Introduction

Choosing a martial arts school can be a challenging process due to the variety of styles and programs available. It’s important to ask the right questions before making a final decision about where you or your child will train. As a long-time consumer advocate in the martial arts community, my goal is to help you understand what to look for in a school.  Here are some helpful tips to guide your selection process.

Focus on Program Emphasis, Not Style

When selecting a martial arts school, the specific style of martial arts should not be your primary consideration. Instead, pay attention to what the martial arts program emphasizes. For children and families, the instruction should center on personal development rather than solely on fighting techniques. Martial arts programs can foster self-esteem, self-confidence, focus, concentration, self-discipline, physical fitness, and self-defense skills. These benefits are more important than the particular techniques used for blocks, kicks, or punches.

For adults, look for classes that blend martial arts with physical fitness training. In addition to learning self-protection techniques, the program should include components that reduce stress, increase energy, improve flexibility, strength, and endurance. The right program will help you develop skills that boost your confidence and capability in challenging situations.

Teaching Approach Matters

Consider how martial arts programs are taught. The development of self-esteem is a central aspect of martial arts, so look for instructors who value both effort and achievement. Self-esteem grows from genuine successes in activities that matter to students. Martial arts can help build self-esteem, but only if instructors acknowledge, recognize, and reward both the effort and accomplishments of their students.

Two Key Criteria for Selection

In summary, the two most important criteria for choosing a martial arts school are:

1. The emphasis on personal development.
2. An approach to teaching that focuses on building self-esteem.

Discuss these criteria with the instructor and observe a class to see what is emphasized and how it is taught.

Four Additional Considerations

1. Curriculum: Is there a structured curriculum?
2. Are there opportunities for leadership and competition?
3. Values: Does the school have a student creed, and does it align with your personal values?
4. What is the school’s reputation in the community?

For example, Taekwondo students follow the tenets of courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. They respect seniors, instructors, parents, and fellow students, pledge not to misuse their skills, support freedom and justice, and aim to build a peaceful world.

Class Considerations

1. Observe the interaction between students and instructors during class.
2. The atmosphere should be formal and professional, but also enjoyable.
3. Assess whether students appear happy and motivated.

Martial Arts Instructors

1. Review the instructors’ training and qualifications.
2. Instructors should be positive role models and able to establish rapport with students, especially children.

Final Tip

The martial arts school should be welcoming and comfortable for both students and parents. Consider the following:

• Is the facility clean?
• Does the school have a large, matted training area?
• Is there a viewing area for parents?  Are parents encouraged to relax in the viewing area and watch their children train?

These guidelines can help you make an informed decision when choosing a martial arts school.

www.waldorfmartialarts.com

Master Cavanaugh, AKA: Mr. C., is an 8th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo. He has studied Martial Arts since 1977 and has taught since 1982.

Effective Comeback Lines for Dealing with Bullies

Comebacks can be a helpful tool when dealing with mean kids, but it’s important to remember that not everyone should use them. Kids should practice comeback lines with an adult before trying them out. While comebacks won’t stop bullying entirely, they can help boost confidence, which may discourage bullies. It’s crucial to understand that a good comeback is not a return insult, and it should never be used in situations where there is a risk of escalation or violence. Always consult an adult for feedback on whether a particular comeback is appropriate for your age and situation, as some high schoolers have pointed out that certain lines might backfire and provoke further bullying. The following examples are intended to inspire you to develop responses that are suitable for you.

Guidelines for Using Comeback Lines

The effectiveness of a comeback line depends on remaining calm and avoiding the temptation to engage in name-calling or personal insults. A strong comeback is brief, direct, and leaves the bully or teaser feeling that their words did not affect you. It’s important to maintain eye contact and stay composed—showing anger signals that their tactics are working. If you ever feel threatened with physical violence, do not use a comeback; instead, remove yourself from the situation and seek out a teacher or another trusted adult.

Examples of Comeback Lines

Lessons for Life

Taekwondo, a Korean martial art, offers much more than just physical training—it provides valuable lessons for life. The term “Taekwondo” is derived from three Korean words: “Tae” meaning foot, “Kwon” meaning hand, and “Do” meaning the Way. Literally, Taekwondo translates to “The Way of the Foot and Hand.”

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, American Armed Forces were stationed in South Korea to help resist the communist efforts of North Korea against the democratic South. During their time in Korea, many U.S. GI’s learned Taekwondo from their South Korean counterparts. Upon returning to the United States, these servicemen began teaching Taekwondo to Americans.

Today, Taekwondo is practiced and taught in countries all around the world, making it the most popular and widely practiced of the Asian martial arts. It is recognized not only as an effective and scientific system of self-defense but also as an exciting way for young people to learn “Lessons for Life”. Values such as respect, discipline, patience, courage, and effort are learned through the martial art’s physical training and system of rank.

In its fullest sense, Taekwondo is a philosophy—a way of thinking and acting, a way of life that anyone can enjoy. Its highest purpose is to nurture self-confidence and self-esteem in individuals and help them realize their fullest potential, not only physically, but mentally and spiritually. Practicing Taekwondo challenges everyone to develop their personal abilities to the utmost.

The aim of Taekwondo is to strengthen individuals both physically and spiritually through rigorous training, and morally and ethically through its philosophy. As Taekwondo fosters stronger individuals, it also promotes stronger families, which in turn contribute to stronger communities and, ultimately, a more peaceful world. This is the promise of Taekwondo—the art. Everyone, regardless of age, gender, strength, or size, can benefit from the “Life Lessons” Taekwondo imparts.

Click here to schedule a free consultation and introductory class to see if our martial arts program is right for your family!  We invite you to come explore how our martial arts program can inspire your child to achieve great things.  There’s no risk, no cost, no hassles.  And we guarantee your continued satisfaction.

www.waldorfmartialarts.com Author: Senior Master Roger Cavanaugh, 8th Degree Black Belt, has studied martial arts since 1977 and has taught martial arts since 1982.

Tae Kwon Do is often misunderstood. Many people see it merely as a way to learn self-defense, or as a sport or extracurricular activity for children, something to do until another season of football or soccer begins. Some assume it is violent or heavily influenced by Eastern religions. However, after almost 50 years of studying Tae Kwon Do, I can share what it truly represents.

The Meaning and Depth of Tae Kwon Do

The literal English translation of Tae Kwon Do is “Kick-Punch-Way.” Yet, this translation does not capture the full depth of the art. Tae Kwon Do is a profound and multifaceted way of living. To fully appreciate its complexity, the translation must be broadened. Tae Kwon Do is not just about self-defense—it is a lifelong journey with many layers, each revealed over time. Its benefits extend to practitioners of all ages, unlike many sports that are only for the young. Tae Kwon Do can be practiced well into old age.

A Holistic Approach to Personal Development

More accurately, Tae Kwon Do is “a way of life that shapes the practitioner’s self-concept in its entirety; one’s physical, mental, and spiritual spheres.” Through rigorous training, practitioners work towards mastering various kicking and punching techniques, transforming their bodies in remarkable ways. This physical transformation naturally leads to extraordinary mental confidence and spiritual enlightenment.

Tradition, Philosophy, and Values

Traditionally taught, Tae Kwon Do is a holistic method of character development and personal improvement. It is deeply rooted in the philosophies and traditions of East Asia’s warrior class, such as the Samurai, embracing the “Way of Budo” or “Way of the Warrior.” These warriors valued life above all, resorting to violence only as a last option. They revered honor, courage, loyalty, respect, integrity, humility, gratitude, and service.

Modern Tae Kwon Do carries forward these core values. Contrary to film portrayals, its philosophy centers on peace, freedom, and justice. Practitioners are taught to exhaust all other options—such as walking away or talking—before using martial skills. The philosophy emphasizes honor and respect for parents, teachers, seniors, fellow students, and oneself. Protection of the younger and weaker is prioritized, and using martial skills unjustly is strictly forbidden.

The Path to Mastery

Tae Kwon Do is not an easy pursuit, and its rewards are not quickly earned. It requires years of dedication to become proficient. Like anything valuable, it demands hard work, patience, discipline, and commitment. For those who persevere, the results are immeasurable.

The Ultimate Goal

Ultimately, a true practitioner of Tae Kwon Do strives for mastery of mind, body, and spirit through lifelong, consistent training. Tae Kwon Do serves as a vehicle for building peaceful and harmonious individuals and societies—working toward a more peaceful world. Advanced practitioners pledge to “share what I have learned with others,” aiming to contribute to this ideal.

Click here to schedule a free consultation and introductory class to see if our martial arts program is right for your family!  We invite you to come explore how our martial arts program can inspire your child to achieve great things.  There’s no risk, no cost, no hassles.  And we guarantee your continued satisfaction.

www.waldorfmartialarts.com Author: Senior Master Roger Cavanaugh, 8th Degree Black Belt, has studied martial arts since 1977 and has taught martial arts since 1982.

Introduction

My Martial Arts Journey

I am now in my 70’s. My dedication to martial arts began in 1977. Throughout the years, I have trained in multiple disciplines, with a primary focus on Taekwondo, Tang Soo Do, Kung Fu, and Tai Chi. While I have not participated in hundreds of tournaments, I have earned my share of victories in the competitions I entered. However, winning or losing was never my main concern. For those who knew me during those years, they would recall that I was truly a training fanatic. My goal was not to collect trophies but to become the best martial artist I could be.

The Commitment to Excellence

I often trained for hours on my own, dedicating every effort toward improving my Taekwondo skills. My regimen included running countless miles, lifting heavy weights, performing thousands of pushups and sit-ups, and stretching for extended periods. I tried supplements and shakes, always searching for ways to become stronger. Over time, I threw tens of thousands of kicks, punches, and blocks. My routine was intense: I trained for hours each day, six days a week, always reserving Sundays as a day of rest. Through this unwavering commitment, I became a skilled martial artist and am proud of my achievements. I reached a level of expertise that reflected the time and effort I invested.

The Principle of Sacrifice

I share my story not to boast, but to illustrate what it truly takes to become an expert in any field or to achieve any goal at the highest level. The principle is straightforward: sacrifice. Achieving proficiency, excellence, or mastery in any endeavor requires spending significant time alone, away from friends, family, and social events—a departure from what many consider a “normal” life. This means dedicating countless hours to solitary practice, as well as training alongside those who are more skilled, continually pushing yourself to improve. The path to expertise often demands giving up time with loved ones and making difficult choices about how you spend your days. This is the reason why only a select few attain greatness and become true experts in their pursuits.

The Path to Mastery

If you are passionate about anything—whether it is Taekwondo, chess, computer programming, or another skill—understand that expertise will not simply be handed to you. Real progress requires extraordinary effort: working harder than you ever thought possible. This involves reading, taking classes, watching instructional videos, and practicing for countless hours. Study the work of your mentors and strive to reach their level. Train until exhaustion, and when you feel you have nothing left, keep pushing further.

The Rewards of Sacrifice

This journey is not without pain and difficulty. At times, the sacrifice will be significant. Yet, the rewards are immeasurable. Through this process, you will gain confidence, discipline, and mental strength—qualities that far outweigh the sacrifices made. The knowledge and wisdom you acquire will propel you to new heights in your personal and professional life.

The Ongoing Journey

Whatever your chosen pursuit, work harder than you thought possible, and then work even harder still. When you believe you have reached your destination, you will discover that there is always farther to go. Ultimately, the “Key to Mastery” of anything is sacrifice.

Click here to schedule a free consultation and introductory class to see if our martial arts program is right for your family!  We invite you to come explore how our martial arts program can inspire your child to achieve great things.  There’s no risk, no cost, no hassles.  And we guarantee your continued satisfaction.

www.waldorfmartialarts.com Author: Senior Master Roger Cavanaugh, 8th Degree Black Belt, has studied martial arts since 1977 and has taught martial arts since 1982.

The Value of Martial Arts for Children

From firsthand experience at my martial arts school and through observing the behavior of young people in our community, I am convinced that traditional martial arts should be a requirement for all children. While self-defense is a notable benefit, the true value lies in exposing kids to the fundamental principles of respect, discipline, focus, and confidence—qualities that are deeply embedded in the structure and practices of martial arts classes.

Building Character Through Training

Participation in martial arts instills these essential values and also imparts a profound understanding of what it means to pursue and achieve a meaningful goal. Students learn the importance of patience and perseverance, especially when facing challenges and failures. In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, these life lessons are more relevant than ever.

The Pillars: Respect, Discipline, Focus, and Confidence

Martial arts have always been grounded in the foundational principles of respect, discipline, focus, and confidence—values that were crucial to the existence of ancient warriors and their societies. The warrior’s code, known as “Bushido,” emphasized respect for authority, discipline to follow orders, focus on the mission, and the confidence to stand firm, even in the face of overwhelming odds. This “Way of the Warrior” is a powerful and enduring philosophy.

Today, these principles are adapted to serve as tools for character development in students, particularly the youth. We emphasize respect for teachers, parents, and oneself; discipline to do what is right and resist negative peer pressure; and the ability to focus both mentally and physically to accomplish tasks. Self-confidence naturally develops through physical accomplishments and improvements in skills such as speed, coordination, reaction, flexibility, and self-defense. Advancement in belt rank serves as positive reinforcement, echoing time-honored practices of the Samurai, but now tailored for today’s youth.

Lessons in Patience and Perseverance

Given the accelerated pace of modern life, it is critical for children to learn patience and perseverance. Achieving anything of true value requires sustained effort, hard work, and time. Success is often preceded by setbacks and failures, making perseverance an essential quality. Everyone encounters failure at some point; true success is determined by the ability to rise, recover, and continue striving toward the goal.

Unfortunately, many children today seem to have little patience or willingness to work diligently toward ambitious goals. “Good enough” often becomes the norm, leading to a lack of ambition and unclear futures—a cause for concern.

The Transformative Power of Martial Arts

Proper martial arts instruction can address and transform these negative attitudes. Through its structure and discipline, martial arts provide a foundation for learning what it takes to achieve significant goals, such as earning a Black Belt. It encourages students to strive for excellence, avoid settling for mediocrity, and pursue their fullest potential. While the journey is not easy, with patience, perseverance, and passion, anyone can succeed.

Martial arts training supports the mental, physical, and social growth of young people. In today’s technologically advanced society, this training is needed more than ever, especially for youth. Martial arts offer a solid moral and ethical foundation—one that may be formally present in academic curricula but comes alive in the martial arts classroom.

Conclusion: A Call for Character and Confidence

It is essential to provide our youth with a strong base of moral and ethical values, along with a means of physical fitness that continuously builds self-confidence. This foundation not only enhances individual lives but also strengthens the communities in which they live. Martial arts training, given the opportunity, can and will provide these lasting benefits.

Click here to schedule a free consultation and introductory class to see if our martial arts program is right for your family!  We invite you to come explore how our martial arts program can inspire your child to achieve great things.  There’s no risk, no cost, no hassles.  And we guarantee your continued satisfaction.

www.waldorfmartialarts.com Author: Senior Master Roger Cavanaugh, 8th Degree Black Belt, has studied martial arts since 1977 and has taught martial arts since 1982.

I am passionate about encouraging adults to return to martial arts training halls—to get them moving, feeling energized, and genuinely enjoying the experience. My goal is to see adults sweating, smiling, and looking forward to their next class. When I began practicing Taekwondo at age 21 in 1977, almost all participants were adults; it was rare to see children involved. Over the years, this trend has reversed, and now Taekwondo is commonly viewed as an activity for children to develop respect and discipline. Unfortunately, many adults seldom consider it for themselves.

Taekwondo: A Perfect Fit for Adults

Based on my almost 50 years of practice, I can confidently say Taekwondo is an excellent activity for adults of any age and gender. I often wonder why more adults aren’t training. Who wouldn’t benefit from practical, straightforward, and effective self-protection techniques? Taekwondo was originally developed as a method of self-defense and reached maturity within the fierce 29th Infantry Division of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army. This unit’s reputation for hand-to-hand combat was so strong that they were tasked with training American military personnel in Malaysia and Vietnam. The effectiveness of Taekwondo is well established.

Comprehensive Fitness Benefits

Beyond self-defense, Taekwondo offers a complete body fitness system. Regular training tones muscles, strengthens bone structure, and improves both aerobic and anaerobic capacity. Flexibility and range of motion also increase, and the activity can help lower blood pressure while exercising the heart and lungs. Age or current fitness level should not be a concern. Each individual progresses at their own pace, with guidance from instructors who prioritize safety—especially for adult students. I learned the importance of this firsthand through my own experiences.

Stress Relief and Mental Clarity

One of the unique benefits of Taekwondo is its ability to relieve stress. Training sessions allow you to channel negative energy through physical activity such as punching, kicking, yelling, and working with a heavy bag. After each workout, I feel invigorated and mentally refreshed, as if I’ve enjoyed a brief vacation. This sense of mental clarity and focus is something every adult can appreciate.

Measuring Progress: The Belt System

Taekwondo features a built-in system for tracking progress—the belt rank system. Not only does it measure improvement, but it also introduces increasingly challenging curriculum at the right time for each student. There are nine belt ranks before reaching Black Belt, which typically takes three to five years to achieve. Many people don’t realize there are nine degrees of Black Belt, with the highest being the 9th Degree Grand Master, a rank that takes a lifetime to reach. Clearly, Taekwondo was designed by adults for adults and can be practiced well into old age. The ranking system is a testament to this philosophy.

Overcoming Intimidation

Intimidation is a common barrier preventing people from trying martial arts. If visiting a martial arts school feels daunting, rest assured that most professional instructors are approachable and friendly. There’s no need to worry about sparring with advanced practitioners right away; in my school, beginners train alongside other adults and won’t face sparring until they’re ready. The welcoming environment helps students develop strong friendships and a sense of community, fostering trust and camaraderie among participants. Taekwondo creates a unique and supportive culture, much like an extended family.

The Mind-Body Connection

Taekwondo has often been called “Moving Meditation” because it engages the body, mind, and spirit. Practitioners experience a peaceful confidence that’s truly unique. This feeling can only be understood through direct experience. I hope these insights spark your curiosity and encourage you to give Taekwondo a try.

Click here to schedule a free consultation and introductory class to see if our martial arts program is right for your family!  We invite you to come explore how our martial arts program can inspire your child to achieve great things.  There’s no risk, no cost, no hassles.  And we guarantee your continued satisfaction.

www.waldorfmartialarts.com Author: Senior Master Roger Cavanaugh, 8th Degree Black Belt, has studied martial arts since 1977 and has taught martial arts since 1982.

Our Commitment to Safety

At Waldorf Martial Arts, safety is our top priority. Every instructor undergoes thorough background checks, holds certifications in CPR and First Aid, and receives specialized training to teach students of all ages—including preschoolers, school-aged children, teens, and adults. We take these measures to ensure that every student learns and trains in a secure and supportive environment.

A Comprehensive Curriculum

Our curriculum goes beyond practical self-protection techniques. Each class, we feature character development segments to help students grow not just as martial artists, but as individuals. For those interested in competing, we offer a robust competitive program. Our primary focus is on fostering confidence, character, and leadership in every student.

Classes Divided By Age and Experience!

Our classes are divided by age. We have pre-school classes for 4 to 6 year olds called the “Lil’ Dragons”. We have classes for Juniors, aged 7 to 12, and teen & adult classes for 13 year olds and up. Our classes are also divided by experience. Lil’ Dragons are divided into Beginner and Advanced level classes. Juniors are divided into Novice, Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, and Black Belt level classes. Adults who want to train with their children can attend these classes or take the Teen and Adult classes held later in the evening.

Engaging and Supportive Classes

Unlike many other martial arts schools, our classes are dynamic and engaging—never routine or monotonous. We strive to make each session interesting, fun, and entertaining. Our philosophy rejects the “survival of the fittest” approach; instead, we believe in nurturing students patiently and encouragingly. Through this supportive environment, students not only become skilled martial artists but also develop into well-rounded and successful individuals.

Integrity and Passion in Teaching

We are martial artists first and foremost—not salespeople. Our passion for martial arts is evident in both our teaching and our own continued training. We aim to build relationships with our students based on trust and integrity, serving as advisors, consultants, and confidants. We are confident that our work will have a profoundly positive impact on each student and on our wider community.

Transparent and Affordable Tuition

One of the key aspects that sets us apart is our straightforward financial policy. We charge a reasonable and affordable monthly tuition—no hidden fees, no surprise charges. Your uniform is provided free of charge, and there are no promotional rank testing fees or stripe/tip fees. Unlike other schools that may add on expenses, we do not “penny, nickel, and dime” our students. In addition, we provide free boards for “board breaking” practice once a month.

Join Us Today

We invite you to experience our academy firsthand. Call us to schedule a complimentary tour of our school, conveniently located in the heart of Waldorf at 2770 Old Washington Road, and enjoy a free introductory lesson. If you’re interested in continuing, you can take a one-month trial course—up to four classes per week!

Click here to schedule a free consultation and introductory class to see if our martial arts program is right for your family!  We invite you to come explore how our martial arts program can inspire your child to achieve great things.  There’s no risk, no cost, no hassles.  And we guarantee your continued satisfaction.

www.waldorfmartialarts.com Author: Senior Master Roger Cavanaugh, 8th Degree Black Belt, has studied martial arts since 1977 and has taught martial arts since 1982.

The Journey Begins!

My martial arts journey began in January 1977, in Louisville, Kentucky, at the University of Louisville. A professor at the university started a Taekwon-Do club on campus, and a close childhood friend encouraged me to join him and his brother in trying it out. I, in turn, persuaded another childhood friend to join us. Together, the four of us began to learn this new and intriguing art of self-defense from Dr. James Brockway, who was a 2nd Degree Black Belt at the time. Dr. Brockway was a direct student of Grand Master In Mook Kim, a recognized pioneer of Taekwon-Do and the founder of our national organization, the American Chungdokwan Taekwondo Association (ACTA).

Although I did not begin my training until the age of 21, I quickly recognized the significant role Taekwon-Do would play in my life—not just through the physical training, but through its philosophy as well. Imagine four childhood friends sitting together after an exhausting summer workout in a gym with no air conditioning. We would debate topics such as the meaning of indomitable spirit or what integrity truly encompasses, or one of the many other ethical issues and responsibilities of being a martial artist that our instructor discussed at the end of class. These discussions transformed us from young adults into lifelong practitioners and instructors of Taekwon-Do. The philosophy, the moral compass, and the core values we developed became a way of life.

The Journey Takes a Turn!

Shortly after I received my 1st Degree Black Belt from ACTA in August 1979, I was offered a position with the Federal Government in Washington, D.C., prompting a move to Maryland. With no Taekwondo schools nearby, I continued my training alone in my apartment after work. Unexpectedly, I discovered that a colleague in my branch also practiced a Japanese martial art called Shuto Kahn. He invited me to train at his dojo, which I accepted. It was there that I met my future wife, Debbie. We began training together and, after a memorable incident where I accidentally gave her a black eye, we started dating and eventually married in 1982.

After our marriage, we moved to another area in Maryland and came across a “Korean Karate” Do-Jang. On entering, we met a short, muscular Korean 7th Dan Master who persuaded us to join his school. Debbie, who had trained in Shuto Kahn since 1974, was only a brown belt, as her instructor did not award black belts to women. She was given a white belt to start anew, while I was permitted to wear my black belt but required to relearn the techniques and forms of the style, testing every three months until I could test for 1st Degree again. Meanwhile, my three childhood friends back in Kentucky had advanced to 2nd Degree and were preparing for their 3rd Degree exam.

Changing styles was a challenging and sometimes frustrating experience, but it was also rewarding. I learned many new things, including Korean commands and terminology that were not emphasized by my Taekwon-Do instructor. The training at this school was rigorous, with no philosophy discussions—just intense physical training and street-style sparring, often without any protective gear. Despite the difficulties, I gained a new level of self-confidence and skill.

Kung Fu Fighting!!

To summarize, Debbie and I both eventually earned our Midnight Blue Belts, the equivalent of a Taekwondo Black Belt. However, we soon moved again, this time to Charles County, Maryland, where we live to this day. There, we began studying Kung Fu and Tai Chi, both of which we enjoyed immensely. Yet again, we had to start over, beginning from the basics in these new disciplines.

During this period, my friends in Kentucky had achieved 3rd Degree and were preparing for their 4th Degree Junior Master Rank. I kept in close contact with them, frequently visiting and training together. Still, in their eyes, I remained a 1st Degree in Taekwondo. They would often joke about my involvement in Kung Fu, but I accepted it lightly, as I was learning techniques and Chinese weapons that were new to them. Debbie and I eventually earned our Black Sash in 1986.

Our Own School—Back to the Future!

In 1987, a friend in Maryland asked me to teach a Karate course through Charles County Parks and Recreation. At the same time, my closest friend, who had moved from Louisville to Iowa to manage Grand Master In Mook Kim’s school, encouraged me to start my own Taekwon-Do club. He offered to speak with Grand Master Kim about my starting a club in Maryland, and Mr. Kim agreed. Debbie and I resumed training in Chungdokwan Taekwon-Do and founded our own ACTA Taekwon-Do club. We both tested for our 2nd Degree in 1989—ten years after I received my 1st Degree and eight years after Debbie received hers. Despite our progress, I found myself comparing my rank to that of my childhood friends, who were now 4th Degrees and had established their own Taekwondo programs.

Debbie and I tested for our 3rd Degree Black Belts under Mr. Kim in 1991. Our club thrived, and Grand Master Kim would travel with his son, Ki Wook Kim, to conduct testings. Ki Wook Kim, an exceptional technician, soon became my mentor. I developed a close relationship with both Mr. Kim and his son, often serving as Mr. Kim’s demonstration partner at seminars in Kentucky and as Ki Wook’s partner in demonstrations at tournaments in Iowa and San Antonio. My childhood friends and I all operated successful programs in Kentucky, Alabama, Iowa, and Maryland. We were entrusted with tournament and testing responsibilities under Mr. Kim’s guidance. Life was fulfilling, but I was still only a 2nd Dan. I finally achieved my 3rd Dan in 1991, feeling as though I was catching up with my friends.

The End of the Beginning and the Start of Today!

Having worked for the federal government since 1979, I took advantage of a “buyout” program in 1994, which was designed to reduce the number of employees. I decided to leave and start a full-time school, following my passion for Taekwondo. I was 39 years old with 15 years of government service, but my heart was dedicated to martial arts. Unfortunately, Mr. Kim did not support my decision to open a full-time school, leading to a difficult parting of ways. Despite this, I continue to hold deep respect and admiration for Mr. Kim, and I wish things had turned out differently.

A red belt student from upstate New York introduced me to his Master, Les Zampino, who was also the Vice Chairman of AAU Taekwondo. I decided to affiliate our school with the AAU Taekwondo program. At the time, there was no AAU Taekwondo program in our region—Region 2, which includes the Middle Atlantic, Maryland, Potomac Valley, Virginia, and Western Pennsylvania. I applied to become the AAU Taekwondo Maryland District Director. The Maryland District program grew quickly, and I was given the opportunity to serve as the Region 2 Director. Under our leadership, Region 2 became the second largest AAU Taekwondo program, behind only Region 1, which was managed by the National Taekwondo Sports Chairman.

Eventually, I was invited to join the five-member AAU Taekwondo National Executive Committee, where I served alongside Master Zampino. We quickly formed a strong partnership, traveling the United States to build the national AAU Taekwondo program. Together, we organized the annual national championship, the Junior Olympic Taekwondo championship, attended AAU National Conventions as delegates, established AAU Taekwondo policies and competition rules, trained officials, and refereed at state, regional, and national championships. Master Zampino has been my sabum-nym ever since, promoting me through the ranks to 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and ultimately 8th Dan.

The Tortoise Caught the Hares!

Fast forward to today, and I am now the same rank as all my close childhood friends. With nearly 50 years of martial arts experience, I have come to realize that rank is not the most important aspect. What truly matters is the journey—the process that never ends. I am at peace with the path my life has taken. I have learned so much! And I continue to train and contribute as much as I can within the physical limits of my age and the injuries I have sustained along the way. I have thoroughly enjoyed—and continue to enjoy—this journey. I do what I can and am grateful to have been introduced to the world of martial arts and to the path it has set for my life.

Click here to schedule a free consultation and introductory class to see if our martial arts program is right for your family!  We invite you to come explore how our martial arts program can inspire your child to achieve great things.  There’s no risk, no cost, no hassles.  And we guarantee your continued satisfaction.

www.waldorfmartialarts.com Master Cavanaugh, AKA: Mr. C. is an 8th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo. He has studied Martial Arts since 1977 and has taught since 1982.

I know, personally, what Martial Arts has done for me.  As a young boy, I grew up in a large Southern city.  I was not very aggressive and didn’t take much interest in team sports.  But I went ahead and tried them, only to sit on the bench most of the time.  When it came to defending myself, as all youngsters were eventually forced to do in our neighborhood, I tried my best to avoid getting in such predicaments, but at times it was unavoidable.  On the outside I probably didn’t look scared, but inside I really was. 

I dealt with my fears throughout high school and college.  Then one day, a good friend of mine persuaded me to come with him to a meeting.  A professor on the University’s campus was starting a Taekwondo program and was holding an informational meeting.  My friend and I went and listened to the professor speak about what Taekwondo was and what it could do for us.  He talked about the obvious benefits; self-defense skills, weight control, muscle toning, . . . physical improvement.   But he also claimed that Taekwondo could increase one’s self-confidence and their self-esteem.  He further claimed that Taekwondo Training could lead one toward attaining greater respect for themselves and others as well as patience and, yes, better grades!  He spoke of five Tenets of Taekwondo: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit.

After listening to his claims, I knew that if Taekwondo could do half of what he said it could, I was going to at least give it a try.  So, my friend and I joined the program.  To make a long story short, the professor was not lying that day.  The program did what he professed it would do and the Tenets of Taekwondo became very influential in shaping not only our attitudes and behavior, but our destiny as well.  They became the framework for our lives and today they still play a major role in shaping what we think, and I actually had a growing sense of confidence in myself!  My self-esteem had also improved.  And my physical and athletic abilities became razor sharp. I know for a fact that Taekwondo was invaluable in shaping my future successes.  I know it can help strengthen your kids too; mentally, emotionally, spiritually, or physically. . . whatever it is they could use more of.  And yes, it can help them get better grades too.  Give it a try, like I did 50 years ago.  Personally, I wouldn’t take even a million dollars to give back everything Taekwondo has given me!         Senior Master Cavanaugh, 8^th Degree Black Belt

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www.waldorfmartialarts.com Author: Senior Master Roger Cavanaugh, 8th Degree Black Belt, has studied martial arts since 1977 and has taught martial arts since 1982.