We’re looking back on the wise words shared by our students when they were awarded their black belts. Today, we share the essay written by Noah Saunders who received his black belt on March 16, 2024. Particularly striking about Noah’s essay is the importance of asking for help. This became apparent to Noah when he became an instructor and realized that his understanding of technique now affected his training and his students.

“I would need to put in more effort and ask for help. It is better to ask for help to teach the right thing than to continue on and do the wrong thing. My growth over time not only affected my own abilities, but also the students I was teaching.”

 His full essay is below.

I joined EvolveAll a long time ago, back then it was still called Creative Martial Arts. A few years after I joined, I had to quit because of the amount I had on my plate. Somehow today, I am receiving my black belt. This journey is only possible through the community that EvolveAll has let me be a part of. I have gone through different hardships on this adventure, but I am thankful that I was able to get through them and overcome it through the help of my friends at the studio.

I have taken classes here for over five years, but the first time I really watched Master lead was when I started black belt class. I remember Master saying, “Okay guys, so since it is our first class since testing, we will go a little easier today.” I don’t remember ever sweating more in a class up until then. After that class, I knew that where I was at would not cut it. I had to improve to meet the expectations Master Emerson had of me. I trained more and more, practicing in and out of the studio. Over time I began to get better.

Later, I joined sparring. Sparring gave me more chances to use the techniques that I had learned during class. When they tell you to keep your hands up, they really mean it. The first time I sparred, I got my butt whooped and felt awful, but that helped me realize I needed to look at it in a different way than how I would in other classes. It was humbling and I had to learn to adapt to different people, use new styles of fighting, and keep myself and others safe as I fought.

As I grew through the class, I learned that to be a black belt is to also be a leader. So I started to help teach classes. My first few times helping out in classes were pretty much sitting back and watching it all through a different mindset. I had to learn a different way of looking into things, not as a student to learn, but as someone who teaches. The first time I taught warm up, I was nervous and began stumbling over my words. Not only did the teachers notice, but also the students. That moment was a complete eye-opener for me; this was something that I knew would not be easy for me. I would need to put in more effort and ask for help. It is better to ask for help to teach the right thing than to continue on and do the wrong thing. My growth over time not only affected my own abilities, but also the students I was teaching.

Thank you, students, for giving me the opportunity to be a part of your journey. Thank you Master Emerson, because of you this place if full of incredibly kind and talented people and I am so thankful for all that you have done Mr. Christian, thank you for giving me a chance even though I believe I did not deserve it, for being patient with all of my excuses for noting coming in and for the endless support through my journey. You have been an incredible teacher and are one of the people who has shaped who I am today. Mr. Brian, I am thankful for all the talks and hugs that we have had, I know that I would not have been able to go through my hardships without you. Owen, thank you for not only being my mentor, but also my best friend. It hasn’t just been these few months that you have helped me grown, you have helped me ever since I have joined the studio. Because of your guidance, I was able to become the leader I wanted to be. I’d like to congratulate Miles as well. It has been incredible to be on this adventure with you. A big reason I am where I am today is because you help push me along this path. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of both teen and black belt class. Classes with y’all have been so fun, and I would not want anyone else to have helped me along the way. Of course, I would like to thank my parents. Thank you for all of the rides here and back, the opportunity to come here and for the endless support that you have given me.

Thank you all for listening to a bit of my story this morning. I cannot talk enough about how much I love this community. It is impossible for me to describe how much I love everyone here. I will be off to college in a few months and I don’t now how my experience here will play out there, but I am confident that the memories and abilities I have from this will be with me no matter where I go. And I know when I come back to visit, this place will still give me the warm and heartfelt hugs that I receive today. Thank you so much EvolveAll for being a part of my life.

Confidence: Confidence is the foundation of success in all aspects of life. Our program is designed to instill unwavering self-assurance in our young members. Through mastering martial arts techniques, setting and achieving goals, and engaging in positive peer interactions, our students develop a sense of confidence that radiates through every facet of their lives.

Discipline: Martial arts demand discipline, and at EvolveAll, we make it fun and engaging. Our skilled instructors guide students through structured classes that teach the importance of discipline, focus, and dedication. These invaluable traits translate into improved academic performance and better decision-making skills.

Physical Fitness: We believe that a strong mind resides in a strong body. Our youth martial arts classes offer a fantastic opportunity for children and teenagers to stay active, improve their coordination, flexibility, and overall physical fitness in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Self-Defense: Safety is paramount in today’s world. Our program equips students with effective self-defense techniques, empowering them to protect themselves and others should the need arise. We foster a sense of awareness and teach practical skills that bolster confidence in challenging situations.

Community: At EvolveAll, we are more than just a martial arts studio; we are a community. We foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among our members, encouraging teamwork and mutual support. Lifelong friendships are forged here, and our inclusive atmosphere ensures that everyone feels welcome and valued.