Crouching Lion Tang Soo Do - Richmond, Vermont
In this article, we will be interviewing another studio of the Atlantic Pacific Tang Soo Do Federation. We took the time today to interview Mr. Gary Starecheski, owner and chief instructor of Crouching Lion Tang Soo Do, Richmond, Vermont!
Q: Good Afternoon Mr. Starecheski, thank you very much for taking the time today to answer some of my questions in regards to your philosophy and standpoint of your studio. Let's start with some backround information. When was Crouching Lion Tang Soo Do Started?
2003
Q: How would you sum up your studio’s philosophy or focus?
Respect is a cornerstone of my personal and Tang Soo Do philosophy. We practice respect for each other and for the art itself.
Q: How do you put this philosophy/focus into practice in your school? Alternately, give a "real life" example of when this philosophy/focus was put into practice with a positive result?
I work with kids a lot and have found that they respond best when treated with respect. Harsh discipline is not needed when students want to earn my respect. Part of this is accepting failure. Respect is maintained even when things don't go well.
Q: When did you join the Federation?
2016
Q: What has been the biggest benefit in joining the Federation?
It’s been great having the fellowship of martial artists dedicated to the advancement of Tang Soo Do as a traditional art. I've seen other organizations that seem to exist for the organization, not the practitioners.
Q: How many black belts do you have?
6
Q: How many non-black belt students do you have?
28
Q: For what ages do you have classes?
Age 6 to adult.
Q: Let's move on to what makes Crouching Lion Tang Soo Do stand out from others in your area. How do you make martial arts beneficial to modern individuals and families?
Today's world is full of distractions and information overload. It can be hard to know where to focus energy and attention to achieve a balanced, fulfilling and enjoyable life. Tang Soo Do training provides the tools for that achievement
Q: Why should someone choose your studio for their martial arts training?
We combine the best of traditional training methods with current knowledge in a comfortable and challenging environment. Kids and grown-ups have great fun and learn the benefits of setting and achieving goals through hard work.
Q: What is your vision for your school’s future?
We are starting an instructor/leadership training program that will diversify our instruction and make the benefits of TSD more widely available. We also plan to move into the area of wellness through the new Healing Warrior program.
Thank you very much Mr. Starecheski for your time today as well as your dedication and perseverance in teaching the martial arts to better the lives of others! Tang Soo!!
Testimonials from Crouching Lion Tang Soo Do students:
Dan
“Tang Soo Do has been a great way to connect with my daughter. We joined at the same time and we go to classes, practice, compete and earn our belts together. It is a great way to build strength, and confidence, but it is also a moving meditation and it helps one to learn how to quiet the mind. I find I access what I learn and practice in Tang Soo all the time in my daily life. Gary Starcheski is an excellent teacher to both kids and adults. He is patient and very skilled at what he does. He is a great role model for all of his students!”
Liv, Age 7
“I like Tang Soo Do because I like to do push-ups and sit-ups. I also like it because I like learning new things from my instructor!”
Tamara
“I am the parent of two boys who moved from White Belt to Black Belt with Instructor Starecheski at Crouching Lion Tang Soo Do. I witnessed how my boys developed focus, self esteem and indomitable spirit through their years of martial arts training. My eldest son asked me to try Tang myself and I followed his advice that Tang is not "an exercise" but a "lifestyle choice". I continue to work at the DoJang after both of my boys have graduated and moved on to college. As a family, we had no idea how incredibly important Tang Soo Do would become in our lives -- Tang Soo Do helps all of us in so many ways it is incalculable.”
Emmett, Age 7
“It is fun and makes my body strong!”
Braeden
“I take Tang Soo Do alongside my five year old daughter. I enjoy the challenge of learning an ancient art and leave each class feeling invigorated and more confident. I especially like setting an example for my young daughters.”