For the past 3 summers the years of hard work and perseverance have culminated in the boys participating in Taekwondo Nationals. Their participation in the National Taekwondo National Championships would not have been possible without our community family. Last summer Sammie and Olu each earned Gold Medals in their age and weight division and are training very hard for this summer’s competition. This summer Jakwon will be joining them, he is 8yrs old, a high green belt and a fierce compeitator. Sammie, now 14, and has had a spectacular year as a Red Belt. After his win last year (competing against Black Belts), Sammie was named as member of the National Prep team, which prepares athletes for completion in the next Olympics scheduled to be held in Brazil in 2016--what an honor. Olu is now 9 years old and a High Blue Belt. In June, he traveled to California competing against kids from around the world.
We are asking our village to support them in their National championship endeavor, which will be held this July in Chicago. In their own words the following describes how Sammie, Olu and Jakwaun feel about the opportunity to attend Nationals and what they hope to accomplish once there.
“Tae Kwando is a sport that helps keep me strong. I want to win Gold and send a message to my competition (15-17), Showtime is coming”
Sammie Shannon
“I really love taekwondo; it teaches me how to keep my emotions good. When I go to Chicago (Nationals) I also get to meet kids from different taekwondo schools and make new friends”
Olu Dixon
"I can't wait for my first Nationals!"
Jakwaun Shannon
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Taekwondo focuses on the development of the whole child, providing not only athletic skills but character and life building skills as well. Through the mastery of the sport the boys are learning courtesy and respect, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit. We appreciate that Taekwondo also offers a strategy for addressing the interpersonal and societal challenges faced by black children. Black youth are at increased risk of incarceration and violence, participation in sports like Taekwondo for many can be a lifesaving opportunity. A benefit of acquiring taekwondo skills through classes and competition is that it increases self-confidence and self-esteem as well as providing options to dealing with the challenges and frustrations of life in a healthy and constructive manner. All while kids have fun.
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Your donations will assist in funding the travel and training expenses associated with going to the 2013 Nationals in Chicago. Supporting their involvement with Taekwondo is important because it offers so much to their healthy and successful development and beyond.
Much Love and Appreciation from KL Shannon & Family and Mayet Dalila & Family