What does it mean to be a Black-Belt?  Many schools, styles and martial arts system all have their separate opinions on the topic.  Some look for knowledge, others look for technique whilst few look for the mental fortitude.  Yes we at ASDC Martial Arts believe that a student's ability to demonstrate knowledge and technique is crucial, but at the same time we wouldn't permit you to take our testing unless you knew all the prerequisites to take the test; with most schools feeling the same way.  Yet why is it that most if not all martial arts schools only focus on those aspects during a black belt test?  Focusing 2-3 hours just reviewing the material that the student already knows and has demonstrated on countless occasions.  Then after those 2-3 hours they may fight a bit, do a speech...then that's it...they're done.  Where's the experience?  That life changing event that will cause the student to never forget the challenges they overcame during their test. 

Our philosophy on testing is that which we push our students to their utter breaking points and teach them that they can truly overcome any obstacle that is placed in before them.  That no matter how many pieces they break into they'll always be able to forge a stronger version of themselves.  Never quit and always stay true to themselves and the goals they have laid before them.  To us and our students...that's a true testing.  One that's not based on knowledge; but one based on the ability to persevere.  Anyone can learn a punch or a kick; but not everyone can cultivate their mind the way that our students have.

With that being said two of our students Michael Buchinski and Grant Moore completed a 48 hr black belt test this past weekend.  They lived in the dojo from friday until sunday only sleeping as little as 1 hour a night.  Truly surpassed all of our expectations and were able to overcome not only the test but any doubts they had.  People will never truly understand what those honorable men went through unless they have gone through it themselves.  What can be said is that they have earned the respect of not only their instructors but all of their peers.  Congratulations and welcome to our Black-Belt Family!