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| Grandmasters Stevens, Carsky and Boese |
More than thirty martial artists from across the state
gathered recently at the Stevens Taekwondo -- A New Way of Life studio to train
in advanced techniques.
Local taekwondo black
belts were joined by black belts and instructors from across the state for
instruction in escapes, releases and take downs
utilizing the pressure sensitive nerve areas.
The seminar was led by an eminent trio of grandmasters. Master instructor Dwight Stevens clearly
demonstrated an assortment of
techniques, using anecdotes from his lifetime of experience to
illustrate situations and reactions needed.
Knowing a technique is just the beginning, Stevens told the group.
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| Dr. Stevens demonstrating with Bill Dragolovich |
“To react when needed, you need to practice,” Stevens said.
“Practice a lot.”
Grandmaster Fred Carsky spoke about both stranger and work
place attacks, drawing on his experiences in law enforcement and as a security
consultant. Most relationships can be
expressed as either interview or ambush, Carsky said, demonstrating more
escapes and holds. He recommended
reading “The Gift of Fear” by Gavin DeBecker for more insight into human
reactions to fear.
Grandmaster Henk Boese emphasized simplicity and stance in reactions,
using quick, sharp moves. Presentations
were also made by Dr. Ron Locascio and Master Mike Fenske.
The seminar was attended by black belt students from
UW-Stevens Point Taekwondo Club, Stevens Taekwondo Academy, American Taekwondo
and Fitness of Eau Claire, Rising Son Mixed Martial Arts of Wausau, Warhawk Karate
Club of Whitewater and Dragons Training Center of Milwaukee.
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| Master Jill Konopacky works with Shirley Thao |
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| Tanner Rogers and Kevin Martin work on ground escape techniques with others |
