“Choon Be”
With the sound of these two words, meaning “ready” the members of Saint Louis University Karate Club prepare for another class of self-defense, martial-arts style.
The Karate Club is an organization designed to allow students with an interest in the Martial Arts to gather and learn the art of Cheezic Tang Soo Do.
The club was founded 11 years ago under the mission to allow people to protect themselves on campus. “When the club was founded, the campus was not as safe as it is now,” said Chris Beardsley, an instructor. “There has always been a big focus on self-defense.”
The workouts not only focus on self-defense but also on artistic style and fighting/sparring. “I find it a good source of exercise. It gives me the confidence that I didn’t have before I started,” said Kevin Kelly, president.
Formal workouts take place on Mondays and Thursdays in the Simon Recreation Center. Beginning workouts take place from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and advanced workouts are held from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
The Karate Club welcomes all SLU students and consists of an average of 30 to 40 members per semester.
No experience is necessary to join the club. Interested students are allowed to partake in three free classes without any obligations.
Students may join for the spring semester until the third week of February. The costs are $30 per semester for the beginners and $25 for advanced.
“It’s fun and a good workout, I keep coming because it keeps me in shape,” said Aaron Koop, freshmen.
The club aims to promote not only the learning of karate, but to increase student relationships through the spirit of competition and good sportsmanship.
In addition to classes, the club participates in an annual tournament in Connecticut with other members of the Cheezic Federation. Some members also participate in the local tournaments sponsored by Budweiser, in the fall, and Coca Cola, in the spring.
During Spring Fever the club holds a demonstration so that students can showcase their skills to the rest of the SLU community.
Once a semester members are tested for ranks of achievements.
There is a community within the club, we embrace each other forming good friendship, said Kelly. “Our club is so much more then kicks and punches.”
