My child has come so far and learned so much…
My name is Ally and my two children, Nicholas (13) and Mandy (6), have been training with Buck since the summer of 2011. It was right around this time that my oldest got diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, Sensory Disorder, and ADHD and I was looking for a way to help him and learn teamwork and discipline, as well as self-defense skills. Nicholas was a loud, tantrum-throwing, unfocused 9 year old when Buck and him started working together. In the 3.5 years that have passed, my child has come so far and learned so much. He has learned how to focus on a task at hand. How to take a punch as well as he can throw one. How to assist Master Buck is highest ranking student currently studying at the dojo. But most importantly, my son has learned how to believe in himself, and never give up.
Nicholas is only 3 months away from becoming a Junior Black Belt. He has mastered several forms, memorized countless oaths and rules and other verbal monologues for belt advancement, helped teach many of the younger, beginner students as they are just getting started on a road he’s already been down. I honestly feel none of this would have been possible if it hadn’t been for Buck’s patience, wisdom and unconditional love for my son. I find myself thanking him quite often for not letting Nick give up all those times he wanted to quit because it was getting challenging for him. Thanks for never giving up on him Buck.
As for my daughter, we don’t at this point notice any special needs but I will say she was Buck’s youngest student ever when she started and was the first one to officially graduate from Little Niinjas to the Kids’ Class (White Belt) by earning all the Ninja belts in the sequence. She loves going to class and is not afraid of anyone in it. I hope she continues to learn with Master Buck and hopefully incorporate what she’s learning now with any other sport she shows interest in over the next several years.
Buck is the kindest, most understanding instructor I’ve ever known. He truly cares about his students and takes a vested interest in their lives, as well as the lives of the parents. He has truly become a trusted friend. I honestly don’t know where he gets his patience. Thanks Buck. You’re the best!
