UNC-Asheville CYR Martial Arts Club

By Matthew Mitchell

Do Sa Nim,

Last night we ended our Spring 2009 Semester of the Chayon-Ryu Student Club at UNC-Asheville with a wonderful rank test. My dad, Master Mitchell, and Jerome Heggins came up to help out and also talk with the students. It was really rewarding to see my Dad lead the students through the basic movements that they had learned so well this semester. The spirit was high and continued throughout their forms, self defense, sparring, practical's, and breaking activities. This art never ceases to amaze me, as it constantly is touching everyone from new white belts to black belts who have been in the system for nearly twenty years. Students were coming to me last night, thanking me for a great semester and letting me know the sense of accomplishment they felt. I was extremely proud of them, Do Sa Nim, because I knew that I was passing down the art that my father taught me, and my father had passed down the art that you taught him. Our aim is to keep Chayon-Ryu pure, just as you teach it in the World Headquarters. By keeping CYR pure, both student and teacher can consistently grow from one another. This constant cycle is such a beautiful aspect of Chayon-Ryu.

Master Mitchell was a huge help last night, along with Mr. Heggins. My Dad is a true example of the benefits of lifelong Chayon-Ryu way. He has shown me the benefits, first hand, of the strength that Chayon-Ru gives, and the focus needed to defeat one's enemy. Though this is taught to white belt students, it is clear that it is an endeavor that goes much further than beginner technique.

This spring was a wonderful semester, as CYR is now in the mountains of North Carolina. I'm looking forward to seeing you in a couple weeks, hopefully the flowers will be in bloom on the parkway!

Respectfully, Matt Mitchell

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Kim Soo Karate of North Carolina 2008 - www.kimsookaratenc.com