My name is Kelly Dias, I started my taekwondo journey in November of 2011. My son had participated in an after school program and loved both the instructors and the sport. He desperately wanted to continue. When it became clear that the class times would interfere with my gym time, I decided to take classes with him. I have consistently found classes to be both mentally and physically challenging.
Connor and I have continued to practice taekwondo because it has allowed us to spend time working out together. We attend classes together, practice together outside of class, and compete together. We have competed in school tournaments, Rocky Mountain State Games, and The U.S. Open Taekwondo Hanmadang for the past two years. Recently, we have joined the U.S. Taekwondo Centers Demonstration Team, where we hope to compete in The Hanmadang again this summer.
As a parent, I have loved watching my son learn and develop through taekwondo. He has gained strength, flexibility, and a clear knowledge of his own strength. He has also continued to develop his character through taekwondo. The instructors reward positive character traits and help reinforce parental goals. Research has shown that children benefit from having a broad range of known and trusted adults in their lives. My son certainly has flourished with the love and support of not only his parents and teachers, but his taekwondo instructors, coaches, and other taekwondo families.
For myself, I have enjoyed participating in a sport that encourages family involvement and team building. I enjoy the camaraderie with the other taekwondo families, as well as the interactions with the staff.
