International Black Belt Center of Virginia

Testimonials

"SINCERE THANKS TO THE STUDENTS WHO SUBMITTED THE KIND WORDS BELOW..."

- Kyosah-Nim James & Kyosah-Nim Virginia

Master Kwon's style of traditional, non-contact taekwondo has been a wonderful discovery. At 52, after 45 years of playing basketball, I could hardly walk after playing and couldn't touch my toes. Now, after two years of taekwondo I can put my palms on the floor and am feeling much more fit and flexible. Taekwondo addresses all aspects of fitness: strength, flexibility, and aerobics. Further, I've never had a class where we didn't do something new; the variety is incredible!

The principles of taekwondo - courtesy, integrity, self-control, perseverance, and indomitable will - are evident every day in the do-jang (training hall). There is a big irony in taekwondo because although the techniques are designed to bring a fight to a quick resolution, we never strike one another and injuries are very rare. My wife, one daughter, son, and I all practice together and have made many new friends at IBBCV. With as many as five class options a day, you can come when your schedule permits.

A great workout, mental discipline, social courtesy, humor, intensity, new friends of all ages, and self confidence...you can get them all at IBBCV.

- James Clawson, Professor of Business Administration

"I have practiced many sports but none, other than Taekwon-Do, have had so much impact on the way I work and the way I live my life by providing me with an activity that is both physically and mentally challenging. Taekwon-Do has enabled me to stand back from my work thereby providing me with the strength to follow my intuition. The Hamricks offer great teaching and talent but just as important to me is the fact that the school encourages unity among the students. Virginia and James Hamrick, in that respect and in all other respects, do a great job for which I am very thankful."

- Claude Dussaud, Money Management

"I never thought I would be able to stick to any exercise program but here I am over 2 years later still training, improving my strength and hoping to do more. I recommend this to anyone regardless of physical ability."

- Kathy Burns, Cytogenetic Technologist

"When my son came to me three and a half years ago asking to take Taekwon-Do, I must admit I wasn't sure martial arts was something I wanted to encourage. I guess I envisioned a school full of little ninja wannabes with uncaring instructors barking orders and rewarding aggressive behaviors (the same behaviors my husband and I were working hard to discourage). Then a friend told us about the International Black Belt Center. On their advice I took my son for a trial class. I was happily surprised by what I found there.

The IBBCV turned out to be a bright, open and cheerful school. Instruction included not only the merits of a healthy body, but the merits of a healthy mind as well. The curriculum stressed the importance of being part of a family and part of a community but also the importance of relying on yourself and standing as an individual. The owners/instructors, James and Virginia Hamrick were nothing like the cold, unfeeling Black Belts I had imagined. they were friendly, helpful, and nurturing to their students. I knew after the first few classes that Taekwon-Do was something I wanted my family involved in. Today, my son, my daughter and I all train at the IBBCV.

I am pleased to say that if anything, Taekwon-Do has helped my children be less aggressive. they have learned that although they may be strong enough to solve conflicts with physical contact, they are also compassionate enough, confident enough, and in control enough to choose to solve them without it. this is the lesson the IBBCV has helped me teach my children and it is something that will be with them for the rest of their lives."

-Beverly Rakes

"During my time here at the International Black Belt Center, I have gained confidence in myself. The instructors are nice and patient with me and are great instructors. I highly recommend this center to anyone interested in doing Taekwon-Do."
- Pat Choloski, Nurse

"The IBBCV has made a real difference in our lives: Taekwon-Do at the IBBCV is fun. In addition, by improving the fitness and flexibility of our 50-something bodies, we can now cross-country ski, ice skate and mountain bike, too.

Our family enjoys Taekwon-Do as a family hobby, despite our varying physical abilities. Working together, sharing challenges as well as successes has nurtured the respect and support we feel for each other. The family atmosphere of IBBCV fosters diversity, tolerance and community involvement. At IBBCV, we have made friends and relationships with people from all kinds of businesses, religions, schools and professions... friends we would never have met except for IBBCV.

IBBCV has been good for our health, from recovering from a serious illness to improving mental acuity and relieving many of the usual aches and pains of age. IBBCV is much more than a martial arts school. Through a unique combination of professionalism, intelligence and discipline, Kyosah-Nims James and Virginia Hamrick have made IBBCV a family and a way of life."
- Alexis Crow, Attorney
- Bill McCoy, Pharmacist

"I have been practicing Taekwon-Do for four years and have found it to be fantastic exercise and stress-relief. It exercises the mind as well as the bocy and one never gets bored. Its lessons apply equally well to the rest of my life."
- Joel Trugman, Neurologist

"A friend of mine, who I admire and respect, came to my house about two years ago with some home-made beer (to this day I believe it was an excuse to talk to me about the benefits of Taekwon-Do). He gave me a brochure and other literature about IBBCV in Charlottesville, VA.

At the time I was sitting in my favorite chair watching TV. I took his literature and read every word. Soon I was going to turn 46 years old and it occurred to me that I was feeling the effects of getting older... or becoming very out of shape. I was tired and becoming sedimentary. My feelings of alertness were beginning to wane. It made me tired (and out of breath) just to walk up the stairs. Mowing the lawn made me out of breath and wheeze. It was becoming too easy to pull a muscle doing minor physical activities.

It's been exactly 18 months since I walked into the IBBCV and purchased my uniform and paid the initial "pre-conditioning" tuition. I believe it was some of the best money I have ever spent. Today, I'm still tired, but it's because I can work harder and longer. My muscles need to stretch and move more frequently. Sitting isn't fun anymore. I can run up the stairs (I prefer to do that now) and don't breathe any differently than when just walking around the house. Now, mowing makes me sneeze, not wheeze. I can play tennis or attend the regular adult Taekwon-Do classes without "collapsing" afterwards. I have a greater feeling of self-confidence and mental strength.

I thank Kyosah-Nim Virginia and Kyosah-Nim James who not only are experts in Taekwon-Do, but are experts at balancing a nurturing and educational environment with the necessary rigor and discipline of the martial art. Their students hold them in highest regard and respond to their teaching. This is evident by the numerous accomplishments of their students and their cohesive school filled with dedicated and responsive students."

- Anonymous, Elementary School Assistant Principal

"I enjoy the conditioning and the challenge of Taekwon-Do. It has been a great stress reliever for me--a form of "active meditation".
- Ted Bartleski, State Farm Insurance Agent

"At the age of eight (I'm now 17), I began studying Taekwon-Do, and after having encountered several instructors and trained in three schools, I am confident the IBBCV is the best. Kyosah-Nims James and Virginia not only teach the physical techniques very well, they also strongly emphasize the tenets of Taekwon-Do - courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable will. By constantly living these tenets every day, our Kyosah-Nims have instilled in this school a spirit of hard work, respect, and camaraderie.

Differences laid aside, each student tries 100%, and holds hope for every other student. When one student achieves a goal or medal, everyone else is happy for him. Each student works hard, striving only to better himself. This is what a martial art is meant to be. As living examples of Taekwon-Do, the Hamricks have created an almost-ideal martial arts school, and I am grateful to them for that."

-Ruel

"I started in September 1997 at the age of 51 and find myself "into it" far beyond what I would have predicted. I have loved playing and coaching team sports all my life. As I have gotten older and busier in my job, it has become more difficult to find a group of people to compete with in team sports. I had never had any exposure to martial arts, but I began Taekwon-Do because I was feeling desperate for a way to get a good workout on a regular basis, and I have a colleague who persistently urged me to try it.

Doing Taekwon-Do at the IBBCV has been a wonderful experience. I try to make at least 5 classes a week, which is facilitated by their schedule of having several classes a day at different times. The experience has had many positive aspects for me including: Strenuous workouts that involve aerobics and stretching and that require more varied muscles than any sport I've ever played. Biggest surprise has been the mental aspects; the hour I train requires me to try to completely focus my mind, so I forget about the problems and concerns of my job. That means I return to work refreshed and renewed with a healthier perspective. Continual challenge... there's always ways to improve. Each class seems unique; there seems to always be new techniques, so that it is never boring.

Kyosah-Nim James and Virginia are just outstanding; they complement each other nicely; they are able to get me to push myself beyond what I could ever do on my own. The atmosphere of the instructors and other students is caring and supportive; I've met a whole different set of really nice people."

- James R. Freeland, Associate Dean for Faculty and Sponsors Professor of Business Administration, UVA

"I have been a "jock" all my life playing handball, basketball, and baseball. If anyone had told me that I would some day take up a sport that has no ball in it, doesn't keep score, and at the end of the day you don't know whether you've won or lost, I would have called them crazy.

I started Taekwon-Do at age 45. It's the best thing I've ever done. It's the best workout, the best discipline, and the best way to focus mind and body. It has made me a better parent, spouse, and teacher. Our whole family trains at the IBBCV. It has become a kind of second home for us. The other students are supportive, positive, and represent a wonderful cross-section of good people in our community.

I have been privileged to have many outstanding teachers in my life, and the Hamricks are at the top of the list. They allow you to see your potential and they guide you to fulfill it. They embody the humility and inner strength that Taekwon-Do professes. It is truly an honor to study with them."

- R. Edward Freeman, Olsson Professor of Business Administration and Director of the Olsson Center for Ethics, UVA.

"I have trained at the IBBCV since August 1993. I was introduced to Taekwon-Do in 1975 and have been hooked ever since. Through the years, I have attended numerous schools in many different cities and I have found the IBBCV to be an excellent school to train in for all ages and abilities. Kyosah-Nim James and Virginia compliment each other in their teaching styles. They work together to develop a students' mental and physical strength in a positive learning environment.

The tenets of Taekwon-Do are exemplified through the instructors and stressed to the students. The variety and number of classes offered per week at the IBBCV is unparalleled in the martial arts community. There are classes for "Mighty Mite", "Pee Wees", "Youth", "Adults", and for "Pre-conditioning". As an adult, working a minimum of 40 hours per week outside of Charlottesville, it offers me several opportunities to train per week.

The health benefits are numerous, the classes are highly aerobic and focus on flexibility, stamina and mental focus. The Kyosah-Nims allow a student to work at his/her own level of strength and ability while encouraging self-improvement.

The IBBCV offers a preconditioning class which allows continued light training while recovering from an injury or lapse in training. This is a great alternative to forfeiting training. Taekwon-Do exercises the entire body and the mind.

The training environment at the IBBCV is friendly and sociable, yet has the discipline required of a martial art. I highly recommend it."

- Andy Hight, Engineer

"As a student at the IBBCV, I have been enlightened by the enormous physical, mental and spiritual benefits to participating in a martial art. Through regular Taekwon-Do training, I have begun the process of developing muscular-skeletal strength and flexibility I truly never knew existed in me. This confidence in my physical being has changed the way in which I walk through life, head held high with a sense of well-being. the concentration, accuracy and speed components of Taekwon-Do training has helped me to handle various daily tasks and obstacles with a clear mental focus; therefore, leaving me with a feeling of being more productive and less overwhelmed. Most importantly, my sense of self-spirit has risen to an all time high.

The IBBCV instructors, Kyosah-Nim James and Virginia Hamrick, are wonderful role models of this indomitable spirit. The students at the IBBCV, all working toward a common goal in a friendly atmosphere, display courtesy, integrity, perseverance and self-control. The IBBCV offers an opportunity for people of all ages to train in Taekwon-Do and form lasting friendships."

- Christine Lane, Dental Hygienist

"Training at the IBBCV is the most positive change I've made in my life in years. I am healthier physically and mentally than I was 20 years ago. Our fellow students are not only supportive, but quickly became our great friends. And our instructors offer the perfect balance of encouragement, challenge--and fun--to help us reach our highest potential."
- Kay Laurick, Insurance Agent

"I have always been involved in some sort of physical activity from grade school through college. When I moved to Virginia six months ago, I worried about finding something that would keep me both interested and in shape. I was interested in the martial arts, but I was scared to try something so new.

However, joining the IBBCV is one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only have I found something that keeps me interested and in shape, but I feel motivated, proud, and anxious to learn more. I don't think I would feel this way about anything else, or even at another Taekwon-Do school. From the moment I walked in, the other students have been helpful and friendly, and the instructors are wonderful, both as trainers and as people. I am amazed at their ability to be effective teachers to children and adults, women and men, white belts and red belts.

So, thanks to the IBBCV, I am not only in great shape, but I have found something that I want to be a part of my life for a long time to come."

- Susan Manning, Graduate Student, UVA

"I was tutored privately for my education during high school. As a result, I needed extra-curricular activities to meet people, and learn more about myself. I found both of these and much more at the IBBCV. Taekwon-Do is a great sport, especially non-contact style, because you are learning a skill that is very useful, the atmosphere is that of friendship and support, and you're always gaining more self-confidence. Of all the sports I do, this is the greatest."

- Maggie McCoy, College Student

"You wouldn't think that Taekwon-Do would be the choice of exercise for a middle-aged woman dealing with two breast cancers in one year, but it has been one of my better choices. I tried to take classes three times a week throughout my radiation treatments, and I believe I had much more energy and a much quicker recovery than most. More importantly, I feel that for me it continues to be the most effective way of dealing with the ongoing stress that comes with having a life-threatening disease. The constant challenge of learning more difficult movements and improving on those skills I've already learned make me forget all about the cancer. I feel stronger and healthier than I did before I became ill."

- Nancy Mills

"The IBBCV has brought a lot more into my life than self-defense techniques. When I came to this school, I was in the midst of a divorce, a job transfer, a pile of anxieties that kept me from eating and sleeping well, and my health was paying the price for the stress. Through the training offered here, I have learned to take better control of myself both emotionally and physically.

The positive outlook found here has helped my career steady itself, given me a new sense of self-worth, and shown me how to overcome stress and anxiety - while the physical benefits have left me stronger and more limber than can ever recall being.

At the IBBCV, I have had the opportunity to train with people from many different backgrounds and careers, as well as experts and masters from other countries, but there are five things we all have in common: courtesy, integrity perseverance, self-control, and indomitable will, all tenets of this Taekwon-Do school.

I can honestly call all the students here friends, or perhaps more like family. The respect and gratitude I have for my teachers can not be expressed in words and is something I can never fully repay. They give their all everyday to help others. I could imagine my life without the IBBCV, but I'm certainly glad I live my life with it. The support, values, and lessons learned here have given me a fuller and more rewarding lifestyle. Everything worthwhile is found within."

- Scott Nelson, Supermarket Produce Manager

"The IBBCV is a great experience. I enjoy the workout and now I feel like I can walk on the streets and know that if something was to happen, I can protect myself. The environment at the IBBCV is great. Everyone is friendly and helpful."

- Anonymous, High school student

"Beginning Taekwon-Do was a big step for me. With no previous "body discipline", I felt very unsure of myself. Everyone in the class is very encouraging. The best part are the instructors! This is the best thing I've ever done for myself."

- S. Lynn Price

"I have fully enjoyed my year in this class. I joined for the exercise after being bored with my previous exercise class. I was ready for a change. This certainly was the change I was looking for...and more! The instructors are very well qualified. They are the greatest. I'm looking forward to many more years. Everyone here is extra nice. I love Taekwon-Do.

- Barbara Shifflett, Administrative Assistant, Resorts

"I began taking Taekwon-Do in early December of 1997 at the IBBCV, as a way to get regular exercise. I sit at my job, and I find the total body workout and stretching of Taekwon-Do to be very invigorating. Instructors James & Virginia seem particularly well suited to teach martial arts. They know how to get the most out of a student, while being genuinely concerned for each individual. I feel lucky to have found here in Charlottesville, a martial arts school where teachers and students have such a positive "you can do it" attitude."

- Mike D'Antoni, Music Instructor

"Taekwon-Do is a great way to relieve stress, gain endurance and a better ability to focus. It is the only form of exercise that I truly enjoy and have stuck with."

- Penny Shockley, Social Worker

"I like Taekwon-Do because I get to see my friends. I also like Taekwon-Do because it makes me strong."

- Rory

"Hi. My name is Ashley. I am a fourth grade student. I have been doing Taekwon-Do for 2 years and I have just received my yellow belt. I think it is fun and good exercise."

- Ashley

"It's great fun and great exercise...And use it only for defense."
- Devin

"I think Taekwon-Do is a great experience for young people, and it helps you get stronger for all sports."

- Brandon

"All my life, I've been the shortest student in my class, which in the typical elementary school scenario, would make me a good target for bullying. I hated it. Later on I switched schools, but even so, I was still somewhat subject to bullying.

At the new school, however, I met three students who each took Taekwon-Do at the IBBCV. I thought it sounded like a good way to learn to fight back. Never once did I think about self-control. Only when I started Taekwon-Do did I learn about self-control, along with courtesy, integrity, perseverance and indomitable will. I also learned how to defend myself when there was no chance of being able to run away.

Taekwon-Do has been a good experience for me and has taught me much about how to defend myself, self-control and honesty. I highly recommend Taekwon-Do to anyone who has lived his/her life in the basic scenario, to anyone who likes exercise, or anyone who just wants something exhilarating to do after school."

- Jesse

"Breaking boards is fun! All the helpers and the Kyosah-Nims are nice!"

- Daniel

"What I like most about Taekwon-Do is learning forms, jump side kick on the bag, and my teachers because they are nice and they make learning forms and techniques fun! I also like when we get to break wood, it is fun too!"

- Chloe

"I think Taekwon-Do is kind of challenging and fun. It's strenuous. We do things that kill my muscles. I like learning this martial art."

- Angus

"I like Taekwon-Do because you get to kick a big bag."

- Cody

"For a strong mind and a strong body, take Taekwon-Do."

- Greg

"Since I have been in Taekwon-Do, I have learned to control myself and that 'I can do anything!'. I have also learned to obey my parents. I am really glad I joined. I have had many problems but Taekwon-Do helped. I learned self-defense by listening, practicing and learning!"

- Jessica

"I think Taekwon-Do is great because you learn to have a strong mind and to learn to beat off bad guys, but also have courtesy. You get stronger and used to doing 1,000 pushups a day. I think Taekwon-Do is greeeeeaaaat!!!"

- Jessica

"It's hard work, good exercise, and most of all, Taekwon-Do is fun!"

- Kyle

"I have been taking Taekwon-Do for three and a half years. I like Taekwon-Do because it teaches not only self defense, but self discipline. It also teaches you things you use in everyday life, like how to be courteous, how to have a strong mind, to be honest and to never give up. Kyosah-Nim James and Virginia are great teachers. The thing I really want to stress is that it's a lot of work, but it's also a lot of fun."

- John