JUNE 2018

Hi, my name is Vassilios. I am eleven years old.
I am a firstdegree black belt. I obtained my black belt on
December 12, 2015. This is my Taekwondo Story.

What obstacles (if any) did you have to overcome to
obtain your current belt level?

"I had to overcome my shyness when I first started Taekwondo.
Also, it took me awhile to successfully complete a somersault
without Master Yoon's help."

When did you start Fair Lawn Taekwondo?

"February 10, 2011 (the day after I turned four years old.)"

Did you have prior Taekwondo experience?

"No prior experience."

What led you to start your journey with Taekwondo?

“I loved watching the movie, Kung Fu Panda. I wanted to know
how the panda executed the various moves and how he became brave.
So my Mom and Aunt went to Master Yoon to enroll me for a class.”

What have you gained from taking Taekwondo?

“I gained confidence, self-discipline, respect, bravery determination, strength through mind and body, citizenship, fairness, responsibility, trustworthiness, and a love of marital arts. I also gained friends and role models; especially one that I’ve had for seven years, Master Yoon.”

What do you like most about Taekwondo?

“I like to know in my mind and heart that I can go somewhere
where I can be myself and have fun I like that I have Master Yoon
to teach me and that I get to see him three times a week. I love kicking

and exercising and trying new things out. I LOVE playing dodge ball because it is fun and it is one of the things I have in communion with the other students. I like that as a black belt, I have honor and great responsibility that I keep in mind every day.”

How do you see Taekwondo playing an integral part in your
life as you grow older?

“I see Taekwondo being a factor of my success in life.
Taekwondo has made me physically and mentally stronger. I learned
in Taekwondo that practice makes perfect and practice, you need patience. This will be part of me as I grow. Taekwondo will always be
a part of me, wherever I go and whoever I meet.”

What would you like to be when you grow up?

“When I grow up, I want to either be an athlete, a priest, or an
aerospace engineer because there is something I love and have a
passion in each of those jobs.”

Any additional information you would like to share with us?

“I love spending time with my cousin at Taekwondo and I can’t wait
to get my second degree Black Belt.”