ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - Nine contestants competed for the National Championship Title Oct. 3- to 5 in the National Martial Arts Competition at Mather Field. They were matched according to size and belt rank. This contest was held, according to Olympic rules. 

Five young students, ranging in age from 7 to 12 years, came away with trophies from their scores in Taekwondo form and fighting.

The winners had all taken instructions from Master David Weber, who owns Weber’s Martial Arts Academy here in Elk Grove. He conducts classes Monday-Thursday for kids, teens and adults. He also is assisted by two seasoned Taekwondo instructors. 

Formerly, Weber had a martial arts school in Cloverdale for 14 years. He said, “I even had one lady who started at age 93 and continued until she was 98.”

Students are gradually introduced to proper form, progress to light contact and then to self-defense. They can eventually learn board- and brick-breaking. To progress to the next rank, or belt, testing is handled according to the rules of the Kukkiwon Academy training.

 This facility is the only one in the area that uses the Kukkiwon Academy Training, which is a worldwide agency based in Korea with specific rules for receiving a certificate of credentials. This certificate can be presented at any training center to be accepted as a member.

Weber said, “I see growth in my students in self-confidence, self-discipline and respect for others.”

Dads and moms are pleased to see these qualities being inculcated in their children. However, parents are also concerned about safety for their children. Weber insists on proper conduct and gear, such as chest protectors, helmets, shin guards and mouthpieces.

There are separate classes according to students’ skills: beginners, white to red belt, black belt, a masters club, teen and adult sparring, private lessons and family groups. 

Advanced classes use staffs, nunchucks, swords, Kama, Escrima stick fighting and Tonfa. 

To get more information on classes, see webersmaa.com or call 707-671-2393. Weber’s Martial Arts Academy is at 9170 Elk-Grove-Florin Road, Suite G, Elk Grove.