Martial arts students shine in test

Outlaw Martial Arts, well into its second year led by Master Marty Kaczmarek, holds a belt test each month. Students who have achieved the requirements necessary to advance to the next higher belt rank are tested by their instructors in front of their fellow students and an audience.

Belt testing is a very important part of Tae Kwon Do. Students are tested on all aspects of their training: Poomsae, one steps, self defense, sparring and board breaking, as well as knowledge of Tae Kwon Do and Korean terminology. These students have already demonstrated to Master K that they have the knowledge and skills to advance to the next level. The test is a formal demonstration with the added pressure of being watched by an audience and in front a panel of black belts.

There is pressure, but there is also the constant encouragement and guidance from Master K. The test is conducted in a safe, nurturing environment. Belt testing is a confidence-builder. When students are promoted they receive recognition for their hard work and accomplishments.

Junior belts are tested more frequently. As students progress through the ranks, and their knowledge and skill increases, the test requirements increase and the duration between tests

increases.

The results of December's test are as follows: Testing for high blue belt were Hogan Warner and Wyatt Warner. Testing for blue belt were Heather Johnson, Eli Johnson, Shawn Kelm, Conner Bell, Zack Gulick and Brendan Sickau. Testing for high green belt was Rachel Lilley. Testing for green belt were Phylicia Landis, Blake Bell and Crista Bailey-Prentice. Testing for yellow belt were Dillon Tucker and Carson Bell.Testing for camo belt was Dylan Vantress, and testing for white/yellow belt were Zachary Venegas and Sawyer Keifer.