March 16, 2008
"Fantastic Improvement"
– Chris Pajek
There are many reasons that one chooses to study
martial arts, and for our family it was because we felt
our son required help with focusing, respecting others
and listening. Our journey with the Kang Do Won Martial
Arts Institute began when Corey (nicknamed ‘Tiger’)
started training with Master Gary Hotchkiss in his
second week of being a kindergartner at St. Monica
Academic School. Corey just turned six. Corey's birthday
is July 27th and he should have started kindergarten the
following month after turning five, but we chose not to
send him. Although Corey was ready academically,
socially he was not. He was extremely hyper and had
trouble focusing or sitting still for any period of
time, he even ate his meals standing up. We made the
decision to hold him back and try another year of
pre-school.
When Corey turned 6 and it came time for kindergarten,
we hadn't noticed much improvement in Corey's behavior
and attentiveness. We were concerned about how school
would go. During the first week of school, we received a
flyer from the Kang Do Won II Martial Arts Institute
branch school, and what we read in that flyer made my
husband and I want to sign Corey up. We felt that
training in the martial arts would help Corey settle
down. Initially I must say, I was horrified at the first
class when Corey was reprimanded for not speaking
directly to his instructor, or the fact that he was made
to do push-ups when he did not acknowledge a command.
But these things never discouraged Corey, they only
made him want to please his instructor more. It is
amazing to me how young children learn such respect and
discipline so fast at the Kang Do Won. I quickly saw
that this is how preparation begins in the journey to
black belt. Even at the age of six, my husband and I saw
that Corey had a definite passion for martial arts.
Corey trained for six months before he tested for his
yellow belt and then everything just flew from there. At
9 1⁄2 years of age, Corey earned a 3rd gup brown belt.
Our family has made Corey’s training in the martial arts
a definite priority. Corey started to attend class three
times a week just over two years ago and attends
additional classes at the home school when our schedule
permits. Corey also plays baseball and takes skating and
swimming lessons. He has amazingly adapted to juggling
his schedule and responsibilities with his schoolwork.
What Corey looks most forward to is the American
Warrior Tournaments (occurring 6 times yearly). These
tournaments give each student a chance to show off their
hard work; and the competition motivates them to
practice more so they can do better at the next
tournament. Corey is doing well academically in school
and is determined to become a black belt. He is very
proud of his achievements. More recently, Corey became
an assistant instructor, which we never imagined he
would want to do at his age. We are amazed at how he
communicates with the younger students and how it gives
him such a sense of satisfaction helping the younger
ranks learn.
When we see him in the Kang Do Won classroom, we see a young man who is dedicated and confident. As for Corey’s conduct in the classroom at school, it's work in progress. Academically, Corey is right on target. We believe that the lessons in respect and self esteem he has learned in Lewis Tae Kwon Do have helped his teachers channel his energy into a positive direction. Corey has such confidence in himself with everything he does, and we feel strongly that the Kang Do Won deserves much of the credit for that.
February 24, 2008
“Proud to be Kang Do Won” – Art Haavisto
We enrolled in 1999 when Alex (nickname ‘Samurai’) was 5 years old and Kai (nickname ‘Sparrow’) was only 3. Alan (nickname ‘Flea’) was only a year and a half at the time, and although he didn't become a student until after he turned three, he was here on the bench any time his brothers were here. He spent so much time on the bench that I believe his training started well before he became an official student. In fact, he announced to us when he was ready to start.
Over the years I've heard many reasons for parents enrolling their children in the martial arts. Discipline - very important, but growing up with a father that is retired military, my children were no strangers to discipline. Inner strength - equally important. The simple fact is that I just wanted them to learn martial arts.
Why the Kang Do Won? Also simple. After we decided to enroll the kids in martial arts training, we checked out several schools. I found nothing really exceptional until I sat down and talked with Grand Master Lewis. I was impressed, and after nine years and the opportunity to see many other schools at competitions and demonstrations, I am still impressed. No other school compares.
I don't think my children had an auspicious start to their training. Samurai and Sparrow attended two classes a week in the beginning, and as I recall, it was six months before they tested for yellow belt. Later we added a third class, then the weekends, then joined the Demo Team, then they became assistant instructors and it was seven days a week at the Kang Do Won. It was a little different for Flea, because he was thrown into the daily schedule from the start of his training.
I could talk for hours about the lessons we've learned and the successes and growth we have experienced here, but I think I would rather focus on martial arts training from one parent's perspective. These are some of the ideas and approaches that we have used. I think they've worked well for us; maybe they will work for you.
You may have noticed that I use the term "we" allot. Although my wife and I are not students, we consider ourselves to be an integral part of our children's training. Until recently, when they were here, we were here. It gives us a chance to show that we care about what they are doing, and also lets us see what they are learning.
Show up - if you can be here, be here. Other parents remark that it is great that my kids enjoy training so much and always want to be here. The secret is that they don't always want to be here. Many times they said they wanted to stay home. I reply that it is their right not to want to come, but we're going anyhow. Over time it becomes a part of life.
Concentrate on the martial arts. Many parents want to have their children experience everything and bounce between martial arts practice, baseball, soccer, dance, and assorted other activities. I've always been of the opinion that you pick one thing and learn it well. Martial arts,
as taught at the Kang Do Won, provides physical training, and it also provides mental training and character development. We have recently branched out into other sports, but we haven't gone far from the tree. My kids are wrestling in school.
Practice, practice, practice. Master Lewis is fond of saying that you have to practice at least ten minutes a day if you want to be a black belt some day. My kids needed allot more than that. We have practiced at home, gone to class, and then practiced more when we got home from class. When the kids get bored at home, have them practice. One of the advantages of watching the classes is that you learn what they need to practice.
Pushups are good. I remember when Samurai brought in a report card with a couple of check marks for bad behavior. Grand Master Lewis assigned him pushups
every day until the next report card. I have heard others complain that that is too much for a kid to do. I, on the other hand, used to wake him up early so I could watch his pushups before I went to work. He hasn't had problems on his report card since, and he can do some pushups! A win, win situation.
I'd just like to end by saying that, after nine years here, I have no regrets. My children
have earned black belts and are receiving sound, valuable training that will aid them for the rest of their lives. We may not be a part of Kang Do Won forever, but the Kang Do Won will forever be a part of us. I am proud of that.
November
23, 2007
"A Mom's Perspective on Training" - Jolene Woodfork
The Kang Do Won is a dynamic martial arts school where
both my son Oliver and I have had the opportunity to learn and grow. The school
is an extended family that I can count on and trust to provide guidance not only
to my son, but also to me as a parent. By working together, we can help my son
achieve his potential.
Oliver became a student of the Kang Do Won in 2003; he was full of energy and lacked discipline. The instructors provide an
environment where lessons are learned and character is built. The classes have
taught him to redirect his energy so that his actions will result in a positive
outcome. He has not only learned to recite the principles, but come to
understand them and how they effect his everyday experiences. The change in his
behavior is phenomenal! As his mother, I know that these changes are a direct
result of his training at the Kang Do Won.
There is no question about it, the Kang Do Won Martial
Arts Institute has made a positive difference in both of our lives!
November 12, 2007
"More than We Expected" - Sharon Pozun
In today’s society our children are faced with many
challenges, and as a parent it is our responsibility to
provide them with the knowledge, so that they can face
these challenges and overcome any obstacle that they may
encounter.
We wanted our son to know that if he was ever in a
difficult situation that he would be able to defend
himself. In 2006 we came to the Kang Do Won with this request,
and after talking with Grand Master Lewis we realized
that he could help teach our son how to defend himself
and also provide him with the knowledge to know when and
when not to use it. As it turned out Grand Master Lewis
has provided him with more than just the knowledge of
self-defense.
In the past year we have seen Eric develop many
qualities, the most noticeable is what we call a "quiet
confidence." He has applied this to many different
aspects in his life, such as choosing what classes he
wants to take in school, knowing that his friends might
not choose those same classes. He doesn’t let his peers
influence his decision-making. He has learned how to set
goals for himself and has worked hard to achieve them.
For example, he knew from the very first time that we
saw the Demonstration Team perform, that this was
something he wanted to be a part of, and he knew that he
would have to work hard and practice to get to be a part
of the team. When he felt that he reached that point, he
talked to Master Lewis first to see about the
requirements of being on the team and if she thought he
would be able to join. With her encouraging words and
her bright smile, she told him that he would have to ask
Grand Master Lewis. I remember that day because he
wanted to talk to Grand Master Lewis by himself without
Mom coming in with him. As I sat there waiting for what
seemed like eternity, Eric finally came out of his
office with the biggest smile I have ever seen. He had
Grand Master Lewis’ approval to be a part of the
Demonstration Team.
The most important lesson Eric has learned since he
started on his path with Grand Master Lewis, is that if
you really want to do something you have to work hard at
it, and never give up your dreams.
October 20, 2007
"A New Beginning" - Jill Latkovich
Early in 2006, I began the process of
investigating martial arts training for my 10 year old son. At the time, I knew
nothing about martial arts but had heard from various sources that it may be
what I was looking for... a place for him to build self confidence and
discipline. I began calling and visiting several schools in the area. My first
visit happened to be the Kang Do Won Martial Arts Institute. We met with Grand
Master Lewis and had the opportunity to observe a class. I was impressed with my
visit but was unsure because of my lack of knowledge. I departed with the clear
intention of visiting other schools which was the advice given to me by Grand
Master Lewis at the time. With each visit to other schools it quickly became
apparent to me that if I was to enroll my son anywhere, it would be at the Kang
Do Won.
As it happened, 1 1/2 months later, he became a student at the Kang Do Won. In
this short period of time, I cannot express adequately the difference it has
made in our lives. The Kang Do Won has not been a program to send my child to.
Rather, it has been the place for "A New Beginning." This phrase was used by my
son when he described how his life is now different since becoming a student of
Grand Master Lewis.
I sit on the parent's bench and observe most of
the classes that my son attends. Through my observation I believe this school is
successful for many reasons most important being the experience of Grand Master
Lewis. His presence and continual watchful eye on all of the students as well as
the instructors seems to have created a place where students can feel
comfortable and secure in attempting things that they may have never dreamed
possible. It also offers at the same time positive support and guidance for the
students. The outstanding instructors are all trained and under the supervision
of Grand Master Lewis. The consistency, structure, order and clear expectations
of what is required of all students and their families create a safe and
challenging environment where respect, discipline, courage, honesty, leadership
and patience are developed.
The investment required of me as a parent both of
my finances and time, has produced results far beyond anything I ever expected.
Not only have I witnessed an increase in discipline and self confidence in my
son, he has gained so many of the other intangible "gifts" that money can ever
buy. I am so grateful that we are able to have this opportunity, to meet so many
really good people and to experience all that we have. I also realize that this
is a long term commitment and process of growth and we look forward to the
future with hope. My recommendation is to go and take a look for yourself. I
doubt that you will be disappointed!!!
January 7, 2007
"Training at the Kang Do Won Changed Our Lives"
I have been a Kang Do Won student
since 1997. I joined the Kang Do Won Martial Arts Institute because my husband had begun training there six months earlier and he was very enthusiastic about it. I, on the other hand, regarded his training as a middle-age crisis but figured that we could have some fun together. Yes, we have had fun -- and a lot of sweat and tears -- but training in this traditional martial arts school changed everything.
It is impossible to explain in mere words how Grand Master Richard J. Lewis (the head teacher) and the school's instructors have improved our lives. But I can tell you that I am much happier and more successful than the person who walked into the Kang Do Won a decade ago. The majority of these internal and external changes have come through training under Grand Master Lewis. I am physically, mentally, and spiritually stronger as a direct result of my training.
Much of the training involves attitude adjustment. We learn how to truly change our thought processes; this behavioral modification results in more harmonious interactions with people in our lives -- like family, friends and co-workers -- as well as teaching us to communicate clearly and directly. From the martial way perspective, we are taught to fight, quite effectively, so in the end, we do not have to.
I cannot recommend this martial arts school more highly. It improves lives in a traditional setting, which is contrary to the martial entertainment businesses that predominantly exist today. If you are looking for a true, traditional martial arts school, or striving to change your life (holistically) for the better, this school, the Kang Do Won Martial Arts Institute, can fulfill you and your family's needs.
Maureen Soeder
Professor of English,
Cleveland State University
Lakeland Community College
3rd Degree Black Belt-Senior Instructor
November 30, 2006
"Making a Choice" -
Michelle Holmes
We enrolled our 4 year old son Brian at the Kang Do Won in 2002. In 2004 our 5 year old son Michael took this big step. And now our
littlest one Sean who is three is now a part of this family. My name is Michelle
and I am also a Kang Do Won student. It has been a wonderful experience for me
and my boys. Sometimes it's very hard to make a choice on which school you want
your child to attend. But if you read the rest of this review you will find out
why the Kang Do Won is the martial arts school for you.
The first day of Lewis Tae Kwon Do was a very
intimidating experience for all my boys and I. Being that my son Brian has been
there longer, I'd like to share his experience with you. When he began his
training he was a 4 year old boy
who was very apprehensive and had lots of butterflies in his stomach. Although,
there was a lot of order and control in the disciplined and structured
surroundings, there was definitely an air of friendliness and true caring and
concern for all students. As the months progressed, my son became more at ease.
He started to overcome some of his shyness and began to believe in himself . He
was no longer fidgeting or looking aimlessly around the room. He was more
focused and able to follow directions through to completion. He had faith in
himself.
My son has now been in Lewis Tae Kwon Do for over four
years. Of course, they're all normal kids, still forgetting things and getting
embarrassed when they make a mistake. But, the apprehension is gone and the
maturity level, confidence and self-control that have evolved as a result of
Lewis Tae Kwon Do are quite apparent. They stand proud of their achievements and
are enthusiastic to take on new challenges. What more can a mom ask for.
November 24, 2006
"Heart" - Matt Bangerter
Anyone who follows any kind of sports has probably heard the
term "heart." People will talk about a football player or a boxer as having
"great heart" and talk about how he or she never quits but just keeps pushing
through difficult situations, often turning imminent defeat into victory.
There is a related saying that "heart cannot be taught," as
if one either is born with heart or is not and that is the level of heart they
are stuck with. However, that old adage is false. This school can teach you
heart.
October 30, 2006
"Training at the Kang Do Won" - John Kingston
I began studying Lewis Tae Kwon Do in 2005.
I had observed numerous classes attended by my niece and nephew. I finally
decided to accept the challenge of walking onto the training floor. In a very
short time, I began to feel stronger, not only physically, but mentally as well.
Grand Master Lewis has created an atmosphere that guides you into becoming more
aware of how you deal with everyday life, and all the stress that comes with it.
Prior to entering the training floor, we are taught to "empty the cup". This
involves tipping a silver cup just near the entrance to the floor. When doing
this we are symbolizing emptying our minds of the daily stresses of the outside
world. I have started to use this same technique as I arrive at and leave work.
While we are taught many physical techniques, the control over mental focus has
become a more important part of my training. I have a long way to go on this
journey, and welcome the company of others on this road.
October 24, 2006
"An Educational Environment for Everybody" - Nick DiTirro
I have had the exceptional fortune to be a student of Grand Master Richard Lewis
since 1994. In that time, I have experienced exceptional personal growth
and development in myself and witness these outcomes in every student who raised
to the challenges of the Kang Do Won.
One of the first lessons, taught at the Kang Do
Won, is that most of life limitations are created by our own mind. Grand Master
Lewis quickly opens the student's mind to a world of opportunities that have
previously been obscured. Grand Master Lewis and his faculty use traditional
martial arts to educate the students in personal growth, self defense,
individuality, social responsibility and life lessons too numerous to document.
While the martial arts may appear to be the curriculum, the real education is
about being a better person.
Since my time at the Kang Do Won, I have become a
Professor of Information Systems at a local college and have earned a Masters of
Business Administration, an Educational Specialist Degree and a Doctorate of
Philosophy.
If you want to only learn how to punch and kick,
you are best suited to investigate another school. However, if you want to learn
to be a better person and experience a level of personal growth and fulfillment
previously unthinkable talk with Grand Master Lewis and visit the Kang Do Won.
October 22, 2006
"Outstanding Martial Arts School" - Anthony Sacco
I became a student at the Kang
Do Won in 1989 and an instructor thereafter. In that time I have seen both children and adults
significantly improve their self confidence and physical fitness as a result of
training. I can strongly recommend it as the premier martial arts institute in
North East Ohio.
October 13, 2006
"Where 'Champions of Life' are Forged" - Robert Soeder
I have been a student of Grand Master Richard J. Lewis at the Kang
Do Won Martial Arts Institute since 1997. In that time, I have
seen an incredible number of success stories... including my own. Beginning my
martial arts training at the age of forty-two I have so far achieved the rank of
second degree black belt.
Kang Do Won is Korean for "School of Inner Strength". As a
traditional martial arts school, the primary focus is on strength of mind and
spirit - using the art of Lewis Tae Kwon Do as a vehicle for achieving this
goal. The training is not only physical, but academic as well - covering such
elements as physics, history, philosophy and biology. Requirements for
advancement to each rank include a written test as well as a demonstration of
physical skills. Grand Master Lewis takes a personal interest in each student,
monitoring and directing their growth and advancement in all these areas...
mental, spiritual, academic, and physical.
Over the years, I have personally seen:
-
dramatic improvements in students with regard to confidence, self-esteem and
discipline;
-
students improve focus and respect - which translates to success in school and
the workplace;
-
young children advance rapidly in the development of social skills and physical
dexterity;
-
children with learning disabilities actually achieve passing grades in school;
-
adults excelling in their professions well beyond their expectations;
-
many students achieve superior athletic skills.
These are not isolated experiences. Rather, they are literally day
to day occurrences. The Kang Do Won Martial Arts Institute has been a vital part
of the community for twenty two years and is truly a school where 'Champions of
Life are Forged'. If you are looking for a martial arts school, you owe it to
yourself to consider the Kang Do Won.
October 8, 2006
"Excellent, Challenging Martial Art School" - Jaime Helton
I first learned about the Kang Do Won when my
younger brother joined in 2001 when he was in second grade. He had
issues to be addressed including paying attention and getting good grades in
school. During his training, he not only became an amazing martial artist, but
he went from a B/C student to receiving high honors and even straight A's.
I was "talked into" joining the school
in 2002 when I was a sophomore in college and it was one of the best decisions
that I have made. I have really grown up during my years of training and have
achieved a lot of things that I did not even know I was capable of. Mentally and
physically, I have been pushed to do the absolute best and know that anything
less would not be accepted.
If you are not from this area, there is a second
Kang Do Won located in Garfield Heights (Kang Do Won II)
taught by one of Grand Master Lewis' students, Master Gary Hotchkiss. Master
Hotchkiss is an incredible teacher and delivers all of the same qualities to his
school that you will find at the Kang Do Won home school. Assisting him teach
there a few days a week, I have seen his students grow and develop in amazing
ways.
I would recommend the Kang Do Won to anyone that
wants to be challenged to be a better person and a great martial artist.
September 27, 2006
"A School Full of Leaders" - Christine Shippy
I am a student, teacher, and mother of three
children who are a part of the Kang Do Won family. There is no better place to
learn self-respect, self-discipline, determination, and courage in this world of
ours. We are better people in society because Grand Master Lewis has touched us
with his traditional philosophy of how to live life to its fullest and how to
find peace with ourselves and those around us. He has made us better people and
continues to be a wonderful positive influence in our lives. Our school is like
a home and the people are like family. We are very proud and thankful to be
a part of the Kang Do Won!
September 24, 2006
"Quality is More Important than Quantity" - Deborah Bridgemohan
Myself, my husband, and my two
children, a boy and a girl, are all students at the Kang Do Won. When I first
enrolled my children at the Kang Do Won in 2001 they were very shy,
timid, and quiet. After help from Grand Master Lewis and the other instructors
we were seeing immediate results.
Here at the Kang Do Won we focus more on
personal development, rather than on belts and stars. I as a mother look at our
training like a tree… let me explain. All things have an inner divine essence
and an outer marvelous function. The essence of a tree is manifested in its
wonderful blossoms and abundant foliage. The essence of trees could not be
perceived if there were no blossoms and leaves. We all have that inner divine
essence that Grand Master Lewis finds in all of his students and turns it into
self-confidence, self-respect, determination and courage. So if you are looking
for a traditional martial art school I highly recommend the Kang Do Won.
September 9, 2006
"A wonderful school for me and my children!"
I have called and visited most of the martial
arts schools within reasonable driving range in Lake County. I was looking for a
school that would not only teach me and my children how to defend ourselves, but
more importantly would improve our self-confidence and discipline, relative to
the differences in our ages. After a phone conversation with Grand Master Lewis
I was very impressed with his professionalism, knowledge, and his focus on
personal growth and character development, rather than just on punching and
kicking.
We became students and as a result, have all
become healthier, happier and safer. My children's behavior and social skills
have improved dramatically and their school work and grades have gotten better
as well. I feel better about myself than I thought I ever could. Enrolling
myself and my children at the Kang Do Won is one of the best things I have ever
done. I highly recommend this school to anyone who wants a quality martial arts
education that teaches its students how to be the best they have the potential
to be.
September 17, 2005
"An excellent, Traditional Martial Arts school" - Ken Kingston
I have watched my 2 children, a boy and a girl
who have not excelled at team sports, grow in physical ability and confidence in
Grand Master Lewis' program. All of the instructors are knowledgeable and know
how to present the material to each level of student. The class format is strict
and builds discipline, but is fun. When games are played, no one ever picks on
the slower or less skilled children. My son, who could not stand on one foot
without losing his balance, can now do a roundhouse kick above his head, and he
is having fun moving up through the ranks.
There are always enough instructors to give
personal attention, and the children are always working on something new. We
have been very happy with our decision to send our children to the Kang Do Won.