What does it take
to earn a black belt in taekwondo? Many years of training, discipline and perseverance.
In fact, four Pine-Richland High School
students have achieved more than a black belt. They have earned second and in
some cases third degree black belts.
Ninth graders Lindsay Holland and Sedona Rocher are prepping to earn their third degree black belts in October of 2017. Most recently, ninth grader Kelley McLain earned her second-degree black belt and her sister Kaela McLain earned her third degree black belt.
Earning a first, second and third degree requires many years of training. The four ninth graders have been training since they were nine years old at Zang TKD in Warrendale, where they practice 2-3 days a week. They train under the direction of seventh degree black belt Grand Master Robert Zang.
To earn a black belt, students are required to learn technique in forms, sparring and board breaking. The discipline teaches self-defense techniques and leadership qualities. They also live under the tenets of Integrity, Modesty, Courtesy, Self-Control and Indomitable Spirit.
