Sensei Wendi Barker, Joel Worster, Spencer Bright, Dustin Scharwat and Jessica Barker gathered at Tiger Martial Arts in Freeland for a Junior Black Belt test Dec. 4.  Joel ,14, earned his second degree Junior Black Belt and Dustin, 12, earned his first degree Junior Black Belt.

Congratulations were extended to both the young candidates for their excellent achievement.  To pass the test, students must complete a “Shodan Journal” which, for junior ranks, is a four- to six-month process. Candidates must log 1,000 push ups and 1,000 sit ups, practice karate forms 100 times, organize and lead a community project and read at least one book on self-improvement.  They must also pass a 50-question written test on the history of the school’s style of karate.

To overcome the tremendousness of the task, students break down the requirements to a manageable schedule, doing 10 push ups per day for example. This teaches students that they are capable of doing amazing things if they just take it one step at a time, school owner Barker said.

“We are very proud to say that we have never had a student complete their journal and not pass their test,” Barker added.

“Well done, Joel! Well done, Dustin! Everyone at Tiger Martial Arts is very proud of you both!” For more information about Tiger Martial Arts, visit www.tigermartialarts.info.