MASTER
Announcements
Congratulations to our Newest Color Belts!
Congratulations to the following students who belt tested in November:
Alex Blackstone - Promotion to Yellow Belt
Landon Briggs - Promotion to Yellow Belt
Lucas Moore - Promotion to Yellow Belt
Abigail Shovlin - Promotion to Yellow Belt
Dax Dixon - Promotion to Orange Belt
Silas Wayman - Promotion to Orange Belt
Jerry Shovlin - Promotion to Green Belt
Robby Carlton - Promotion to Purple Belt
DD McCarthy - Promotion to Purple Belt
Caleb Moore - Promotion to Purple Belt
Lucas Myers - Promotion to Hi-Brown Belt
Logan Twigg - Promotion to Hi-Brown Belt
Erika McCarthy - Promotion to Provisional Black Belt
Closed for Winter Break
December 23rd – January 4th
We will be closed from the last week of December through the first week of January to allow our staff a well-deserved break to enjoy time with their loved ones during the holiday season. During this period, there will be no Tae Kwon Do, Tiny Ninjas, or Cardio Kickboxing classes. All classes will resume as usual starting the week of January 5th. Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season!
Meet Master Tom Thornton!
Position: Owner/Head Instructor
Rank: 3rd Dan Black Belt
About Master Tom:
Master Tom began his Tae Kwon Do journey with TTKD in 2015, training under the guidance of Master Paul Mittan. He became an assistant instructor upon earning his red belt and achieved his 1st Dan black belt in February 2019. In April 2020, Master Tom took ownership of TTKD from Master Paul. Shortly after, he faced the challenge of adapting to the COVID-19 lockdowns. Demonstrating resilience and innovation, he developed new teaching methods to continue Tae Kwon Do instruction outside the traditional dojang setting. Through online classes via Zoom, Facebook Live events, and outdoor sessions in the park, Master Tom ensured TTKD thrived during the pandemic.
In July 2020, he earned his 2nd Dan black belt, followed by his 3rd Dan black belt in August 2024, marking a significant milestone in his martial arts career.
An accomplished competitor, Master Tom has participated in numerous tournaments, consistently earning top placements in forms, breaking, and sparring events.
Responsibilities:
Master Tom is responsible for the day-to-day operations at TTKD. He overseas and administers accounting, billing, payroll, class programming, special events, instructor training, etc.
Personal Interests:
Master Tom’s passions extend beyond Tae Kwon Do. He cherishes spending time with friends and family and has a love for coaching and playing basketball. Currently, he serves as the Vice President and Technology Coordinator for the Athens Wildcats Youth Basketball Association (AWYBA). Professionally, he works as the Education Coordinator for the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). In addition to his roles, Master Tom enjoys creative pursuits like graphic and web design.
Junior Instructor Program
3rd Session - Teaching Fundamentals
Wednesday, December 11th @ 5:15 PM
During this session we will explore strategies for teaching a drill:
- Review observing and analyzing classes
- Structuring a class session
- Effective demonstration techniques
Homework for this session: Design and submit a detailed lesson plan for a 15-minute class segment. Your lesson can be on any topic you prefer (forms, kicking techniques, agility drills, sparring, etc.). Register via the event link from Kicksite in your email. If you didn’t get a link, please see Master Tom.
Tae Kwon Do Video Tutorials
Did you know we offer tutorial videos to support your training? These videos cover practicing forms, 1-steps, and belt tying, all from the comfort of your home. Simply visit the Media Library in your Kicksite account to access them.
The Media Library also features additional resources, such as the TTKD Student Handbook and Belt Test Requirement sheets. To find it, navigate to the left toolbar in your Kicksite account.
Tuition Reminder
Please remember monthly tuition is due by the first class of the month. Tuition received after the 10th calendar day is subject to a $25 late fee. Payments can be made on the TTKD website or directly in you Kicksite account. If you don’t have an invoice on your account, please see Master Tom.
Other Classes
Black Belt Class
Monday, December 2nd
These classes are once a month and open to all black belt and provisional black belt students at no additional charge. This class focuses on advanced techniques, black belt forms, instructor training, and black belt philosophy.
Weapons Class
No Weapons Class This Month
This class is once a month and open to all students, blue belt and up, at no additional charge.
If you have your own weapon(s), you are welcome to bring them to this class to practice with. We have nunchucks, Arnis sticks, and bo staffs available for anyone that doesn’t have their own weapon.
Testing
Make-up Test for those affected by the winter storm
Friday, December 13th
This month’s testing will take place on Friday, December 13th, starting promptly at 5:30 PM. The doors will open at 5:00 PM. Please plan to arrive early enough to stretch, warm up, and review your forms and one-steps. Note that stretching and warming up are not part of the test itself.
All students will receive email notifications at least one week in advance and must register through their Kicksite account. Test fees are due by Thursday, December 12th and must be paid before the test begins.
White TTKD uniform and belt are required
NO T-SHIRTS! NO COLORED PANTS!
Tournaments
Workshops & Special Events
Student Picture Day
Thursday, January 9th
Picture day is just around the corner! We encourage all students to participate so they can be featured on our annual class poster.
No purchase is necessary to be included on the poster. However, representatives from Action Hero Photography will be available during the event to answer any questions about their photo package options.
Sign-up sheets for specific time slots and price guides are posted on the office door.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Master Tom.
Parents Night Out
Friday, December 20th, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Open to students and their friends, ages 5-13! Join us for an evening of fun, featuring games, a movie, and delicious snacks. We’ll provide pizza, popcorn, and water. This month’s movie is Santa Claus is Coming to Town (G). Space is limited to the first 30 registrants, so be sure to pre-register to secure your spot!
Private Lesson/Workshop/Party
Our private sessions are tailored to suit your needs, providing personalized instruction in a dynamic and engaging environment.
Options to Consider:
- Tae Kwon Do Lessons: Perfect for beginners and advanced practitioners alike. Learn traditional techniques, build discipline, and improve fitness.
- Self-Defense Workshops: Empower yourself with practical skills and strategies to stay safe and confident in real-world situations.
- Birthday Parties: Celebrate with a unique and action-packed event that blends fun and fitness. Includes games, activities, and a demonstration tailored to your group.
Contact us today to discuss your goals, schedule, and pricing. Let’s create an unforgettable experience!
Calendar of Events
