and I was given a six month combination of IV and oral antibiotics.
One of the first things I asked my Paediatrician after surgery was when could I start taekwondo training again. He said “I am sorry Trinity, but no contact sport for at least 12 months.”
I was beyond devastated and grumped at everyone for at least a week before I finally understood.
This was the lowest point for me.
But I concentrated on getting better, went back to school, caught up on what I had missed, and took up swimming as soon as they gave me clearance to do so.
I would swim several times a week to both strengthen my foot, and to keep up my fitness levels.
I learnt three things from that year.
1. Sometimes things happen that are completely out of our control. You just need to do the best with what you have.
2. Even if you think there is a clear path to your goal, it doesn’t mean it’s the only path to get there.
3. I really enjoy swimming. Another two significant things happened that year.
My local taekwondo club closed down, and we moved back closer to town. This meant that I could train at the TKD central Australind class. Because my mum was still being cautious, I began in the second term. The same time as my little sister Annika started the Little Dragons program I had been raving to her about for years.
I entered back into training with a blue belt 1 stripe and my eyes firmly set on black. I achieved this goal in November 2017, but what I learnt along the way was priceless.
I believe there is so many benefits that children can use in their lives through training taekwondo.
Sometimes I think of the person I would be if I had of said no to mum on that day at the subway and had never started my TKD journey.
I realise I wouldn’t have any of the following traits that I now value so much in my life.
Confidence: The level of self-achievement and self-esteem that you feel after each of your successful belt grading’s is hard to explain. You work so hard to prefect each step and skill. So to achieve these goals is extremely rewarding and really keeps you motivated to want to achieve more. I am also someone that isn’t afraid to stand up in front of the entire school to speak. Some people say that this is a personality trait, but I think it’s because I have stood in front of a panel for grading’s since I was five. I’m ok with people judging my abilities and I learn from any mistakes. I also think this makes me more confident to just be myself.
Commitment: To commit to something and following through with it, also brings a sense of achievement. I have never struggled with committing to taekwondo and I don’t think I have ever said that I don’t want to go to training. Each time I bow into training it feels like I am coming home. And my training friends are like extended family to me. So it’s fairly easy to remain committed. I know that this isn’t unique to me, as my sister is exactly the same. We are the ones hassling our parents for more training and getting frustrated when they plan things for the weekends and we can’t go to sparring classes!
Respect: There is so much respect within our club. We respect our instructors for their skills, knowledge and time that they give to us. We respect higher belts for their experience and what they can teach us. We also respect our elders as when we line up in our ranks, if you are the same belt as someone else, the oldest stands in the higher rank and I acknowledge that they have earnt that right. Probably most importantly, we learn to respect ourselves more. To believe in our own abilities yet know that we all have different limitations. But there is also a general feeling of respect throughout the club and everyone has something they can teach you. Some of the biggest lessons I have learnt on my journey have come from younger children on lower belts. They can certainly remind you to stay on your game!
The importance of having good mentors: There is so much that we learn from each of the instructors at our club.
I take so much from the paragon classes with Master Justin. He has such a passion for this sport and for seeing his students succeed. He shows me all of the precision in each move and the reasoning behind each step in our patterns. Master Justin pushes me to be better than I was the week before and believes in my abilities. I always leave Paragon classes feeling extremely accomplished.
Head Instructor Ajana provides ongoing support for me throughout the week. She patiently guides me and ensures that I am always on task. There is so many traits that I admire from Ajana and she is a big reason in why I moved my goal post beyond black belt. I love watching Ajana with kicks and patterns. Her every movement just seems to flow so effortlessly. Her ability to run larger classes and meet the needs of so many differing levels is just inspirational.
Instructor John has spent hours helping me with my sparring. There are some areas of sparring that I find more challenging, but John is always supportive and makes classes really fun. I also help John with a junior class as part of the leadership team and I can say first hand that younger children look up to him with such admiration. He is also one of those unique people that seems to defy physics with a killer axe kick!
There is plenty of other club members that have helped me in my journey. Luke, Kelly and Travis all provide something different to our training sessions and all help us to strive for our goals. Rachel, Kian and Ashlee (all of who went from Cho Dan Bo to Black belt at the same time as me) I think I will also have a special bond with.
Goal Setting: You are forever setting goals in taekwondo. From being able to do a particular kick, to passing your coloured belt grading, to achieving your black belt.
My goal throughout taekwondo was to achieve black belt. That was until I got to red belt. Then I actually got a little worried and had to reconsider my goals. Not because I was scared to go for black belt (which I was) but because Taekwondo had been such a big part of my life for so long and I didn’t want it to end there.
So before I even got to black belt grading, I had moved my goal post out. I don’t believe I would of felt so much success in life without having this sport and I hope that my passion continues throughout the rest of my life. So I will be back in Perth in November to hopefully leave with 2nd Dan.
Other Peoples Success: Competition, taekwondo is obviously a competitive sport. But the main competition is truly within yourself and wanting to continuously improve. As much as it is so much of an achievement when you pass your grading’s, seeing your training friends succeed is almost just as rewarding.
We all know how much has gone into getting to that point. And we all try and help each other with the areas we may be struggling with. It really is a gift to see people reaching their goals. I could go on and on about why Taekwondo is so important to me. But overall I am extremely grateful to have been given the opportunity to participate in this sport and so grateful to everyone that has been part of my journey.
Trinity Best.
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