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On September 26th at the Best Western in Mariposa, The Mariposa Martial Arts Academy awarded new belts to students. Self-discipline was evident. There was no "messing around" and the students showed total commitment to doing their best. The instructors were strict, but very encouraging. During the breaking of a board with a foot one young boy was unable to break it, though there was no question he would keep trying. Finally, an instructor whispered something to him and he was able to break the board with his hand. The crowd cheered and the boy beamed.
The ceremony for receiving a new belt involved having the belt placed in front of each student, with instructions not to touch it. The students then removed their old belt and folded it neatly in front of the new belt. Each one then held the new belt high and put it on. A few of the little guys needed some help, but most were able to do it flawlessly. The ceremony was concluded with the Black Belt Instructors giving each student a soft karate move to the stomach.
Angie Bond and, her husband, Jason own and run the Mariposa Martial Arts Academy. Angie is the major instructor along with eight other Black Belts. They have over 100 students from the age of 2 1/2 to 79.
Angie teaches 6 classes each day Monday through Friday. Many weekends they do demonstrations at events in the county. They recently gave a program at the Children's Fair at Mariposa Park. The Academy offers a class once a week to Heartland Residents that stresses balance and coordination. They also have a Tiny Champs program for younger children.
Their literature states: "Our primary mission is to provide an environment that promotes the growth and development of our students as martial artists and as responsible and confident individuals. The basis of out curriculum is to teach children and adults valuable self-defense skills in a non-competitive, family-oriented atmosphere. We provide Mixed Martial Arts, Fitness, Karate and self-defense classes to fit anyone's schedule. At Mariposa Martial Arts Academy, we have programs specifically designed for children and adults. By incorporating the teachings of respect for self, respect for others, perseverance, and self-discipline, our students develop a strong sense of self-esteem, self-confidence as well as the value of accomplishments. Time and time again we see the positive and profound impacts martial arts training has on our students, young and old alike. We are dedicated to help each and every individual discover how martial arts training can enhance and benefit their lives."
The Academy has PNO Parents Night Out once a month. The kids are dropped off for several hours to give parents a break. They also have sleepovers where the kids bring their sleeping bags, play games and watch Karate movies. All the instructors are CPR and First-Aid trained. Some of the other programs they offer are "Bully Proof Workshop, Kids Safe Workshop, Adult Self Defense and Karate for Concentration Workshop."
The Academy also teaches life skills, courtesy, respect, self-discipline, perseverance, honesty and more. They feel that these qualities prepare children for goal setting and overcoming obstacles. "Preparing students this way empowers them with the tools for success." At the same time they will challenge them at a pace they can handle physically.
For more information: Their new web page is: www.mariposama.com Mariposa Martial Arts 5176 Hwy 49N. Suite C Mariposa, CA 95338 Angie Bond 209-742-4501 |
