American Karate System

Carry A Club

by Mark Soderstrom 3rd Dan

I've been involved in Karate most recently since 2006. I have been a Black Belt since 2011, and have been teaching (karate) for at least 7 years. So last spring I thought it would be no big deal; I could finally start up my own club and teach. I was wrong on several levels. Here are some things to think about.

First, and most important, it is not "my own club." I remember over the years how Dave Thomas says over and over how very grateful he is for all his Black Belts. Now I understand. Nothing is done in a vacuum. I literally could not do this without all the sacrificial help of our entire club. I travel for work, and in a one month period, I was gone for three weeks. Mitch Bailey and another Black Belt just take charge and off they go. Greg Robillard, Eric Fifolt and Marty Brady (Taekwondo guys of Monte Bechtel's old school) step in and teach self defense, weapons mat work and throws. Randy Zattlin shows up and teaches mat work while John Talbot hits people with sticks. We all have different strengths and weaknesses, and we can learn different things from different people. Enjoy the diversity.

Second, Dave has repeatedly, adamantly, said it is the student's class. It is funny how their needs weigh on the mind. In the past, I did my best, but ultimately it rested on Dave. He'd take care of it. Now . . . how do you teach someone to get past that bad habit? Students, make sure you communicate well with your instructors. They are happy to teach, but do not always know where you feel inadequate.

Third, there is a lot of background work that I never saw before. There is much to do with getting the gym, organizing each night, and advertising, coordinating when I am going to be gone, buying gear, taking care of certificates, testing, and attendance. I probably have the smallest class in the AKS, and now I understand why Jude said, "Do not envy someone with 100 students." I do not know how he handles his classes. Wow!

Fourth, I am the student in many ways. I am trying to learn how to challenge in a fun environment, while still doing the required repetition to build muscle memory. Recently, I encountered two students who were pivoting on their heels instead of the ball of their foot. As I explained why we pivot on the ball of our foot, I began to see all the reasons that we do this. I just did it because I was told to do it.

Teaching is a great opportunity to learn. I think most of the people that go into Karate enjoy instruction of others. Continue to be the encouragers that you are. We are a big family, and I am grateful to those who have carried me, taught me, put up with me and straightened me out when I needed it. Keep up the good work and have a great New Year.

Mark Soderstrom 3rd Dan