Testimonials – Martial Arts Training

testimononials

Karate is not a game of points, weight classes or showy demonstrations. It is a martial art and way of life that trains a practitioner to be peaceful.

- Aaron Green

Four years ago I was so worried about my grandson Benjamin (Kang Do Won nickname… ‘Wolverine’), who at the time was 10 years old. His mother had Multiple Sclerosis and was becoming more and more ill. Because of her illness, she could not be there for Ben and provide the kind of support that mothers do for their children. So, I took on the responsibility of caring for him.

There was no place that Ben could go and play and develop friendships and social skills because there were no other kids on our street. He had many problems at home and at school, the worst of which was bullying. Ben was quiet and timid, which made him a prime target for bullies. He would become very upset after being harassed and bullied. He didn’t know how to deal with this ongoing abuse and was becoming more and more depressed. He needed more help than I was able to provide by myself. I knew of the Kang Do Won Martial Arts Institute, on E.305th Street, which was very close to our home. One day I decided to visit them and inquire about lessons. After talking with Grand Master Lewis, I knew this was the right place for Ben. I set up an appointment for him to take an introductory class. Up to this point Ben wasn’t sure that martial arts was something he wanted to do, that is until he took this first class and then he was hooked!

After starting at the Kang Do Won, everything began to change toward the positive for Ben. Not only were the lessons helping him to feel better about himself and more self-confident, but more importantly he found a valuable resource in Grand Master Lewis. When Ben got upset or had a problem or bad experience, he would talk with GML, which helped him tremendously. Ben has come so far and grown so much in personality and character that he earned 1st Degree Junior Black Belt and shortly thereafter, was awarded 2009 Kang Do Won Student of the Year.

Before Ben started training, he could barely look you in the eye and speak to you. Now he teaches and tries to help other children overcome their problems. He still encounters difficulties from time to time (as we all do), but now he faces them head on rather than hiding or running from them. The Kang Do Won is a wonderful place for all children. I encourage everyone to enroll and everyone who attends the school to continue with their training because what they learn and practice will stay with them for the rest of their lives and make them better people. How do I know this?… because the Kang Do Won saved my grandson’s life!

Gladys Lepo

What initially began as an effort to find something for our son to do during the summer, ended as one of the best things that could have happened… we enrolled him as a student at Kang Do Won, and he began his journey on the path of developing self-discipline, relationships, and inner-strength.

As the youngest child in the family, by twelve years, Jordan was a happy child, but very used to getting his way and a bit temperamental. In the two and a half years that he’s been a student here, the consistent, high expectations and focus on self-control in the classes have altered his behavior. He is working toward taking responsibility for his own actions, learning that the choices he makes in class and life lead to outcomes that can be good or bad. For an eight year-old to recognize this is crucial to his development.

The possibilities and opportunities for learning exist here due to your vision and the phenomenal instructors. Although each instructor brings his or her own individual attributes to class, the core values remain the same: a balance of discipline, high expectations, and concern for those enrolled, as students and developing members of society. The instruction goes beyond the kicks, point-sparring, and board-breaking that my sons loves, to learning how one chooses to be perceived as a lion or a lamb in a world that isn’t always friendly, especially to the “lambs”. This care shown by instructors not only forges bonds with students, but also serves as an example to students for how they should care for one another. Now, as a brown belt, my son has taken advantage of the opportunity to become an assistant instructor himself, desiring to help others the way that he has been helped himself.

In addition to the classes Jordan takes and helps instruct, he is a part of the Demonstration Team and competes in tournaments. He has experienced a Hornet’s Nest and been named Competitor of the Year for his age group. All of this has manifested itself in developing a sense of inner-strength and confidence that he didn’t have before. This confidence has spilled over into other areas of his life, including a spring concert in school where I was surprised to find him singing a solo. He is more willing to try new things and take risks, believing that if he gives something his best, the outcome will reflect that effort. He sees a black belt in his future, and I believe that in working toward that goal, he’ll achieve so much more!

I’m thankful that you’ve created this place, with these morals, values, and instructors because it has enriched our lives.

Emily Hunt

We found the Kang Do Won by luck on the Internet, trying to find a martial art school for our 3-year old son James. We thought it would be a fun experience and a chance for him to make some friends. We never expected it would change the life of our whole family.

The Kang Do Won is a special place. Grand Master Lewis and his family have created a true community composed of committed teachers, students, and families who are bound by fundamental core values. These shared values are respect for oneself and for others, that trying one’s best is the true measure of success, that learning while being challenged can be fun, and that helping others to achieve can be even more fun. James is now 5 and we enrolled our twin girls Olivia and Madeline when they turned 3. They all love it and attend 3 times a week. Classes are well structured and the instructor to student ratio is remarkable, such that students get near one-on-one instruction.

The instructors at the Kang Do Won have treated our children with love. The principles that our children learn now will guide them for a lifetime. They take their mission seriously and carry it out with an appropriate balance of firmness and kindness. The families that attend the Kang Do Won come from diverse backgrounds, but because all of us share the common belief that our family and children come first, there is common ground to form lasting friendships. Not only have our children made friends, but so have we. No matter how hard or long your day has been, when you come to Kang Do Won, you leave with a smile and realize that you are part of something special.

David P. Mason, MD & Judith Van Antwerp, MD

Our son Michael is a very strong-willed 5 year old. From the age of 3 we have struggled with his talking back, defiance, and general lack of respect. At first, we tried to correct his behavior with time outs. When that didn’t work, we tried taking away favorite toys and activities. When that didn’t work, our desperation led us to spanking. Even that had no effect. The constant power struggles and arguing left us exhausted every night and worried what he would be like once he became a teenager.

We happened to be at a church festival where Kang Do Won was performing a demonstration. My wife and I noticed that even the younger children in the school stood “at ease” without moving around or making noise. Our son was attracted to the martial arts moves and especially the breaking of boards. At the conclusion of the demonstration, Master Lewis invited anyone interested to attend a free trial period at the school. Michael was interested and we had nothing to lose. It turns out that Kang Do Won was the answer to our prayers!

When we attended our first class, we were surprised at how friendly and polite the young students were. They approached us, looked us in the eye, and introduced themselves. (This is something you don’t see often enough in kids today.) Then we noticed how the instructors taught (and expected) respect from their students… could they actually break the bad behavior without breaking the spirit?

In a few weeks we noticed a big change. Michael began to thrive on the discipline and structure taught at Kang Do Won. He wanted to make his instructors, and especially Grand Master Lewis, proud. Whenever we had respect problems at home, we brought them to Grand Master Lewis’ attention. Needless to say, Grand Master Lewis’ experience with so many children over so many years proved to be a powerful tool. Now, Michael actually asks to go almost every day and we are happy to take him as often as we can. Kang Do Won has become a second family to all of us and we are proud and grateful to have stumbled upon this incredible school.

Greg & Dawnn Danaher

I’ve been at the Kang Do Won for a long time—over 20 years. In that time I have seen people come and go. Some of them have stayed for the long haul, some stayed only for a few years or even just a few months. I believe that regardless of how long each person spent at the school, they were all better off for the time they invested.

The Kang Do Won is a unique place. Yes, this school teaches people how to punch and kick and how to defend themselves, but more importantly, it teaches them how to be the best people they can be. The Kang Do Won takes people to places they may not have reached without the help and support provided by Grand Master Lewis and his teachers. That journey is different for each and every person who walks through the door, because each person needs something different. Some need to be pushed physically, some need to be taught humility, some need discipline in their lives, some need to recognize that they have more worth than they ever realized. The school teaches all those things and so much more. Over the years I have watched so many students evolve into stronger, more confident versions of themselves—and it has been a privilege to be a part of that.

I take care to remember people as they were when they first started so that I can truly appreciate the differences along the way. It’s easy to overlook the gradual changes as they happen, but when you look back after a length of time, the growth is remarkable. You cannot help but develop those things that the school engrains – confidence, self-esteem, courage, discipline.

All of these things allow our students to do more than they ever thought they could. I think this strikes me so deeply because I feel I am a great example of the power of the Kang Do Won.

When I first started at the school I was so introverted that I couldn’t speak to people without looking at the floor and mumbling. I was timid, shy, and scared to death of what others thought. I had incredibly low self-esteem. I’ve gained so much from the school—and what I’ve gained has allowed me to find success in all aspects of my life. It is very safe to say that the Kang Do Won changed my entire world, and I am extremely grateful for all the opportunities and experiences that the school has given me, both in the martial arts and in life.

Tammy Newhouse

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. Corey had just turned six. We had chosen not to send him to kindergarten at five, because 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 were concerned about how school would go. During the first week of kindergarten, we received a flyer from Kang Do Won Martial Arts Institute, 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.

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, and 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 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.

When we see him in the Kang Do Won classroom, we see a young man who is dedicated and confident. Academically, Corey is right on target. We believe that the lessons in respect and self-esteem he has learned in Kang 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.

Chris Pajek

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.

4th Degree Master Black Belt

Professor of English,

Cleveland State University

Lakeland Community College

Tri-C Community College

Maureen Soeder
In Memorium - Passed Away Tuesday, June 16, 2015

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!!!

Jill Latkovich

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 4th Degree Master 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 Kang 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.

Robert Soeder

Grand Master Lewis and Master Judy,

At a Karate tournament today I was making sure my son Tyler’s belt ends were even, he replied, “it doesn’t matter, nobody cares.” I thought of you Grand Master Lewis and just laughed out loud to myself. I told Tyler how his brother Mike had to have his uniform perfectly pressed and his belt ends exactly even, or he would have to do push-ups. He looked around and pointed out all the uneven belts within his view. WOW, I thought, how disappointing. He performed his advanced yellow belt form with his belt perfectly even and placed 3rd in form and one-steps today. I sent a video of the tournament to Mike, who was very proud of his little brother.

I am writing this to you because I wanted to thank you for all the hard lessons you and the Kang Do Won taught Mike. About 2 years ago, Tyler (age 9 now) won 3 free months of Tae Kwon Do at the school fair. He marched up to the school owner, Master Page and told him “Thank you, but when my brother comes home from Iraq, he will be my instructor.” It brought tears to my eyes. I did not push him to join at that time. I enrolled him in the school this year, because it had an after school program with Karate classes included. He just tested for his green belt (comes after the advanced yellow) at this school. He is happy there, and we need the after school program. The kids get away with sloppy pushups (no knuckles involved here), can wear their school clothes, if they didn’t have their uniform. When the kids forgot their uniform at the Kang Do Won, you would see some moist nose prints against the mirror, not to mention sore toes. For most kids, it is just another after school sport here. Master Page is no Grand Master Lewis but he is a great teacher and has taken a special interest in Tyler. It is funny, when he spars, he has the same back kick as Mike. I am reliving my earlier years, as a karate mom. The memories I have with Mike (Godzilla) in your school are so cherished. Yes, you were so strict, (Noelle still talks about how scared she was of you), but so effective.

You probably know Mike joined the Army as an M.P. He was the only private (in his troop of 100 guys), promoted to 2nd Private at basic training. He was promoted for his ability to never give up, his ability to keep a stoic face when verbally harassed, his strength in delegating to others, taking the lead, and for going above and beyond every soldier in his troop. You had a huge part in creating such a strong leader. His emotional, hardcore strength developed from his training at the Kang Do Won. He is a totally different person, so outgoing and caring. He was promoted to West Point when his troop was sent to Afghanistan, where his best friend lost his life.

Mike is now a respected Sergeant who was presented the “Gold Sword” at West Point last year, an award that comes maybe once in a few years. He became the person you always talked about… the person many kids want to be. I credit you and Judy as the people who helped form him. For this, I thank you both. He has turned into a great person you can be proud of. I wish Tyler was in your school, but we are still in Nashville. Mark and I are fine, Noelle is in her 2nd year of nursing school, Tyler is in 4th grade and Mike has less than 1 year left in the army. I hope you are all fine.

Thank you for everything,

Laurie Duquette

Laurie Duquette

I first met Grand Master Richard J. Lewis in the 1990s when I was fresh out of the Air Force and looking, actually, for a Chinese Wushu school. I spoke with him over the phone and was immediately impressed with his philosophy and approach. I participated in an introductory class and was hooked. The lessons are about winning in life and taught through a framework of physical discipline. They are based on honor and integrity. The school is hard, but the benefits are well worth it. As my father always said, “No great opportunity ever looks like an easy task, but rather a great challenge, otherwise everybody would have them.” Going to the Kang Do Won Martial Arts Institute was one of the best things I have ever done. Ever. Grand Master Lewis taught me to live the martial way, and thank God he did.

Many years later now, I no longer attend the school. I live in Columbus, Ohio. Now, life is taking a bit of a toll. My wife has Parkinson’s Disease, and I have a degenerative neurological condition caused by brain trauma I suffered in an accident years back. I live the martial way. As one popular movie put it, I “never give up, never give in.” I get up each morning with renewed energy and the mental attitude that I am not going to be beaten by this, that I will not only survive, but overcome. I owe more to Grand Master Lewis than I will ever be able to repay. His lessons live on every day I wake up.

Jeff Nelson