TAEKWONDO at its heart is a purposeful martial art that utilises punching and kicking techniques to foster strength of mind through mental armament.
For students of Koryo Taekwondo Centres throughout Victoria, studying the martial art is an opportunity for its participants to build confidence, resolve and physical prowess by being pushed out of their comfort zones to engage in bouts and competitions.
Having instructed hundreds of students across five Taekwondo centres in Victoria, head instructor of Koryo Taekwondo Centre Shepparton, Sam Rachele said, “I love seeing shy kids of three or four go onto being young individuals who can hold their heads high through Taekwondo. The art helps students to develop the courage and resilience to face life’s challenges as well as adversity.”
Bringing together 100 students from across the state, Koryo Taekwando Centre Shepparton, hosted the annual Bev Walker Kyorugi (fighting) and Poomsae (pattern) competition on Sunday, November 6.
With qualified blackbelt judges at the helm ensuring robust, safe and controlled bouts, Kyorugi and Poomsae competitors fought it out within divisions of four students, determined by age, weight and belt colour.
With students ranging from four to 50 years old, every competitor on the day went home a winner, with each division being awarded a gold, silver and two bronze medals.
In offering advice for students heading into their first bouts, Sam said, “When a student first approaches a fight, they are full of trepidation, but once they step over the line and push themselves, they are taking an enormous step; if they win, they feel like superman, but if they lose, it just makes them try harder.”
