I cannot tell you how much I appreciate all of your guidance, patience and understanding that you put forth with our son.  Ever since we enrolled him in your Martial Arts Program he has had a better attitude.  It was at his kindergarten teachers recommendation that we enroll him in a sport to “release some of his energy” in a positive way.  I must tell you, it has been an awesome experience for him.  His grades via “cooperation with others” etc. went from a “3” being not so great to a “1”, a perfect score.  We owe a lot of that accomplishment to you!!!  Again thank you so much!!!

 

                                                                                                          Robin B., Belchertown

 

 

 

Excellent Value.  Professional instruction in a friendly, challenging atmosphere.  It’s clear that the Sensei Beaudoin truly enjoys teaching karate, which translates into a constructive teaching and learning environment.  If a student needs some extra help with a certain technique, or has a question, the instructor is always available to help him or her with a tip or training method.

 

 

 

I particularly appreciate the real-life applications of the self-defense techniques taught at the school.  The school continually updates its curriculum to reflect modern day improvements.  In addition he willingly passes his knowledge on to the students (i.e. there are no “secret” techniques), you are shown what it takes to succeed.

 

 

 

All of this results in a challenging workout.  The fundamentals of karate are always emphasized, but the students learn to apply the techniques in a realistic way.  I truly appreciate the Sensei Beaudoin’s many years of experience, as well as the help and enthusiasm of the senior students.

 

                                                                                                                   Jim H.,  Amherst

 

 

 

I was having trouble sitting still at school for long periods of time.  Someone suggested karate to help me with self-control.  I thought karate would be fun and helpful, Mom did too.  At first Mom thought twice a week would be to much with homework, but that has worked out fine.  I was nervous before my first class because I didn’t know if I would know anyone in class.

 

 

 

Since then I am learning to stand still better and concentrate longer.  I am learning to avoid a bad situation if possible.  I have just started to set goals for myself.  I feel like a better person, I also feel safer.

 

                                                                                                            Ryan I., Belchertown

 

 

 

I decided to try karate because I thought it would be cool.  I started a little over a year ago and I’m now at the fourth level, blue belt.  My favorite thing about karate is learning new techniques.  My parents are very proud of me and say that I’m very focused.  That makes me very happy.  My parents are also happy because I’m learning to defend myself and stay safe.  Sensei is a great teacher and a great man.

 

                                                                                                         Ethan S., Belchertown

 

 

 

When I was in first grade I had a horrible time in our school play.  I got in front of everybody and I got really nervous and embarrassed.  I did say every word that I was supposed to, but I couldn’t look at anyone.  I covered my face and cried while I said my lines.  It was terrible!

 

 

 

Then, three months later I was supposed to do a visual presentation for 4-H.  It was supposed to be in front of a lot of people, but I wouldn’t do that. I would only let the judges and our leader watch me.  I couldn’t even let my family watch.  It was too scary with everyone watching.

 

 

 

After that I started taking karate.  Sometimes I would get embarrassed in class.  But, soon I started thinking better of things.  This March for 4-H I decided to do my presentation on karate.  It was a lot better than last year!  Everyone watched me.  I explained the history of karate, demonstrated punches, kicks and blocks.  I showed all of the belts in order.  I talked in front of everyone for almost 4 minutes.  It was still scary, but I did it!

 

 

 

Karate has made me more comfortable in front of people.  In class when we practice our sensei and parents and students from other classes watch me.  I don’t feel quite as nervous as before because I can do a good job.  Karate is fun.  It is a good way to prove to myself that I can do things in front of people.  It feels great to know that I can be brave!  Karate has really helped me to be more confident.

 

                                                                                                        Stefanie D., Belchertown

 

 

 

I wanted to be safe and able to protect myself.  I joined when I was 4 years old I am now 7 years old.  After contemplating various sports programs, we felt that the focus and structure of the program as well as the self-discipline Jake would learn.

 

 

 

Negative factors would have been using his knowledge against his peer/siblings.  The issues were resolved upon sitting in during classes and hearing the repetition of circumstances to be used, etc.

 

I have become more confident in myself.  I have learned how to avoid confrontations at school.  The self-discipline has helped me with my schoolwork and getting things done.  I have been able to reach goals I did not think I could (took part in and completed 300 kicks during kick-a-thon).

 

                                                                                               Jake L. and Mom, Belchertown