ryley lu
1st poom | april 2023

Hello everyone! My name is Ryley and today I will talk about how I started my taekwondo journey.

When I was 5 years old, my parents took me to a taekwondo trial lesson at the Lalor French Hall, when it was newly opened in 2017. That was when I first met Master Benecia and Master Bryanna. They tried to persuade me to join in, but I was too shy. And at that time, all I wanted to do was gymnastic and dancing. I did end up joining gymnastic, but it only lasted 1 term. It wasn’t what I thought it was.

Fast forward to 2021, when I was 9 years old, my parents decided to take my little sister, Avery, for a trial in taekwondo. I came along and watched on the side. On her second trial lesson, I was convinced by Master Joyce to join in.

By the end of the class, we were both enrolled to be a member. I agreed to join, thinking that if my sister becomes a black belt in taekwondo, all eyes will be on her. I did not want her to get all the attention.

Two years later in 2023, today I am grading for my black belt. I did not think I would be able to accomplish this. There were times that I found it difficult. I was frustrated and upset with myself. But with a lot of practice, I got there at the end and realized it wasn’t that hard after all.

Throughout my journey, I have learnt a lot and gained many skills. Taekwondo has helped me to build strength, flexibility, attention span, and greater alertness. For example, I noticed this when I was playing sports at school.

Taekwondo pushes me outside my comfort zone. I know they are trying to build my confidence. With each grading I go through, I feel a boost of confidence. But there are times, when I still feel shy. However, I will continue to work on it and try to build my self-esteem.

Taekwondo has also taught me discipline, the need to schedule for training and self-improvement. Every day, I aim to practice my poomsae and syllabus. There were times where I even practice my poomsae at the shopping centre while waiting for my mum to pay for her items.

Now coming to the end of my essay, I would like to thank my parents who have supported and helped me through my Taekwondo journey. You came to watch me during each class, sparring and grading. And also a big help with practicing at home.

Lastly, a big Thank you to Master Joyce, Master Brian, Master Bryanna and Master Benecia. You have been wonderful and patient teachers. I am proud to say that I was a member of Weiwu Taekwondo and able to obtain my black belt with you. I will miss coming to class every Tuesday and Thursday.