Four local students talked about what TaeKwon-do has meant to their lives. They are third-degree black belts, and they teach younger students. Prior to becoming teachers, TaeKwon-Do students must spend a minimum of one year developing a presence and leadership qualities as an instructor. All students must swear to carefully observe, acknowledge and live by each one of the five TaeKwon-Do tenets: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.

Alden Chung: On bended knee helping a student learn TaeKwon-Do

Minnetonka High School Junior Alden Chung said his parents forced him into TaeKwon-do lessons on April 3, 2000. They wanted him to be involved with an activity, but he wasn’t excited about it.

With time came maturity and appreciation for what he was learning, and with more lessons came hard work and a black belt.  Eight years later he says TaeKwon-do lessons helped build a strong foundation for the rest of his life.

“It teaches you to be disciplined,” he said. “You set a goal for yourself, and then you try to achieve it.”

Jennifer Doan: Taking form

Jennifer Doan, 18, Chanhassen, joined Master Jeff Engel’s lessons on the same day in April of 2000 as Alden. Now the Chaska High School senior is at the rank of third-degree black belt. She based the emphasis of her learning on the five tenants, saying they have built her character and helped her get over, around and through various obstacles in life and school.

Noah Anderson: Line leader

Anderson, a Chanhassen resident, is a third-degree black belt. He intends to go to St. Olaf College next fall and in Northfield re-open a closed-down TaeKwon-Do club. He referred to TaeKwon-Do lesions during his 10-year journey as a second job and a second home. Living by the five tenants of the art have carried over to all parts of his life and shaped his being, he said.

David Doan: Fists of fury

David, Jennifer’s younger brother at 16 years old, is also a third-degree black belt. He cited learning to respect people as one of the valuable lessons he has learned. “In the beginning years, it’s hard,” he said. “But as you go along, you learn perseverance as you try to develop your skills and perfect yourself.”