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AFKA Spirit Letters
Thank you very much for all the nice complements about our classes. We are very happy that you like it so much. We really appreciate getting your letters, calls and comments.
Here are some excerpts from some of the many letters we receive.
Grand Master Arthur,
It is difficult to put into words what
American Freestyle Karate has done for our son! Derek was on medication since age 4...we have been to countless doctors and
counselors, read numerous books, and tried about everything in an effort to help him. The medication was not the only problem...every
year we had to deal with the bullies at school! Not only is Derek very small for his age, but he has Asperger’s Syndrome
which effects him on the social level even more. So, bullies would start targeting him, and he would not know how to handle
them. We have been very frustrated with the whole situation to say the least!
At the end of the 2006-2007 school year, my husband and I decided, “enough is enough”! We refused to
continue to give Derek medication because of the effect it was having on his growth, so we took him off completely. During
the summer, Derek mentioned he would like to try karate so I started looking into it in the internet. I thoroughly researched
the types of karate offered in the Lynchburg area, as well as facilities and the instructor’s backgrounds. We chose
the Waterlick branch of Super Kicks with Master McDowell. And that’s when everyone lived happily ever after! Well...almost!
Derek has made such significant improvements! He has been medication-free this whole school year, and has been on
the honor role every six weeks! The bullies have almost disappeared (just a couple of instances, but Derek handled them well).
His confidence level has increased! He has something to occupy his mind when is supposed to be sitting still in class. He
has something of his own that he is good at, and that he can call his own.
We love the Citizenship Program (no more nagging about putting away laundry and cleaning up dishes)! We love the
Christian atmosphere, the support shown by others in the program, and the life lessons that are taught. It is so much more
than kicks and punches...it’s a way of life...a black belt excellence way of life!
After observing for a while, my husband joined the classes. He is really enjoying the program, and Derek loves being
a few steps ahead of his dad! Thank you so much for your program! I tell just about everyone I meet!
Kristi Dolan
Gladys, VA
“My husband Ken and I are very pleased with the program and truly believe it will endeavor to be a valuable investment
in our daughter Tori’s growth and development.”
Thanks
again.
Nancy Coelho,
RI Super Kicks
Dear Master Alley,
“I wanted to say “Thanks” for all your instruction and sense of fun you show in every class. My family
is enjoying and benefiting from our training”.
Steve Gourley
Lynchburg, VA
Grand Master Arthur:
Just a note to let you know that I enjoy the e-mails you send us. The
life skills we discuss are something I carry out of the academy and into my academic classroom as well. Since the school where
I teach has a mission of educating the whole child (not just creating good students, but good people) the emphasis on life
skills is very compatible with what I do on a daily basis.
I also would like to mention how meaningful Mr. Bryant is
to my family. He is so supportive of all his students and is constantly working to improve the program and provide all of
us with new challenges and opportunities to improve. When my father came to our last graduation, he was deeply impressed with
Mr. Bryant (and with the really nice things Mr. Bryant had to say about me).
When I began taking taking karate, my
father was profoundly skeptical about what sort of people his baby girl would would be dealing with. Since then, after attending
several graduations and a tournament, he has become a real fan. Mr. Bryant's leadership has everything to do with this. he
is a wonderful embassador for AFKA, and, therefore, so are his students.
Happy first day of spring,
Sincerely,
Jennifer Hollingsworth-Austin
The De La Hunt Family
"American
Freestyle Karate has given me five years of great memories with my two sons. Karate was the only sport that I could participate
in with them, which was a nifty change after years of watching from the sidelines as a coach. My physical size and age gave
me no advantage over them in class. Instead, it
gave them opportunities to teach dad and for dad
to teach them. They say that shared struggles bond people. My sons and I will always have a special bond in the martial arts,
reinforced by great memories and a continued growth together in the sport for the remainder of our lives. Now, I’m building
those same kinds of memories with my daughters as they work towards their black belts.
The family
friendly, God-centered atmosphere at Super Kicks has made learning and fitness a pleasure.
My instructors have not only taught me how to defend myself and others, but they have enriched me as a father and as
a Christian. Where else can you kick off your work out with a group prayer? Where else can you work out with your kids, doing the same work out, in the same room? Instead of having
someone baby-sit my young daughters while I work out, I take class with them.
American
Freestyle Karate has improved my kids not only physically, but mentally as well. I have watched my youngest son (5years old
when we started) progress from crying in class due to frustration at trying to master various moves, to growing in confidence
by winning karate tournaments. The benefits have
gone beyond martial arts competition too. Both of my sons credit their martial arts training with their success in soccer
and basketball. Parents remark to me about how high the boys can jump and how well they deal with pressure. Surely those high
jumps are the result of thousands of karate kicks,
and their calm during the games is the result of facing pressure in the karate ring.
The bottom
line is that American Freestyle gives you more value for your money than simply learning martial arts. The AFKA Staff, From
Grand Master Arthur down, places equal value on each student regardless of ability. Kids that would normally sit on the bench
in team sports thrive in American Freestyle. They get equal attention from the instructors and are rewarded for their attitude
and effort. Kids that normally would never receive
any individual recognition in team sports, receive awards, medals, and plaques at graduations, packed with people. Seeing
your shy little girl beam, while having a medal hung around her neck is priceless.
For all
the reasons mentioned above, my family will continue to study American Freestyle Karate even after all our kids are black
belts. The Academy has become like a second family
for us. Grand Master Arthur, Master Alley, Master Mc Dowell, and many others in American Freestyle have become friends that
we look forward to spending time with each and every class. "
Mark De La Hunt
1st Degree Black Belt
“Another important aspect of karate in my childhood was
the life lessons we constantly went over in class. American Freestyle classes
most certainly was not about just kicking, punching, kata, and grab techniques. He taught me a lot about responsibility and
control through our seemingly short hour sessions. We all learned how important it was to take responsibility upon ourselves
and prove that we had "black belt excellence”, which still sticks with me to this day.”
I achieved the ultimate
goal of anyone involved in the martial arts: I received my black belt. I truly feel it was the single most important event
in my life. The feeling was absolutely amazing. I have never experienced such intense pride for my instructors, my school,
and myself.
As I entered high school I began to participate In other sports such as Track and Field. My discipline carried on
from training at Super Kicks to training at the track. I knew that the only way I was going to succeed in track was the same
way I succeeded in karate, “keep trying, never give up,” “ success comes in cans, not cannot". Master Perlini and Master Boler's voices echoed through my head while I sprinted towards the finish line,
and the voices helped push my relay team and I to a slot in the New England Indoor Track and Field Championships. My instructors
have taught me countless and priceless lessons that I continue to follow in all that I complete and participate in. But the
most priceless thing I received from my years in karate is the family formed with all the members of Super Kicks.
My many years in karate
have really shaped me as a person, and I am forever grateful to the martial arts, and I am forever grateful to all who have shared the experience with me. No matter what is happening in my life,
Super Kicks will always be my home away from home.
Joseph M. German
Cumberland, RI
When we originally enrolled
our children at Super Kicks Karate, we were interested in the discipline it would teach my 5 year old son. My 10 year old
daughter agreed to “try it” for a few months, but wasn’t really excited about it. However, the benefits
that both children have received over the last 18 months have surprised my husband and me.
The biggest change we have
noticed is in the improvement of their athletic ability. Before beginning karate, my daughter could barely pass the test given
during her gym class, and she was very self-conscious about her lack of athleticism. By the first part of the school year,
she was running the mile with the top students in her class, and excelling in all the other exercises and games. My son’s
balance and stamina has also improved remarkably.
Discipline is also a big
aspect of the program. In order to advance and earn their belts, the children are required to listen and obey. They are taught
how to work well with others, and they learn very quickly that they must apply themselves in order to learn the techniques and be able to do them safely. The children learn more self-control and self-discipline, and they also learn how to control their tempers
and emotions.
We have been very pleased
with the effect that American Freestyle Karate has had on both of our children.
“Before I started taking Martial Arts, I had no confidence whatsoever. I didn't believe I could do
anything. After training for two years, I've discovered that I can do anything I put my mind to..."If it is to be, then it's
up to me"...I actually believe in myself. Mr. and Mrs. Macon have helped me through this battle with my confidence, and, honestly,
I can never thank them enough. Now, I look forward to setting challenging goals and achieving them."
Stephanie Thompson
Asheboro, NC
Master Don Alley is an outstanding instructor who goes above and beyond what is expected. Always smiling, he
treats everyone with respect and professionalism and has a remarkable way with the children, providing structure and
behaving as a roll model to be emulated. He takes the time to get to know every one of his students, showing
a sincere interest in each. The classes are fun but challenging, all the while, instilling a positive
"can do" attitude with his teachings. These are just a few of his many talents in addition to his excellent martial art knowledge
and abilities which makes him so good at what he does, providing his students with all the tools required to achieve their
quest for black belt excellence!
Tony Grigsby
Lynchburg, VA
"In May 2003 my youngest daughter
Hannah came in from playing with some friend with an announcement that she had received a free 30 day pass for martial arts
training. My first thought was, well this is just the next new thing she wants to try. All her life, Hannah had participated
in all kinds of sports. She had played baseball, taken gymnastics, ridden horses, and, at that time, was bowling in an adult/junior
league. Half heartedly, we made an appointment to meet aninstructor.
We met Master Don Alley
who instantly made us feel welcomed at Super Kicks, showed us around and led us through a first class demo. After the visit
we accepted the trial membership and Hannah started to come to the beginner class. After a few classes Hannah became more
and more excited about going to class and wanted to go full time. I told Hannah that martial arts required a commitment and
that she would have to choose martial arts or bowling. I really thought she would opt for bowling as she had recently received
the most improved bowler award and was doing very well. Boy was I wrong, without hesitation Hannah said “Forget bowling,
I want to be a black belt”.
What has that decision
done for Hannah? Well, let’s see.
Most importantly, Hannah
has learned that excellence is a choice. Respect is earned and is both given as well as received. Discipline is not a word
that means consequences for wrong. Discipline means choosing correct action to avoid wrong. Hannah has chosen to pursue excellence
in school. Her grades have improved from D’s and F’s to B’s and C’s and to our delight, some A’s.
Hannah has learned to focus. Hannah displays respect for her instructors both at school as well as at Super Kicks. She had always respected her parents, but now goes out of her way
to show it. Most of all Hannah respects herself.
Hannah is becoming a person
of influence. She is proud to be a martial artist
and tells anyone who will listen. Some of her favorite one liners are “If it is to be, it’s up to me!” and
“The goals we set, are the goals we get”. Hannah’s number one goal is to be a black belt by August 2004.
The enthusiasm Hannah has for her training at Super
Kicks Leadership Academy is contagious. Six weeks after she joined, her Mom and Dad joined too. We are a Super Kicks Family.
Many thanks to Master Don
Alley, Master Hugh Mc Dowell and many others in our extended American Freestyle Family for making our journey through life a pleasant one."
Michael Lloyd
Dear Master Arthur,
“Thank you so much! Your program & Master McDowell have been a
great success with our son & we are very thankful to you”.
Tara Robinson
"Even though
I hold a position of management where I work I seldom gave my role as a leader much thought. But since I have been part of
American Freestyle Karate that has changed. I now find myself working and asking myself if what I am doing is really my very best or can I challenge myself to do even better. I also
relate to my coworkers differently. I now try to “inspire” them to do their best as well. I want to be the best
example that I can.
American Freestyle Karate has also meant a great deal to me during the last year and a half for more important reasons.
While trying to weather life’s storms I found a place of refuge. Each kick, each punch, each kiai helps me get focused
and renews my ability to face anything. What can
I say, “Thank you sir, may I have some more please!”
American Freestyle is about more than Karate. It is about becoming more than you thought you could be. I wish that
everyone could have this kind of training. I am grateful for Godly instructors, who care for me as an individual as well as
a student. The greatest pursuit in life is to have an intimate relationship with God. Next, would be getting a Black Belt. KIAI!"
Pamela
Gross
Lynchburg,
VA
The Shockeys
Our son
Jarred, is and always has been an outstanding child. However, after becoming involved in American Freestyle Karate, he has
exceeded our greatest expectations. He has become more centered and focused. There has been a significant change in Jarred's
physical appearance and endurance since beginning lessons. We have also noticed a change in his study habits and his desire
to excel academically. He takes great pride in accomplishing the goals that he has set for himself. He is becoming an independent,
confident young man.
Jarred
has received several awards, Most Dedicated and Outstanding Citizenship, both awarded during the American Freestyle Karate Association Hall of Fame Banquet held in November2003. He has
been taking lessons for approximately five months now and has advanced to green belt.
He has received these awards and made tremendous progress because of his desire to attain his goals and because of
the capable hands of his instructor, Mr. Patrick Macon. The students and the instructor are like a close knit family.
Jarred
has enjoyed his involvement in American Freestyle, thus giving us enjoyment. The sacrifices made have far been outweighed
by Jarred’s achievements. We have no doubt that Jarred will succeed in his every attempt in life. The lessons he has
learned so far and will continue to learn in American Freestyle Karate will only give him additional tools for a lifetime of success. We are very proud of Jarred and his accomplishments
and would like to thank Mr. Macon for providing
us all with this great source of pride.
Grand Master Arthur,
"My children and I do appreciate
the commitment to excellence that you and your instructors instill into every aspect of AFKA. Prior to moving to Lynchburg, we studied Tang Soo Do in New Jersey. We had two excellent instructors, and were very honored to study under them. After we moved, we
looked at a number of schools in the Lynchburg area, because Martial Arts had
become such an important part of our lives. I was hoping to find a nice school
for my children and I to train, but did not expect to find a school that excelled
in every area, training, enthusiasm, attitude, and a place we could call "home"
as we had in New Jersey. Words can not express how pleased and grateful we are at the five months we have studied with Master
Alley and his staff at your Wyndhurst school . The overall experience has met and
exceeded the expectations we were hoping to find.
A good Karate school was one of the top priorities we had
hoped to find after moving to Virginia, I am so pleased to say we
found that we have found a "great " one .
Thank you so
much from the
Lutz family."
Grand Master Arthur,
"Kee-ya!" This is the sound heard throughout our household. Our youngest daughter,
3 1/2 years old, yells, "Horse," and positions herself into the 'horse stance,' while our oldest daughter, 9 years old,
positions herself and yells, "elbow sequence!" And, no, Dad and Mom are not siting on the couch watching. We are right
behind them yelling the steps for the 'elbow sequence'.
When joining Super Kicks a few months ago, we were optimistic that our children
would become more confidant, self-assured, disciplined, and responsible. As a parent, you want the best for your children
by teaching and encouraging positive leadership skills, so they grow into respectable and admirable adults. Super
Kicks fosters these goals for our family and to all students.
Our family would like to send our thanks to the cheerful, upbeat, and positive attitudes
of Master Alley and his entire staff for encouraging our family's desire for personal aspiration. The distinctive method
of teaching by Master Alley at Super Kicks provides an enjoyable and fun environment for the whole family in striving
to reach our black belt excellence.
Sincerely,
Adams Family
Super Kicks @ Wyndhurst
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