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Keith Hafner's Karate • 214 S. Main • Ann Arbor, MI 48104 • 734-994-0333 • khafner@provide.net |
Dear Master Hafner,
I have to confess that I was skeptical about some of the things I
had heard about martial arts and “Keith Hafner’s Karate.” Maybe that’s why I
walked past your school for almost 20 years before I stopped in to give it a
try. Besides, I’m a lawyer. I’m paid to be skeptical.
…I thought that studying karate might help me get in better shape, but I questioned whether it could make a significant difference. Since I started training, however, my flexibility and stamina have improved dramatically. In fact, my training at “Keith Hafner’s Karate” helped prepare me mentally and physically to complete two marathons, four half-marathons, and several other long distance runs. Also, my training has proven to be a great stress reliever, which has helped immeasurably in many facets of my professional and personal life.
I was also skeptical of some of the things I had heard “Keith Hafner’s Karate” could do for children. But my experience as a member of the school’s ‘SWAT’ team of volunteer instructors has convinced me that everything I had heard is true. Training at “Keith Hafner’s Karate” can indeed provide tremendous help and support to children in developing such essential life skills as focus, confidence, and self discipline. I see it every day I teach. I feel very privileged to be able to help our young students grow in these areas.
Of course, people talk a lot about the special skills that “Keith Hafner’s Karate” offers children, but I want to stress that it offers something very special to adults as well. “Keith Hafner’s Karate” provides an oasis where everyone is treated with respect, where everyone is encouraged (and expected) to do their best, and where every individual is nurtured and helped to excel. It is a very civilized corner of an often uncivilized world. I think many more adults would try it if they knew what they would find.
Thank you, Master Hafner, for all you have done for me, for so many of my friends, and for all of your students. Len Niehoff
I
am writing to let you know how much I admire the work done by you and all of
your staff at your school. My son Alex has been a student with you for about 3
months now. We were immediately impressed with the warm, inviting and accepting
atmosphere. Mr. Rowton’s demeanor and humor made all of us feel welcome and at
ease.
And while it took Alex a few sessions to “learn the ropes” all of your
instructors were very patient, supportive and encouraging of him. Last
Saturday, he received his yellow belt and is indeed hooked on karate. He loves
it!
I am a developmental psychologist and much of the research I do involves seeking to understand the processes by which your children become “engaged” in school and in extracurricular activities; that is, not simply doing the work, but excited by it and motivated to do their best. I have learned a great deal simply by watching Alex’s classes. The energy of your instructors is contagious and while there is a pattern to the way the classes are taught, there is also plenty of novelty. The most telling aspect, I believe, is that Alex is clearly learning karate, yet he sees the classes as fun rather than as work.
I have nothing but praise for all of your instructors. Mr. Terry Brennan, in particular, is a gifted teacher. It is rare to see someone with his abilities to both communicate with children and motivate them. In fact, I have seen Terry use techniques that are often taught to clinical psychology students as part of their training in group psychotherapy with children!
We are delighted that Alex is enjoying the lessons and that we were able to find such a wonderful karate school in Ann Arbor. We look forward to continuing to work with you and all of your staff. Thanks again for all your efforts! W. Todd Bartko. Ph.D., Ann Arbor
I have never seen such natural camaraderie and teamwork as I have seen at our school! People I have only just met are helping me, or I them, without second thought. For such an individualized activity, it is the team that keeps us motivated and moving forward. Tony Bertoia, Ann Arbor
The positive attitude and energy I get from each class keeps me wanting to come
back! Tana Breiner, Saline
The “Keith Hafner’s Karate” instructors are the best “coaches” I have encountered - wonderful role models for my son! Mark Banaszak-Holl, Ann Arbor
The
instructors are friendly and approachable. I am always pushed to better
myself. The class schedule is flexible. I enjoy the overall class
atmosphere. Duncan Breese, Ann Arbor
I like that every class is different. That the instructors incorporate a sense of humor while encouraging us to work just a little bit harder. Mary Beth Day, Whitmore Lake
What do I like about Karate? The constant support and positive environment of the teachers create in class which makes for growth in the students and allows us to overcome our own short comings. Thank you!
Peter Gluck, Ann Arbor
I
love “Keith Hafner’s Karate!” Karate is exciting. It’s a place where I can
come where there’s no negative talk. After every class I just feel great and
blessed to be able to participate. I get excited when I know I’m coming. I
even feel sad when I haven’t been there in a long time!
Everyone in the building is so friendly and it makes you feel wanted. Even
though I’m not a Black Belt, I’m still excited to tie my brown belt. Being on
the demo team has boosted the excitement to a whole other level. Some people
get upset because they’re not in this demo or that demo, but I feel so blessed
just to be on the team.
At karate, you have to set goals. When I achieve them it
helps boost my self-esteem. What I also like about karate is all the forms.
When I first started I only knew like one form and I always worked to know more,
so I get really excited to learn new ones and then to help people with theirs.
Coming to karate I can’t get into any trouble. I even like
watching other classes. All of the friends that you make are awesome. Even if
I had to resign from karate I would still do it at home. I love karate!
I like working out hard (like at
noon class). The staff is awesome, and I love all the benefits including better
fitness and confidence. Karate is Fun! Ani Seromik, Ann Arbor
Each of my children and myself
have developed wonderful friendships with people of incredible character. I was
amazed how many karate people came to Sarah’s graduation, including Mrs.
Hafner. It’s a wonderful environment to expose my family to! Marita Martin,
Chelsea
I like the positive atmosphere, especially that I’m encouraged and expected to do my best. No one ever says “you can’t do that!” Cara Slavens, Ann Arbor
“Keith Hafner’s Karate” has
given me a framework that I use to incorporate all aspects of my health and
exercise program. After many failed exercise and eating programs in the past,
finally I have been able to plan and stick with a healthy lifestyle! Pat
Brougham, Dexter
Just a brief note of thanks on the occasion of my promotion to Brown Belt. I knew when I started Karate with you two years ago, I would notice changes in my life; I didn’t realize how dramatic those changes would be!
Here’s a brief list of how my life has improved since I began studying Karate with you and Master Robert:
· I have much greater focus in my life
· I am in much better physical condition
· I am much more flexible which makes little things like walking around easier—really!
· I deal with tense situations much more calmly
· I almost never lose my temper; those who know me well find this to be the greatest benefit I have reaped from “Keith Hafner’s Karate!”
A side benefit is that my nephew Max has joined the school and is now an orange belt! His mom and dad tell me that he now offers to vacuum his room—and doesn’t quit until he has done his best job! Max is five. I don’t have children but I don’t know of many five year old children that offer to vacuum their rooms. So this also is a benefit our family has gained from “Keith Hafner’s Karate.”
Master Hafner, when I joined the school, I gave reasons for joining the school; I think one of them was to improve my flexibility. Little did I know! I have done this but I have done so much more!
I can’t thank you and Master Robert enough. My experience at “Keith
Hafner’s Karate” has been one of the most positive experiences of my life.
Glenn Davis, Clinton
I am delighted to have an opportunity to extol the virtues of the martial arts program that you have established at “Keith Hafner’s Karate.” As you know, I have been a student of the school for eight years and I am presently working towards the rank of 3rd Degree Black Belt.
My training and study of the martial arts in general and at your school specifically have benefited me in many ways. In addition to physical conditioning and self defense skills, my powers of concentration and my overall ability to be focused and disciplined have greatly improved.
Specifically, the benefits realized in concentration and discipline came into play while attending Law School and simultaneously training for my 1st degree black belt promotion. I can honestly say that although the demands I placed on myself at the time were extreme, I believe I was able to achieve and excel to a large degree because of my Martial Arts training.
In addition to the personal benefits realized from your program, I am and have always been impressed and proud to be a part of a program which places an emphasis on the development of children. This emphasis is manifested not only in the training at the school, but in the varied programs brought into the community such as the “Say No to Drugs” seminars and demonstrations which I have participated in.
Please feel free to refer any prospective students and or parents of students to
me as a reference regarding the school or the program philosophy. I look
forward to a continued and beneficial association with you and your program.
Michael J. Concannon, Ann Arbor
Thank you for this outstanding newsletter - another example of the partnership you have formed with parents. The values you teach and more importantly demonstrate are an outstanding compliment to the values we as parents try and teach and live with our children. I would like to take advantage of your ‘time to share’ and offer and relate a story that exemplifies the values my son Josh has been learning and acquiring.
Riding the elementary school bus can be an overwhelming experience for children in the younger grades. Kindergarteners, first and second graders are sometimes subject to the harsh behaviors and actions of the older children on the bus. They witness or unfortunately may be the subject of teasing, aggressive behavior and out right “meanness.” With the help of the confidence and self esteem Keith Hafner’s program instills in our son, he has been able to manage situations that have arisen so far. The point of this story, however, goes beyond his personal situations.
There is a rather good sized 5th grader (call him Dan) on the bus who
is a neighbor and a friend of Josh’s. Josh, who is a 1st grader, and
Dan respect each other, even given the age difference. There is another boy
(call him Eric), a 4th grader who is also a friend of Josh’s.
It came about that for whatever reason Dan began mercilessly
teasing Eric. Dan would sing very mean spirited songs about Eric. He would get
others to join in. Dan would sit behind Eric on the bus and pester him. Dan
would follow Eric home from the bus poking and shoving him. This happened on
maybe three distinct occasions.
Obviously, Josh knew this was very wrong, but unfortunately, he
also knew that this is the way kids sometimes behave. When the teasing did not
stop, Josh who is very fair minded, kind and respectful to others, decided it
was time to take action to stop it.
One day recently after Dan had started a group of kids on a
teasing song about Eric on the bus ride room, Josh got off the bus in a hurry to
track Dan down. He passed by his mother who was walking to pick him up, telling
her he needed to talk to Dan. She stopped and watched Josh catch up with Dan
half way down the street. As Josh tells it, he firmly questioned Dan about his
giving Eric a hard time. “Dan, why do you keep bothering Eric? I know you’re a
good guy, and so is Eric. So what’s going on?” Dan, who really is a good guy,
said he was just having fun with Eric. He liked giving him a hard time. Josh
told him it wasn’t right. He told him it was obvious Eric did not like it. On
a couple of occasions Eric was almost brought to tears. Josh told him he needed
to stop it. Dan seemed to feel bad about it, apologized to Josh and told him he
would stop.
At 6 ½, Josh had the self esteem, confidence and ability to
confront a 10 year old about a situation he felt was terribly wrong. The older
boy also had the respect for Josh to listen to what he had to say and agree that
what Dan was doing should stop.
The values Josh learns and practices start at home and are strongly reinforced by your program. In this situation, Josh clearly demonstrated the self esteem, confidence and strong sense of right and wrong that he has developed through the partnership of his parents and “Keith Hafner’s Karate.”
Frank and Shawn Preissle, Ann Arbor
This letter is in reference to Friday, January 14th during the 5pm class. Timm Rowton was leading the class. Not only does he have tremendous enthusiasm and dedication to the principles in fostering those black belt qualities/characteristics in all students, his method of delivery is full of warmth and caring, enthusiasm and motivation. Timm has a magical way of blending firm expectations, fun and laughter with earnest values. He is a genuine gift to your school, and a blessing to all the students.
He communicates with students at their level of understanding. He told a story on Friday about his venture to his daughter’s school when she was in first grade. He talked about a particular behavior that he witnessed of two students in the gym when the teacher blew the whistle. He didn’t even know these students, yet, he spoke of them so highly – the point being – Tim talks ‘real life’ with these karate kids - their real life. His frequent stories affirm the potential in each and every student standing before him as well as clue them in to the expected response.
During the message of the week, Tim removed his belt. He asked the kids if he was still a black belt. There was a resounding “Yes, sir!” He talked about being a black belt on the inside. Every child was sitting straight with eyes focused on Tim. Sincerity and warmth emanated from his whole being. He looked at those kids on the floor and opened his arms and heart as he gently spoke, “You are wonderful kids.”
They bowed to the flag, to each other (after Tim said “I bow to you because I respect you for being a black belt on the inside.”) and then, “Now the most important bow, to your parents.” After that bow, Tim had the kids shout “I love you” to all of us. Then they walked off the floor, hands behind them, heads held high, faces smiling.
That whole hour was very inspiring. I am grateful for Tim Rowton and the way that he gives to so many students. Again, he is a genuine gift to your school. Susie Weber, Manchester
PS The parent involvement was GREAT!
PPS Nathan explained to me later that “being a black belt on the inside means that you’re always a black belt even without wearing your belt, especially outside of karate class. It means that you have a black belt heart.”
Our family loved seeing all of you when we were in Ann Arbor last week. It certainly reminded us that it is not simply the karate we miss, it is you guys and the atmosphere you have created. You were a big chunk of our life in Ann Arbor!
I know you realize that you have something special there. I just wish more schools could grasp your vision. I also wish there were some way we, as a family, could keep in contact with you and your philosophy of martial arts. Is there any way we could transplant a little of “Keith Hafner’s Karate” in northwest Arkansas? That sounds like a rhetorical question, but in all actuality, I am very serious! Any ideas?
The school we found in our area is the closest we could come to “Keith Hafner’s Karate,” but martial arts has become a drudgery rather than the passion that it was for us in Ann Arbor. Here, Martial Arts is a competitive sport. What you have is Martial Arts as a way of life. THAT is what we connected with.
I can hardly stand to think of what we had to give up when we left “Keith Hafner’s Karate,” but the persistent spirit in me wants to seek out any way to recapture a little bit of what we had. We have a house in the back of our house that is ready to turn into our own private karate studio.. We just had mirrors put in. I am serious in wondering if there is any way we can do karate with you long-distance. What do you think? Keith, you’re great at thinking “outside the box!” Brainstorm and please let us know; it might have to just be keeping up with you on your web page. But I’d like more than that.
It was good for our souls to connect with you again. The McKinnons, Arkansas (Stan, Lori, Jackson, and Katie)
I would like to congratulate you, your staff, and the members of the Demo team for putting on such an entertaining show. Our whole family enjoyed it – even our two year old daughter! Ben, our five year old purple belt, couldn’t stop talking about the routines during the entire drive home. More importantly, he insisted on practicing his own form when we got home, a rare request given his reluctance to practice outside of class. I was even more surprised at how intense and focused he practiced, and amazed that he kept at it for a half hour!
You
clearly know about the motivational value of these shows; I just thought that
I’d drop you a line and share our experience with you. Ron Taussig, Ann
Arbor
…the “Keith Hafner’s Karate” program centers on “Black Belt excellence.” What
this means is that the program is designed to gently and lovingly move you
outside of your comfort zone. In other words, some of the things you do may
seem a little scary at first, but you will be able to do them because you will
be surrounded by friendship and support. Still, in order to move outside your
comfort zone, you have to rely on inner qualities, such as courage. These
qualities will get stronger and stronger as they are used, just like muscles.
This continues throughout the program, and eventually students develop the
qualities to such an extent that they begin to apply them to other areas of
their life, such as family life and work life. Tricia Reiser, Ann Arbor
As
Daniel nears the completion of his first year in your wonderful program, I
wanted to take a moment to tell you how much I feel he has grown as a person.
In just one year, and though Dan is only six, I feel he has developed
persistence, self confidence, concern for others, and self motivation to
complete whatever he attempts. I have been very impressed with your program and
your great staff since Dan began the program here, and give you a large portion
of the credit for the rapid development of the above mentioned qualities in
Daniel. He is looking forward to his goal of Black Belt! Liz & Doug Dormer,
Ann Arbor
What do I like best about Karate? The attitude and positive disposition that the instructors and most all the students possess. Just like negative attitudes, positive attitudes are contagious and I enjoy being in an environment like this one. I have also enjoyed learning new weapons such as the bo and the sticks form. The hard workouts that Mr. Rowton has been giving are really helping to keep me in shape. I hope we have more of them! Kathleen Sosnowski, Ann Arbor
Does it just keep getting better and better? As soon as I started karate, I knew it would be one of the best things I would ever do, but I never dreamed I would have my picture in the window or that I would have a chance to perform with the Demo Team! My experience in your studio has been extremely fulfilling. Thank you for providing these opportunities that have been so enriching. You, your staff, and the other students have motivated and inspired me to work at a level of commitment I’ve rarely felt in the past. I’m loving it and feeling great.
Students discover that the karate lessons and techniques not only strengthen them in new ways physically, but also allow them to recognize that they can take care of themselves more effectively. Students find themselves accomplishing goals they may never have set before, and these achievements build self-confidence. While they are training, the school environment is constantly sending positive messages about their performance; the positive reinforcement from instructors and fellow students reaffirms this growing confidence. Ellen Lynch, Ann Arbor
What do I like about Karate? It improves personal development and self-control, goal setting and achieving. You are encouraged to come out of your comfort zone both mentally and physically. Encouragement and positive feedback from classmates and instructors. Lori Dyer, Ann Arbor
Thank you for this martial art program. I can see Suzanne growing with it. The hope to be able to SWAT helps motivate her. For me it has been a serious “hoot!” As a hoot it has been fun and a real stress relief. I’m sure I’m a “younger” fify-ish with more energy than if I had not become involved. It has also helped strengthen and make the back injury merely a nuisance. Marjorie McRoberts, Ann Arbor
I appreciate the tremendous lift I experience every time I come to class. To surround myself with all of the smiling, positive people at “Keith Hafner’s Karate” makes my day! I nominate the entire staff of “Keith Hafner’s Karate” for the Top Performance Award! Linda Klenczar, Ann Arbor
When I first began taking karate classes I had no idea what to expect. I had always thought of martial arts as a sport, and a sport of violence at that. However, you told me in my initial meeting with you that I would gain focus and self confidence, and slowly but surely I’ve gained both. I appreciate your confidence in the “Keith Hafner’s Karate” school. I believe that you represent Martial Arts in a very positive way. Thanks for the wonderful school you provide! Lori Kempf, Ann Arbor
I wanted to pass along our experience with “Keith Hafner’s Karate.” Our son, Evan, was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome (a form of high-functioning Autism) when he was a third grader. We were quite understandably looking for ways to help him cope better. We hired tutors and had him seeing a Psychologist weekly.
A message therapist who was helping him with sensory integration issues recommended this karate gym. Her son and daughter had both had great experiences there. My initial reaction wasn’t very positive because I didn’t think karate had anything to do with the issues Evan was so desperately struggling with. How could karate help with a Pervasive Development Disorder? We were desperate to help Evan develop a positive attitude and stamina to overcome the many obstacles learning posed for him.
“Keith Hafner’s Karate” was running a special invitation for few trial lessons, so we started. Tenuously and cautiously we entered the gym. We were immediately and warmly greeted by a caring, effacious staff. Evan’s trial lessons earned him a white belt. More importantly, his father and I watched as the whole gym clapped for him when he earned it.
I saw Evan gaining self-confidence, stamina and self control. Every single instructor at Keith Hafner’s Karate is professional, caring and a master at strategic instruction. As a teacher myself, I gained some useful techniques watching the staff deal with a variety of students.
Over the past three years we have watched the metamorphosis of our son from a disabled and handicapped individual to a competent, independent, and self-disciplined young man.
The people at “Keith Hafner’s Karate” cared about Evan’s school work, social development, and home behavior. Every facet of his responsibilities was covered. The “message of the week” proved to be more useful than weekly social skills therapy.
Evan is now a brown belt. He has a 3.9 average in school and accepts responsibilities at home. He has a healthy, happy and confident outlook on his life. He has to work harder to get to where most kids start from and Karate has given him the confidence to do that.
As I write this, I ma wishing that I could tell every parent of a special needs child to try Karate. I am forever grateful to Keith Hafner and his wonderful, effective staff for all their expertise. Brie Stosick, Dexter
For five years we have watched in awe as your wonderful teachers have helped our son grow in confidence, focus, and learning to think for himself about honesty, integrity and courage. The teachers always ask for more – showing their belief that he can do more – and they are always positive and supportive. We are looking forward to the next five years! Marta Manildi, Ann Arbor
Wow! It’s great to read comments of my fellow martial artists. We feel this has been the right path to take in our lives. We are so grateful to have such great role models for our kids, especially through the teen years. Not only the instructors but peers are so important. Thanks for the lifestyle change - not only physical, but mental and spiritual! Teri Husted, Saline
What do I like about Karate? The positive, enthusiastic attitude of all instructors and staff, which encourages the same attitude in us. The variety of techniques and the exercises we are given in class. The way you push us harder in class! Lore Rogers, Whitmore Lake
Simple, strong, repetitive movements of the body teach the mind “I can” and encourage the student to push themselves out of their comfort zone! Dan Husted, Saline
I cannot begin to express my thanks for all of the wonderful things you and your staff have done for my family. My daughter loves coming to karate class, and adores the staff. She is thriving under the supportive and encouraging male role models. Thanks especially to Mr. Bannick for all of his one-on-one talks and discussions with Nicole lately. Thanks to all of you! Jan Natelborg, Ypsilanti
I am writing to thank you for the opportunity to be a member of the SWAT team at Keith Hafner’s. It was a great experience being able to get to know other members of the school in an informal way. Of course, it was also amazing to be able to learn so much more about the philosophy of the martial arts as a life style, not just a discipline. I enjoyed helping out at the school during last spring’s tournament, and if you ever need more help, just let me know. Alison Melnick, Ann Arbor
I would feel remiss if I didn’t share with you notice of the special courtesy I received from your staff of instructors. Your pride and confidence in their role representing “Keith Hafner’s Karate” is well deserved. Perhaps, as the only parent staying overnight at the Black Belt Power Weekend, I was the lucky recipient of their focused attention by default – but, I don’t think so. Their sincerity and thoughtfulness was evident throughout.
It would be inherently unfair to single out any specific individual(s), for all shared in making me feel included and for 24 hours one of the “team.” However, unfair or not, I am compelled to offer an extra word of gratitude to Mr. Heskett, Mr. Slay, and Mr. Roesch for their thoughtfulness and congeniality. To them, please convey my thanks. As well, for an evening well spent, please share my words of appreciation with all the instructors involved and though not mentioned by name let them know they contributed significantly and earned my appreciation. John H. Davidsen, Chelsea
Thank you again for extending me an invitation to the Parenting Seminar you held
a few weeks ago. I found it to be time well spent. I especially found the
information regarding the four personality types helpful. I also liked your
ideas about raising self-esteem, as it is always at risk. Your ideas about
school being only part of our children’s education as well as your advice on
discussing future possibilities (good and bad) ahead of time were also very
helpful. Thank you again for your help and friendship! Carol Adams, Ann
Arbor
I wanted to take a moment to let you know how important being asked to join the SWAT Team is to me. I feel honored to be thought of as a candidate and to be asked makes me feel proud to be part of the Team and a part of the Number One school. I feel that being a part of the Team will help me with some self-confidence issues that I am working on. I know I will get a lot out of being on the Team and will do what it takes to give back to the program to the best of my abilities. Thank you again! Bill Weber, Manchester
Thank you again for all the wonderful things you’ve taught Jenn about values and self-worth. I also thank you for your classes, although there are times when I can’t help but to think that I’m paying people to make me work this hard. I really enjoy how hard the classes are and how much better I feel about myself, both physically and mentally. You truly have a great staff of both young folks and older ones! Laurie Shaw-Smith, Ann Arbor
Thank you for inviting us to attend your seminar you had a few weeks ago regarding popularity and peer pressure. You presented well. We enjoyed ourselves, and it is good to know who is concerned about the youth in our community. We have become ambassadors of your program, and you should be commended on your philosophy.
We try to teach Jed and Abbey about doing the right thing. “Why” is the bigger part. We tell them that for every action there is a reaction. We try to paint a picture about good choices and practical outcomes. We believe this is good, because we believe they are happy children. This is not the way the world is. We let them know that too. I think awareness and the ability to teach “awareness” in underrated.
Jed loves karate and he has already become a little more conscientious about the actions he takes, choices he makes, and the outcomes perceived. Keep up the good work. You have an excellent staff.
Jerry & Kathy Davis, Ann Arbor
What do I like about Karate? Helpful instruction and encouragement. Physical fitness gained. Identifiable improvement in ability resulting in increased confidence. Stress management. Michael Syntiak, Ann Arbor
We would like to thank you and your staff for the wonderful examples you all set for the children attending your classes. The constant encouragement, along with the constant reminders and examples of how responsible and respectful people behave, provide an excellent environment for children. It is very encouraging to us to see there are still places where children can learn how to be respectful by the example of adults being respectful of the children, and expecting respect from them.
We would also like to thank you for the kindness and supportiveness your staff provides. This is especially important both for the children you are kind to, but also for the other children who can see adults and children being kind and supportive of each other. Although we have noticed these qualities in you and your staff for some time, we were particularly struck by how well your staff handles the annual spring competition. Children are encouraged to try hard and do their best, but they are also shown how to be “good sports” by cheering for and supporting the other competitors. Thanks again and keep up the good work.
Maria Riolo & Susan Monet, Ann Arbor
Thank you so much for giving Ian the opportunity to enjoy karate over the summer. I really wish he could continue his studies there, but the distance makes it impossible. Ian has learned so much and all of the staff’s positive attitude boosted Ian’s self confidence. I cannot thank you enough. Jeannetta Helton, Ypsilanti
Once again, thanks. I have learned more about parenting than you will ever know. I came to your school to learn self-defense, lose a few pounds and have fun with my daughter. Little did I know that you would teach me how to raise up a child…emm…Think there is a scripture in there…Proverbs 22:6 Kathy Ratliff, Dexter
At our last meeting you had asked me why Max and I chose “Keith Hafner’s Karate.” I would like to take a moment to answer that question, and to tell you the reasons that we stay with you.
When we began looking for “karate lessons,” I called and visited most of the schools within driving range. My six year old and I had made the decision to study the martial arts very seriously, and we wanted to make sure we found a school that was equally committed to us.
All of the schools taught the “mechanics” of karate, but all of them except “Keith Hafner’s Karate” had a “retain feel.” Your school has more of a “family feeling” that I can only describe as genuine caring for my son and I. Despite the size of Keith Hafner’s Karate, all of the instructors know us by name, but more importantly know about us personally. This is especially important for my son’s sake, as he probably has more needs than most kids in terms of focus, discipline, etc.
For my part, I have found that Keith Hafner’s Karate teaches so much more than Karate lessons. You teach “karate lifestyle.” We stay because we recognize the inner power and spirit building that takes place here. In addition to the fitness aspect and “art” of Karate, we are learning courage, and so many other “inner aspects” that characterize Keith Hafner’s true vision of what it must mean to be a Black Belt Karate student here. Even my six year old recognizes the power for growth to be found at “Keith Hafner’s Karate.”
I cannot believe the transformation that my son and I are making together, as we find new friendships at “Keith Hafner’s Karate.” I couldn’t pry my son away, nor would I think of doing so! I just can’t believe it! Thank you. Mike & Max Mortimer, Ann Arbor
I have some bad news, some good news, and more bad news to share. In January of this year, I lost my job with ANR Pipeline when our parent company the Coastal Corp. merged with El Paso Energy (bad news Vol 1).
Now for the good news: On Monday, I received and accepted an offer to work for a new company.
Now for bad news Vol II. My new position is in Houston. I will be starting work May 1. I will be spending the month of April house hunting and moving, and therefore next week will be Jennifer’s last week of participation.
Before I sign off, I wanted to let you know that Jennifer and I think the world of you and your staff. My purpose for having Jenny join your school was to have her learn from positive role models, to adopt a positive can-do attitude, and to learn self control. There’s no question that the instructors radiate positive, can-do attitude, and some of it has rubbed off on Jenny. Although we have a long way to go, I have definitely observed improvements in her self control as well.
Keep up the good work, and best of luck to you and all of your staff. Cliff Salawage, Ann Arbor
Karate really IS fun!! I wanted to thank you again for your generosity in
making it financially possible for me to attend classes. Your teachers are
fabulous, the students are friendly and welcoming, and I'm learning so much from
everyone.
Despite my initial embarrassment about what spectators might
think or say about me as they watched me in classes, I was surprised and pleased
that after only two weeks of group classes I didn't even notice anyone in the
spectator area until after class was dismissed and I was going to the dressing
room.
I also have been impressed that the teachers have spent class time working
solely with groups of white belt students--I might have expected that a teacher
at his level of expertise would focus only on higher ranking students.
After 2 ½ years of sitting in the spectator area and
watching Carrie benefit from your program, I'm glad that I decided to take the
risk of finally getting out on the floor myself and taking on the quest to be my
best. Karate really IS fun!! Kathy Diehl, Ann Arbor
I wanted to write and let you know of the unexpected benefits I have received since starting with Keith Hafner's Karate last January. First of all, I have spent the last eight years trying with all sorts of diet and exercise programs to lose the weight I gained after having my 6th child, undergoing surgery and then working in a desk job.
While I have not yet attained my ideal weight, I have lost 23 pounds JUST THROUGH COMING TO KARATE TWICE A WEEK!! No dieting or other exercise have been used. My husband, family, and friends are all starting to notice my more fit and shapelier appearance. I had figured karate would help my flexibility, balance, and coordination as well as muscle tone but had no idea of the weight I could lose and am still losing.
Secondly, I have been on two medications for borderline hypertension over
the past four years. Since coming to karate I have my blood pressure under
control and am only on one medication that will also soon be discontinued. My
doctor is extremely happy with this situation and so am I.
The third benefit has been the rapid improvement of my back muscle
problems. While I still cannot do push ups and can feel my back tense on
occasion, I no longer have the problems getting out of bed in the morning or
bending over to pick something up. I also notice that if I do have a back spasm
it goes away in about one minute instead of lasting hours or a whole day as it
did before I started karate. I expect within the next 6 months to experience
even more improvement. I had been told by doctors that my back muscle tension
would never improve -- I guess they never thought about what taking “Keith
Hafner's Karate” might do!
Finally, I want to tell you unequivocally that Keith Hafner's Karate is FUN!!
While the noon classes my daughter and I attend can be physcially demanding
(especially at my approaching 50 years of age), the camaraderie of the other
students, the encouragement of students and instructors and, of course, Master
Robert's great understanding of each student and what they need, all combine to
make coming to Keith Hafner's Karate a very enjoyable experience that I just
can't miss each week!
Every time I sit in the audience while my youngest two are in their karate
class, I try to talk to the parents there that are not in karate and encourage
them to join in. If I were you, I would tell the parents that they are missing
out on a lot of fun and missing the very valuable self-defense techniques that
you can learn as an adult. I did not appreciate how hard my kids work and even
the energy it takes to do your form until I was in karate myself. As of
yesterday, five members of my family are now in Keith Hafner's Karate and we
hope to increase that to include my adult son and teenage son in the very near
future.
“What
do I like about Karate? Positive atmosphere and
discipline. Classes are cool, and mixing in other styles is cool too. I love
kicks, and any classes that develop mental/physical skills, like breaking
rhythms in sparring. Reflex drills are the best!
Intramural competitions (board breaking, tournaments), the mental
workout, noon classes (although Mr. Rowton’s classes have that something
special, too), any exercises that require close physical proximity or dynamic
balance as these things make me most nervous or uncomfortable.
I do have memory of one day, however, when we were doing basics. I
must have been in top form that day, I am not sure. Suddenly my attention,
focus and intensity was razor sharp. My mind was empty. My entire body was
stress free, even though my teeth were clenched, my stomach tight, and my hands
like small cannon balls. I won’t ever forget this particular day.” Bryan
McKeon, Ann Arbor
I
just wanted to write you a quick note to tell you how impressed I was with how
Terry handled a situation with my son Derek Saturday night at belt promotion.
For the first time since doing Karate, Derek froze at belt promotion and
couldn't remember all his form. He didn't give up but repeated the moves he
could remember.
After he received his first gup belt and was dismissed he came over to me.
Derek was upset, and said he didn't want his new belt because he had forgotten
his moves and hadn't done his best. Everything I said to him to try and
reassure him and comfort him with his disappointment was making no headway. He
really felt and verbalized that he wouldn't accept his new belt until he showed
he was worthy of receiving his new belt.
I must say I'm really proud of my son for not giving up and for recognizing
he didn't do his personal best and wanting to do something to change that.
These are great steps for Derek.
That night, as I'm sure you can imagine, Terry was very busy getting the
next group ready for their belt promotion and many parents were talking with
him. Yet when I asked Terry to talk with Derek, it was as if there was no one
else around and he had all the time in the world for us. He was very reassuring
and supportive to Derek. He recognized how important this was to Derek and he
took him over to the side and had him demonstrate his form. He again gave him
some positive praises and put his new belt on him. This made all the difference
in the world to Derek. Terry's talent with working with the kids and his
caring, supportive nature deserves to be commended.
Judy Schummer, Ann Arbor
Last year, when my son Nicholas was in 2nd grade, we were struggling with the
monumentous task of learning to read. Nicholas was reluctant to move on to the
next step of chapter books because it seemed difficult and impossible.
He attended a Karate lesson where the message of the week was on self-confidence
and the ability to try new things. Directly after this class, Nick jumped into
my van and immediately picked up a chapter book that I had been trying to get
him to read for weeks. He said "I feel great, I think I can read this" and he
began to read.
It was like a light went on in his brain and he has been a fluid reader
ever since. He reads well beyond grade level and rarely stumbles or hesitates.
I directly attribute this to the boost in confidence that he needed and was
given by that particular message of the week. Thank you, thank you, thank
you. Karen Banach, Ann Arbor
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