Four members of the Athabasca Wa-no Kaze Kai Karate Club were recognized last month for their black belt accomplishments as tested for in April.
Recognized at their home base in the Whispering Hills Primary School (WHPS) gymnasium, Alyssa Day achieved her second-degree black belt; Roger Morrill and John Day (Alyssa’s father) received their third-degree black belts. Burckhard Hantel also achieved his third-degree black belt but has not received it yet as he was unable to attend the recognition ceremony.
The Dec. 19 black belt presentation was facilitated by club leaders Shihan Cindy Jones and Sensai Daryl Jones.
“Getting recognized together is probably something that almost never happens, so it was special for me to recognize her and toast her accomplishments that evening,” said John of sharing the occasion with his daughter.
“It’s another step forward in their training, and it qualifies them as (having) another advancement,” said Daryl of the degrees. “Especially in the black belt ranks, it’s a significant achievement.”
“You move beyond the physical aspect of achieving your black belt, and it’s becoming more proficient and learning the basics you received prior to becoming a black belt to just … achieve the higher levels and understanding,” said John.
John said beyond self defence, members achieve self-confidence.
The club practises every Monday and Thursday at WHPS from September to May for children 7–12 years of age, and a month longer for members over 12.
Children between the ages of seven and nine are required to have their parents involved as well; kids nine to 12 can come on their own, and those over the age of 12 attend the adult class.
“The whole idea of the parents and kids class is that they do something together to promote family togetherness,” said Daryl.
