David

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

David loves tournaments and appreciates the opportunity he has to meet great competitors from around the nation and globe. Enjoying the energetic and upbeat nature of competitions, he too studies the cultural and historical aspects of Taekwondo, striving to have the talent, discipline, and humility of inspiring practitioners from the past. Most of all, he takes pride in his position as an instructor and role model to others, aiming to influence other students like his mentors have done for him.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

David is highly inspired by his instructor, Grand Master Robert Zang, through his positive and persevering work ethic, amidst a tough work schedule. He has motivated David to pursue his role in teaching students at the school and to partake in community and global outreach (Kenya Project) through his dedication to the Provident Program for dyslexic students. His guidance has taught David that it's not about winning, but about the journey to becoming balanced and the best you can be.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

We were especially proud of David during his Master's (4th Degree) Black Belt test. It was the culmination of years of dedication to TKD that required pushing himself to his physical and mental limits. He completed 24 patterns, each with maximum intensity, a 7-board power break, 4 technical breaks, a weapons skit, and finished by sparring 4 opponents in succession for 6 min. We were proudest at the end, totally spent on the mat, when he had met his goal, giving everything that he had.