01/04/2025
Last Sunday was our second competition of the year. I just want to take a quick moment to celebrate and recognize all the kids who had a go, not just this time, but in every competition before as well!
The martial arts industry (especially for kids) focuses a lot on the qualities that define strong character:
⢠Resilience in the face of challenges
⢠Learning to handle loss with grace and a growth mindset
⢠Embracing uncertainty instead of shying away from it
⢠Confronting fears and self-doubt
But often disregards the fact that these qualities come at a steep price: pain, discomfort, and frustration. Growth and comfort are almost always mutually exclusive, and the price of one is the other.
Competition (especially combat sports) is a serious test of skill and spirit. The experience forces kids to confront a lot of risk, uncertainty, and pressure, and endure a lot of disappointment and frustration.
I cannot overstate how proud I am of all the kids who make the decision to push themselves outside of their comfort zone and step onto the competition mats.
They are supported by their teammates, coaches, and the incredible parents who make it all possible (thank you, parents!). But at the end of the day, no coach, parent, or teammate can walk onto the mat for them.
When the match begins, they compete alone, knowing they might fall short in front of everyone. And they do it anyway.
Win or lose, theyāve done what matters most: showing up when the outcome is unknown, and giving their best effort.