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Do You Dojo?
Finding the Right Martial Arts School for Your Child
By Tenna Perry
In 1966, a short-lived television series, The Green Hornet, gave birth to the fascination of martial arts by the American public. The show wasn't known for its wonderfully written scripts but for the character Kato who went on to become a martial arts icon. The actor's name was Bruce Lee.
Lee's life was tragically cut short on July 20, 1973 at the age of 32, but his influence in martial arts and on the lives of children is incredibly strong to this day. He is the yardstick that all other martial artists are measured against and almost any dojo (karate school) will have at least one poster of Lee.
Hollywood has continued to bring the martial arts to the public's attention in both movies and television. Producers of martial arts programs target both adults and children. Unfortunately these programs don't offer advice on searching for a child-friendly martial arts school.
Grand Master Sandy Tomaselli, 8th Dan (eighth degree black belt) of Dragon's Den Karate in Humble, Texas, has taught martial arts for 45 years. His philosophy is that if someone wants to learn the martial arts, regardless of age, sex or ethnic background, he is there to teach them.
"It isn't about the money," says Tomaselli. "If it were, I would have stopped teaching years ago. A Sensei (martial arts instructor of first degree black belt or higher) is interested in sharing his or her knowledge. A dedicated student shouldn't be held back because of money. The instructor can work with the parent/student on a sliding payment scale or even in trade. Lessons can be exchanged for the student cutting the grass, cleaning/sweeping the floors or something else."
According to Tomaselli, martial arts schools are easy to find. Simply pick up a phone book and look under "karate" or "martial arts." Finding a school, style and instructor that is right for the student is a different story.
