Junior Michael Levine has been practicing Taekwondo, a form of martial arts, for over seven years now. Now a second degree black belt, his passion has enabled him to coach Taekwondo at his dojang. Levine began instructing in September and says his decision has been influenced by his coaches.

     Taekwondo is an integral part of Levine’s culture, as he is part Korean. Levine looks upon Taekwondo as a place in his heritage and culture that he hopes to carry on.
     “Taekwondo represents a part of my heritage,” said Levine. “My mom, during her time in Korea, watched and walked by the Taekwondo schools frequently, which is why she wanted me to do it.”
     According to Levine, Taekwondo has helped him on various levels.
     “It’s been really helpful for me both physically and mentally,” said Levine.
     Levine is an assistant instructor at Robinson’s Taekwondo and coaches under the United World Taekwondo Association. Levine is paid to coach different color belts.
     “Kids are the hardest to coach,” said Levine. “It gives you a lot of experience as an instructor.”
     Levine enjoys coaching the children and while teaching them, manages to make it fun and give them a cardio workout at the same time.
     “I like how excited the kids get,” said Levine. “During the class, I would create obstacles for them, and we would go through it together and keep the high energy coming.”
     Levine has also competed at different levels in the sport. He has taken part in five competitions and has been placed second at nationals and first at regionals. Levine has impressed his friends with his accolades and achievements.
     “I think it’s a good and positive accomplishment,” said sophomore Amanda Smith. “It prevents non-violence and it’s also a form of self defense.”
     Levine owes his position as an assistant instructor to his own instructor Michael Long and grandmaster Robinson. Long is the manager at Robinson’s and Robinson owns the franchise.
     “He has a natural talent in Martial Arts,” said Long. “His potential is great and I expect great things out of him. We are always looking for people to share what they have learnt in Martial Arts so it can grow.”
     Levine believes that he will continue to pursue Taekwondo as the years pass.
     “Taekwondo is a part of my life,” said Levine.