Taught under a number of instructors, including Master Michelle Landgren-Lee, these boys have learned how to use Taekwondo to become more well-rounded young men, learning personality traits such as patience and understanding.

Michelle’s husband Tony Landgren-Lee, also an instructor at the studio, describes the purpose of the program as one that teaches the “lessons of disciple and respect taught through the principles of Taekwondo, and to learn how to apply these lessons to all of life.”

Such goals were the reasons Cameron’s grandparents, Paul and Donna McCormick, who are his legal guardians, put him into the program in the first place, citing anger issues and constant “blow ups” as a reason for their concern. The most noticeable difference for Cameron after participating in the program is how he has been able to use some of the techniques he learned at the Academy and apply them to situations in which he used to lose control. And while not perfect, Cameron has worked on applying what he’s learned at the Academy to use at home and in everyday situations. According to his grandparents, this program has been “beyond any expectations.”

Jacob is full vigor and courage as well. He has become more extraverted and “not as shy,” says his mother Jessica Radicz, plus he no longer shies away from social interactions and is not afraid to stand out and be seen. His mother’s pride was impossible to miss as she described how much of a positive influence Taekwondo has been on Jacob.

The boys themselves are proud but remain committed. Taekwondo has given them a sense of confidence as they almost nonchalantly describe their black belts with beaming, bright smiles, and it doesn’t take long to understand how the guidance of excellent parenting as well as great instruction has helped them stand out as some of the youngest black belts anyone will ever meet.

What makes this kind of class so interesting is the kind of complex lessons achieved through continual submission to the Taekwondo principles. “Peer interaction is very important, but in the end it’s up them to decide to learn the respect and discipline required,” explains Tony. As the lessons become actual practices, students are able to take what is learned at Lee’s Black Belt Academy and apply it to every aspect of life, including school. Both Cameron and Jacob’s parents report far better results academically than before Taekwondo.

“We are teaching life lessons,” Tony enthusiastically says of the program.

So efficient are these lessons that the parents are signing up, too. The McCormicks themselves have followed in their 7-year-old grandson’s footsteps and adorned the white robe of martial arts. They aren’t alone as students of all ages take part to become more solid individuals.

Taekwondo is so much more than mere fighting ability; the lessons taught are to be applied consistently throughout one’s journey in this world. Just ask Cameron McCormick and Jacob Organic ... they more than understand.

Lee’s Martial Arts Academy is located at 715 W. Baseline Road, Ste. 1. For more information, call 480-831-2124 or visit www.leesata.com.

Editor’s note: Joshua Spivak is a journalism student at Arizona State University.