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Local News - October 2002 |
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Kids kick their way to success Sensei says: By DIANE TURBYFILL, LTN Staff Writer October 18, 2002 - The youngsters take their stances. At the call of their sensei, they spring into action — blocking with their hands and taking quick kicks. The children jump around on mats in their bare feet. Some gaze at their opponent with a determined glare. Others smile throughout the entire sparring session. Sensei Libby Friday shows no concern of their approach, only that they pay attention and do their best. “They have to have respect for themselves and others,” Friday says. “(Karate) teaches them discipline and respect.” Friday teaches children the craft of karate in the fellowship hall at Tucker’s Grove United Methodist Church. The piano and hymnals are moved to the side for the Tuesday night classes. Her students range in age from 3 to 40 — the oldest student being her husband, Tony. Tony Friday knows kickboxing but is learning karate moves. The Fridays consider karate a family affair — for their church family and immediate family. Libby Friday first began learning karate with her son, Cameron, when he was 3-years-old. “We’ve been in karate together from the beginning.” She and Cameron took classes side by side. Seven years later, both have earned black belts. “I enjoy it,” she says. “I like the exercise.” Friday accepts students of all ages, and classes are free. Most of the youngsters are church members, but Friday says it’s not exclusive. And she says no one is too young nor too old — older students learn a lot about the moves and themselves; younger children can learn patience. “Children have to be taught that sometimes they just have to be still.” The 38-year-old instructor’s passion for her art is evident. She smiles when her students show enthusiasm for what they’re learning. A look of intensity crosses her face as she throws a kick above her head and demonstrates an aggressive move. Friday attributes her abilities to her instructor Roosevelt Moss. “He’s taught me a lot about how to teach.” A couple of Friday’s students have competed in tournaments under her instruction. “They’ve done really well,” she says. Competition aside, Friday says there’s a bigger purpose behind her volunteerism. “What I’m trying to do is give these kids something positive to do.” ————— Anyone interested in the Tuesday night karate classes may call the Fridays at 704-732-7164.
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© 2001 Lincoln Times-News |
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