Parents of the Month- February

Beginning in February we would like to highlight some of the amazing parents at USKA and recognize your commitment and dedication to helping your child become their best through the martial arts. Our goal is Black Belt, and some of you stand out for your persistence and your unwavering support of your child and their training!

This month we would like to recognize Mr. and Mrs. Gonzalez as our Parents of the Month. Their son, Alexander, has been training with USKA since he was a Tiny Tiger. He is now in our youth program and almost a Cho Dan Bo (Black Belt candidate). His parents attend every class, test and event that Alex participates in, and they are great at communicating with our staff to ensure that Alex is getting the most from his training. We are grateful to have them be a part of our USKA family! Please read the interview with Mr. Gonzalez below, he has some great advice for helping your child succeed!

USKA interview with Mr. Gonzalez:

Please tell us a little about yourself:

“I retired last October as a mediator of 10 years. I took this time to travel the world and met my wife, Tuyet, in Vietnam. I’m also retired from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of service as a JAGC. Man, am I getting old?? Mrs. Gonzalez has been very busy managing our family business of art manufacturing since we arrived in San Diego. What keeps us really busy is our son Alexander. He is the nucleus of our lives. Activities we enjoy are almost everything he wants to do. We just encourage his interests, with responsibility, limits, and many smiles, trying to teach him the best we can. Believe me, it’s a lot of fun because he is the one who teaches us during the course of his life.”

Why did you choose USKA and what do you love most about it? :

“I always wanted to practice karate but never had the opportunity or place to do so. But we are blessed to have our son be a proud future Black Belt and to be his best. USKA is close to Alexander’s school (The Rock Academy). We love the camaraderie among all the instructors and students, and it’s a very professional environment but in a relaxed way. Thank you to the USKA management and wise advice from Ms. Spears, and her eternal smile.”

Why do you think martial arts is important?:

“It teaches discipline, leadership and self-defense. Also it teaches how to avoid being bullied but in a noble way.”

What advice do you have for other parents/students to help them succeed at achieving Black Belt?

“Listen to your child and guide them to the best of your ability to benefit them in the future. Be present every time your child is trying to be the best of himself or herself. A good example is being present at USKA when your child is training, talk to them and LISTEN carefully.”

Mr. and Mrs. Gonzalez are excellent examples of engaged and dedicated parents. Be sure to get to know them when you see them at the studio!