MINDEMOYA—The Mindemoya War Memorial Community Centre was bustling on Tuesday, January 16 as registration for Manitoulin Dojang of Traditional Taekwon-Do classes began. Children and adults filled the floor as the first class got underway following some information items shared by Master Alvey, a 7th degree black belt holder who is offering the services. He will be assisted by Lisa Lanktree.
Respect is an important component of Taekwon-do, notes Master Alvey, so always show up on time. “Never be late,” he said. He is to be addressed as Master Alvey, or sir, by the students at all times. One of the first orders of business during the short class following the registration was to take the students through the formal greeting process, a bow that is held until the master bows in return and straightens up. A bow to the instructor (and all black belts) must take place upon first sight.
The Taekwon-Do Student Oath reads: “I shall observe the tenets of Taekwon-Do. I shall respect the instructor and seniors. I shall never misuse Taekwon-Do. I shall be a champion of freedom and justice. I shall build a more peaceful world.” The tenets of Taekwon-Do are: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.
If they are not students themselves, parents don’t have to stay through the class with children over six, but if a child is six and under, at least one parent must participate in the class with them.
No wet or dirty footwear is allowed. “Slippery floors lead to injuries,” cautioned Master Alvey. “If you have bare feet, make sure your nails are trimmed.”
An official, clean, Taekwon-Do uniform must be worn for every class and make sure you have removed all jewellery (rings, earrings and necklaces) as they could cause injuries.
It is important to bring a water bottle to the class (no pop or juice please) and go to the bathroom before the class starts. Water breaks will be assigned and never mind bringing enough for everybody—no chewing gum or candy is allowed in class.
Students are expected to attend two classes a week and to practice at home for at least 10 minutes a day and are never to fight outside of the school or teach others without the instructor’s permission.
“There is no use of profanity at any time,” noted Master Alvey. “Always be kind and courteous—especially outside of the school.” The number one rule, however, is that Taekwon-Do is for defence only. “Do not forget rule number one,” emphasized the master.
Master Alvey has plenty of equipment for the classes, including reusable plastic boards for the students to “break” during their instruction.
Classes will be taking place two nights a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but it is important to note that to accommodate the township schedule, the third week of the month the class will take place on Wednesday. The kids/family class starts at 6 pm, while the 13 to adult class starts at 7 pm.
First class is free for children only. Month by month the fee is $60, a three-month signup is $165, six-month is $300 and a yearly membership is $600 (the yearly membership includes a free uniform). If a family has more than one child signing up a fee reduction is available.
More information is available on the Manitoulin Dojang of Traditional Taekwon-Do Facebook page.
