Martial Arts Academy

Letters from Happy Parents

Matthew is learning independence, accountability for his actions, and time management skills to keep up with all the activities he is committed to, including school, music, and Taekwon-Do. The classes at “Black Belt Excellence” help to reinforce the importance of balance for individual commitments.

Michael has learned that focus and self-discipline are important skills to be used at home, school and Taekwon-Do. The reinforcement gained from “Black Belt Excellence” has made him a better student, both in class, and for homework completion. - Kristine and Claude B.

We are thankful for the positive impact that Black Belt Excellence has had on Jordan's life so far and we are thankful that the instructors truly show an interest in Jordan's total life development, at home, school and Taekwon-Do.  If Jordan should choose to pursue Taekwon-Do as a lifetime extra-curricular activity, I would be proud that he had chosen such a positive influence in his life.

Thank you, we look forward to continuing to work with you and build the values of Taekwon-Do into Jordan's life. - Scott & Keri C.

My husband and I would would like to tell you how impressed we are with your academy. All of the instructors have great attitudes, are very helpful and are exceptional role models for the children, and Jai is very comfortable with all of them. He looks forward to coming to each class and has learned a lot of fantastic things.  We are particularly impressed with the Bully Busters program and the courtesy lessons that you teach. Thank you very much. - Shikha and Anshu P.

Thank you so much for taking your time talking to me about Benjie. I really admire both of you for the time, efforts and encouragements you give to both parents and students which is so important. - O. Pomfret

We sincerely appreciate the guidance and training that you and your instructors provide. Taekwon-Do is a wonderful experience for the boys providing the opportunity to learn about self-discipline and achievement on a background of fun and friendship. We are very fortunate to be involved in such a great school! Sincerely, W. Sarsons

I have noticed drastic changes in our children's behaviour in school, at home, and the community at large.  Thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Nguyen and their splendid staff of professionals for establishing such an outstanding martial arts academy in the neighbourhood, which we're so proud to be part of.  - I. and O. Ibrahim

Dear Sir,

I have had the opportunity to meet thousands upon thousands of persons in my life, from all walks of life, from all different religions, from all different places on the planet.

Never before have I met two persons (yourself and your brother) "live what they teach," as both of you do.  As you are aware, its one thing to teach an art like Taekwon-Do, but it is all together different to actually live by these same teachings.

I have personally observed how much training, dedication, and sweat it takes to just learn the basics in Taekwon-Do. I cannot imagine how much it takes to achieve three, four and five degrees of Black Belt. This is only one factor by which you both should be highly honoured.

You both treat everyone as an equal, you treat everyone with the utmost respect, dignity, and honour. Your kind courteous and professional manner in which you conduct yourselves will ensure your continued success in your business. Your patience and confidence with which you teach is second to none. These things are indeed a rarity in this troubled world.

Perhaps most of all though, is that you are both genuine in your nature. By this I mean that when you say you have concerns or ask how everyone is doing, you both are 100% genuine. I have spent my entire life avoiding shallow persons, but you both are on the complete opposite end of the spectrum.

Both of your humble natures, does not seem to allow for you to be called "Masters".  I like to think you are both "Masters" and think that you both have rightfully earned this title in my opinion.

May I respectfully say that whoever your teachers were, they did an outstanding job with your overall development as TRUE MASTERS, as well as being the most well-rounded persons I know.

To me, Taekwon-Do is more than physical training, more than movements, more than degrees, it seems to be meant for a way of life, to live by the philosophies that are taught, and there are no greater shining examples than you and your honourable brother.

I'm also hoping that more persons write letters like this, because they might be able to give you  both assurances that the way you both teach, the way you conduct yourselves and your genuine concerns for all your students is all top notch.

Sincerely and respectfully, Brian Unwin, March 29, 2002

Mr. Nguyen is a dedicated, committed, and professional instructor teaching Taekwon-Do to students of all ages.  He is able to identify the needs of his students and assists in every way possible to ensure they are continuously motivated and receiving maximum benefits from the vigorous training programs. - Jeannie Fung

Matthew enjoys participation in Taekwon-Do for many reasons, including the development of his skills and knowledge, friendship with his fellow students, the exemplary approach to instruction, and the great spirit of the group and its participants. - B. Sutherland

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Academic Excellence

Lesley is a good student but had been struggling to push her B average in Social Studies up to an A. At the time of her yellow stripe exam, she had left the space for goal-setting blank but, at the last minute, decided to write "do better in Social Studies" on the exam form. Within a week, Lesley had a social studies test to study for. She spent several days re-keyed her notes on the computer, using colour coding for emphasis. A week later, she announced that she had received a grade of 100% on her test and had been given a classroom award for her exemplary work.  I believe that Lesley's martial arts training has helped her to articulate her goals and to focus on what it takes to achieve those goals. This is leading to results that she is very proud of. I would like to recommend her for a Student of the Week Award. I am  seeing that she is working well on her own with great focus and care and I also see that she is learning how her actions today can produce good results for her tomorrow. This shows that she is growing up and taking responsibility for herself and I am very proud of her. - V. Gierman-Converse

"My son Joshua maintained a 90% average and won 6 awards, including the Principal's Award for student leadership. Teachers over the years have always described Joshua as quiet. Lately though, he has been called quiet but very self-confident. This growth in his confidence level is due in large part to his Taekwon-Do training. From this confidence surge, he has demonstrated that even though you may not stand out in a crowd, you can still be recognized as a leader." - J. McKenna

"We are very pleased that our son Igor continues to enjoy training in your school. We are also pleased with Igor's success in school and with his working habits. He finishes his homework on time, immediately after coming from school. His behaviour in the family is exceptional." - O. Milasin

"Matthew now approaches challenging activities at school and at home in a different way. Before joining Taekwon-Do he sometimes did ‘just enough to get by’; now he applies himself more fully. His improved effort and elevated concentration result in work that is more complete and of higher quality, as evidenced by his improved marks in school." - B. Sutherland

"At school, Mitchel improved with every semester but near the end showed his greatest improvement.  I feel that Taekwon-Do has had a part in helping him be care more about his capability and accomplishments." - R. Ereaut

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Balance

"Life is what you make of it as we all have choices to make. If one decides to be a couch potato, then the benefits will be poor quality of health over time. The best position is a balance between family, health and work. Taekwon-Do is a vehicle which provide balance and is truly a way of life. My entire family is more than ever committed to and happy to participate in enjoying our journey of Black Belt Excellence. Remember the Student Oath, which gives us the guidelines on the expected behaviours in society. Thank You Mr. Phil Nguyen, all the assistant instructors and the entire class for all the good times." - D. Plante

"I am very glad to be able to manage between my studies, part-time job, and Taekwon-Do classes without over-straining myself. All three aspects are important to me and I believe they balance my life. I like training Taekwon-Do because it helps to clear my mind. When I finish training, I know I can overcome my obstacles no matter how big they are. Since I started training, I have never felt better about myself. - N. Baird

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Being Your Best

"We are very proud of Joel's accomplishments and are very excited about seeing some giant leaps of accomplishments and improvements, the results of which we have been seeing the past few weeks. I am most pleased and impressed with the change in him and how he now views Taekwon-Do as being one of his successes. He is very proud of himself. I want to thank you for working with Joel. What a difference. Both James and Joel are very motivated with their training." - C. Granger

"After seeing the expression on my son's face (one of extreme excitement) when he has the chance to come to class (Ryan 3.5 years old) I can only hope the school and team of instructors/assistants are still around when he too joins. I wish I had joined Taekwon-Do many many years ago, because of what it has done to both my family and professional life. This evening when you asked "How can you tell someone has a Black Belt?" and a student said "Whenever they do something, they always do their best!" it really summed up what Taekwon-Do has done for me." - S. St-Louis

"My son now has a real sense of pride. I feel he is working harder in everything he sets out to accomplish and he has been putting more effort in his school work. I believe that Taekwon-Do as allowed him to see beyond the hard work of things and see the reward of it.  I would like to thank all who have been there to help him; the higher belt levels who spent so much time encouraging him, he looks up to all of you. - R. Ereaut, July 2002

"We are proud to say that Shalini and Anya are continuing to perform well at school and at home. They continue to enjoy Taekwon-Do training and attend the classes with enthusiasm. We are certain that with proper guidance, encouragement, and support from educators such as you (and from us), they would continue on the right path to be the best they can be." - L.Rouette and L. Ratnayake

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Bully Busters

Zoya's awareness of bulling has improved a lot as she was not aware of bullying and self-defence before she joined Taekwon-Do classes.  We sincerely thank you for helping her with her confidence to defend herself against bullying. - Sabahat E.

Hi Mr. Nguyen,

I thought you'd like to hear about Emily's day today and what a positive influence Black Belt Excellence has had on her life. Emily came off the school bus and said,

"Mommy, great news. I made two new friends today. " I told her that was wonderful and asked their names. She said, "Grace and I can't remember the other name, but I also met three bullies" "Oh no, I replied, what happened"

"Well," said Emily, "they were doing all that Bully-stuff like pushing and trying to scratch me and my friends and so even though I really wanted to kick them or something, I knew I wasn't allowed to so it was a really good thing I knew what to do!"

I asked her what she did.

"First, I told Grace that we shouldn't fight them because that would only, 'spread the meanness', then I told them to 'Back away you are too close.' And they didn't, so I took a small step back. Then they tried to push and I said 'Back away I don't want any trouble!' but they didn't go away then I yelled "KI-AP" and "Stop!" and put my hand here... in front of his face. And then he went away!! And Grace was so happy and she thanked me."

So, thank you for giving Emily confidence in herself to know she can handle a situation like this, and also for giving her the techniques to do it well. - Patti C.

As someone who was bullied growing up, I know first hand how important having a program such as yours is in helping kids today cope with bullying. I believe if such a program were offered at the time I was dealing with bullying, it would have made a significant difference in my life.

As a parent, I do not want to see my son or anyone else's child go through the same thing I did and that is why I encourage all parents, including my clients, to place their children into martial arts. I have now made martial arts a significant part of my life and it has given me more self-confidence and guidance than anything else I have ever done. One of the most valuable things that I have learned since I began training is that you cannot control how others behave towards you, but you can control the way you react to them.

In closing, I would like to say thank you for your ongoing effort to helping those who need our help the most, our children. I hope you have continued success with your 'Bully Busters' program. - M. Valenti (November 2005)

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Focus

I am thrilled at the excellent way Jack listens to directions from the Taekwon-Do instructors and follows instructions quickly and with great focus. We are building on and reinforcing this positive behaviour at home. It makes life at home much more pleasant when the children listen and respond quickly and with respect. - Deanne D.

"Greg has shown a remarkable improvement in so many areas since he started with Taekwon-Do. His academic interest, marks, and attention to detail has been impressive." - Mr. and Mrs. MacDonald

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Friendship

I make a special effort to participate in all team builders as this is what makes life fun. The people we train with every week are all friendly, courteous and contribute to a great atmosphere. This has giving me another life outside my regular work and home life. I really enjoyed all team builders, whether in a parade or playing soccer in the rain to painting the dojang, we all laughed and had a good time being part of these events. The highlight for me was completing the CIBC 5 km Run for the Cure. This was a great gauge of how my physical health improved through Taekwon-Do training. From breathing effortlessly to taking a tumble on the cement sidewalk, rolling and continuing the run without getting hurt! Long standing friendships contribute to stable mental health and this is one vehicle which greatly contributes to this. - D. Plante

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Goal-Setting

When starting the Little Dragons program, Karl set himself an objective to work hard to graduate to Junior Achiever so that he could train with his dad. Even with friends joining the program, Karl kept focus on his goal.

Taekwon-Do has showed him that hard work will be rewarded and that goals are achievable when you set your mind to it. - C. Moffat

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Health and Fitness

"By practicing Taekwon-Do every week, Kevin's has improved his flexibility and balance.  He is also more confident in his school work and other areas of life." - Mrs. Jia

"We believe Alex has gained a better understanding of character education such as discipline and respect while improving his health and fitness levels." - Mrs. Hui

Rishi is benefiting from his Taekwon-Do training in many ways.  He has become more physically fit and is more conscious of his health. Our daughter Kavita is benefiting from her Taekwon-Do training in many ways.  We can see improvement in her level of confidence.  She has also become very flexible and enjoys the challenge of learning her Taekwon-Do moves." - A. Srivastava

"Taekwon-Do has definitely had a very positive impact on Moe's interaction with people around him.  The other big benefit is an obvious improvement as far as fitness and weight are concerned.  Thank you Black Belt Excellence, keep up the good work!" - L. Laid

"Craig is an exceptional learner and his achievements in Taekwon-Do have been an excellent source for improving his self-esteem and physical health. At his age, it is important to be aware of one's physical abilities and we are thrilled to see his achievements over the last year. His participation has developed an accelerated sense of focus that has increased his abilities at school.  It is rewarding to watch him grow and develop in a positive way. We appreciate your enthusiasm and commitment to the kids. Your spirit rubs off on the students as they absorb the positive reinforcement that you share so willingly. You are a great asset to our community." - B. Nichols

"After graduating from school and being in the workforce for two years, I decided I needed a hobby and a physical activity. A friend of mine and co-worker suggested that I try Taekwon-Do. Now, I'm enjoying it greatly. Through the training and teachings of Taekwon-Do, I realized that I only have one body and that I should maintain it in good condition. It has taught me that physical activity, nutritious food, and a healthy lifestyle are important in life." - R. Poulin

At age 39, I have been blessed with a fantastic marriage and with two wonderful children. My children being of adolescent age required more in terms of controlling their body motions and coordination than that offered by traditional sports curriculum such as soccer, basketball….

One of my colleagues suggested that Taekwon–Do would greatly benefit my children during their growing years and also would benefit me as there are no age limitation to training in Taekwon-Do. That very day I was in contact with Mr. Phil Nguyen. This was the beginning of a wonderful journey. In June of 2001, I enrolled my two children in Taekwon-Do and watched them perform from the visitor’s seats as most parents do. My interest grew with each visit as I watched the benefits unfold before my eyes. I was then on the mission to convince my wife to start with me and join the children in the quest to achieve Black Belt Excellence.

At age 40, in the fall of 2001, a health disaster struck. I contracted bacterial meningitis which put me out of commission. With more ambition than ever to nurture my health, both my wife and I started training in the new year of 2002, seven months after my children began their training as a complete family unit.

Here are the changes after one year of consistent training:

There is no doubt that consistent training has improved my quality of life from a physical standpoint. I feel more energized than I felt in the last 20 years having mostly lead a sedentary lifestyle. I must admit that is was very difficult physically for the first eight months with aches and pains as I had to lose excessive weight and tone up muscles. - D. Plante

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Indomitable Spirit

Jordan was born a fighter.  At just 2 lbs at birth and against the medical odds, and the Doctor’s reports, Jordan fought his way through a difficult early childhood. 

After 5 weeks in intensive care, 2 surgeries, many return visits to CHEO and severe asthma, our Jordan’s spirit to fight for life has been a true blessing and ultimately a life saver.  Without that spirit and drive we believe that Jordan would not be here today. 

That same spirit met some resistance when Jordan entered the public school system.  We got to know the principle and vice-principal of our school, a little too well through frequent visits to their offices (not by our choice) and our communication with the teachers become almost daily in the first 4 years of Jordan’s school career. 

Jordan is in grade 3 and this is his 5^th year in the public education system.  We enrolled Jordan in Black Belt Excellence last fall, with hopes that the self-esteem he would build through participation in the program would offer him a better sense of self.  We hoped that the confidence he would gain through knowing how to defend himself on the school yard (he is still well below average size as a result of coming into the world so very tiny), might put an end to the physical contact that Jordan was engaged in at school.  We hoped that Jordan would identify with the respect and courtesy that martial arts teaches so that he could feel proud of good behaviour with both children and adults.  We hoped he would gain some friends and love the fitness aspect of the program.

After just 5 months in the program, we are pleased to report that we have not yet visited the principal or vice-principal of the school this year, Jordan is absolutely loving Taekwon- Do and is so excited on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s to participate, Jordan understands respect and courtesy for others in a way that I never thought he would at the age of nine.  Jordan has not engaged in physical contact during this school year to date (surprising and somewhat ironic that training in martial arts is able to teach children self-defense and at the same time impart to them the exclusive times when martial arts should be used).  Jordan shows more confidence this year than ever before.

Thank you, we look forward to continuing to work with you and build the values of Taekwon-Do into Jordan's life. - S&K Clark

"The lessons Joshua has learned from Taekwon-Do with respect to never giving up and always doing your best certainly helped him through his first high school exams. He is a wonderful son, very loving, caring, and helpful. Who can ask for anything more?" - J. McKenna

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Leadership

"Thanks for your time and caring in helping Chris develop as a maturing person and not just as a Taekwon-Do student.  I truly believe that the opportunities open to him in Taekwon-Do training and in being able to branch out and assist in lower belt classes will develop him into a more well-rounded adult who will be more comfortable and confident with himself.  My goal is to raise my kids to become the best they can possibly be in whatever they choose and your Taekwon-Do training and the opportunity for Chris to help others is definitely helping him on that path." Thanks, Sue M.

"I am very proud of my son's achievements as a mentor for the children at your martial arts academy. I must say he has showed me that he is maturing into a responsible young man in and out of your school.

Mr. Jason Perrier will be attending college this fall and continuing his education. This in itself is impressive and makes me proud. Mr. Jason Perrier saved his money working part-time and paid for his first year tuition on his own. Being responsible for his future and striving for his goal of 3rd Dan is fantastic and we are all proud of his hard work and dedication to Taekwon-Do. It will be a day to remember watching my son run the 10km. That was quite an achievement for him. 

I would be remiss if I failed to recognize that my son's achievements are in part due to your continuing support and your place in Mr. Perrier's life as a role model throughout the years.

I would like to say thank you to yourself, your brother Mr. David Nguyen and the other Black Belts and students for being there for my son and showing him the way to a great future in the life of Taekwon-Do." - D. Perrier, June 2002

"I ended up with the highest grade in my leadership course at school, and I know that Taekwon-Do, and all the extra things we do through it played an important role in that." - K. Makela

"If it weren't for the leadership skills I learned from Taekwon-Do, I would not have become a Red Cross and Life Savings Instructor or Lifeguard. They each carry a large amount of responsibility and with responsibility comes leadership. I now know how hard it is to get somewhere in life, and if it weren't for Taekwon-Do, it would probably be a lot harder." - P. Noury.

"As leaders, the Leadership Team must find new places and goals for our school so that all our members have some place of significance to them that they want to go. This "place" does not refer specifically to a geographical location, but a physical, mental, or even spiritual plane that they have never reached. This goal or place is the key to keeping students motivated and coming to class. We all need goals to keep burning our inner flame and passion for training." - J. Makela

"Matthew better understands leadership as a result of his participation in the group. He is learning that to be strong and positive in times of difficulty and uncertainty can have a great effect upon others, as well as oneself. He is learning to help and encourage others, and is quick to share their joy when they achieve or improve. He is learning that to be trusted and respected, one must trust and respect others, and to be worthy of their trust and respect. These are all qualities that Matthew has observed from the instructors and students of his Taekwon-Do group, and it has certainly helped his own development. For example, despite this being his first year playing hockey, Matthew’s positive attitude, dedication, and encouragement of his teammates led his coaches to nominate him for the team’s ‘Best Leader’ and ‘Most Valuable Player’ awards." - B. Sutherland

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Perseverance

"It is important to include all aspects of life into a child’s upbringing, of which Taekwon-Do is one of the most significant influences, which will frame Mélanie’s personality for years to come.  She is realizing that certain tasks or homework may seem to be insurmountable when first introduced, but like the multiple belt levels in Taekwon-Do, small and significant steps towards a goal will make the journey in life not only achievable, but a fun and learning experience along the way. She should not succumb to the pressures of a task; she should break it down into achievable steps. - G. & P. Racine, April 2002

"Mitchel is living a dream even at his young age and he is wanting to be a Black Belt and is eager and motivated to work towards it one belt level at a time.
 - R. Ereaut

“Two important concepts learned through Jason’s Taekwon-Do training are practice and persistence. Training takes direct involvement and is a longer duration investment than many other activities children are exposed to.  At nearly 3 yrs now, it is his longest attendance at an activity.” – D. Van Kerkhoven

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Respect

At home, I find my son uses some of the things that you say about respect and helpfulness. He does not promote Taekwon-Do as a fighting tool but more of a way to control himself, protect himself and gain and show respect to others. - R. Ereaut

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Self-Confidence

Participating in Taekwon-Do with her brother allows my daughter a positive experience being a good role-model and helper. This also helps increase her own self-confidence in a non-competitive environment. - Deanne D.

Taekwon-Do has greatly improved Chris’ physical fitness level. It has given him a lot of opportunity to improve his self-confidence. This can be seen when he helps out in the class before him with the lower belts. He is more interactive with them and appears more confident in helping them out. This is a huge step forward in Chris’ confidence in himself. Taekwon Do has been extremely beneficial towards improving his self-confidence. No other activity that Chris does is as beneficial in developing this part of Chris. A heartfelt thanks! - S. and C. Maskell

"Alex has grown in confidence over the past few months and is becoming more assertive in his day-to-day interactions.  We believe this improvement is a combination of an excellent teacher at school and his Taekwon-Do training." - M. Gauthier

"My son has improved a lot since he started his Taekwon-Do training. He has developed his self-confidence especially in doing his work at school. His grades and behaviour at school have really improved a lot. He is always excited to attend his Taekwon-do training and is very proud of his uniform. He even asked me to take pictures with his uniform and send them to his cousins in the Philippines.

"We are proud of Camille and all the progress she has made over the last 3 years in Taekwon-Do. She finds the training and exercise fully rewarding. We see our daughter growing confident and assured of herself." - The Matutes

"Matthew’s confidence in his abilities has developed. He is more willing to try new things, and when he has difficulty (usually at first) he does not lose interest; instead he continues to work on them until he achieves good results." - B. Sutherland

Physically, Andrew’s health has improved significantly since he started training Taekwon-Do. He shows his great endurance when we are bicycling together.   I must admit that sometimes I have a hard time catching up with him.  Mentally, Taekwon-do training helps him more focus on school work. He is also more confident to express his ideas in class. – W. Ho

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Self-Control

"Matthew does not use his knowledge of Taekwon-Do to harm anyone or to intimidate others. On a number of occasions this has been tested (usually by his older sisters), and in each case he has made the correct choice." - B. Sutherland

"My son is developing better self-control methods and respect, which will benefit him as well as others in his life. He is eager to show his friends, especially the younger ones like his sister, how to protect themselves with great stress on running away. He does not use his hands to solve a confrontation but tends to use his words or walk away from it more and more which was something he was struggling with before he began Taekwon-Do. Thank you for being a positive role model in my son’s li