Martial Arts School Teaches Discipline and Self Confidence

John Dobosz is the owner of Old School Martial Arts Academy in Woodland. His 11 year old daughter Abigail looks like any other 11 year old who is shy and demure. But when she is wearing her martial arts robe, she becomes a different person. She practices her kicks with her father, along with other children during practice sessions that her father John teaches.

John said that his martial arts classes teach children self-confidence by knowing all the moves. Abigail said that she and her classmates can now defend themselves. The school opened last June and provides classes for adults and children every Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights. The space is fully carpeted with big windows to let natural light in.

Kari Chatwin enrolled her 10 year old daughter in the martial arts school as well. Her daughter Karlee said that she’s happy the school is close to their home. Kari said that she is happy that she doesn’t have to drive a long distance for her daughter’s lessons. She said that it is an antidote to the electronic world that has absorbed teenagers and pre-teens.

Kari hopes that her daughter will find other interests, aside from watching TV and the computer. She also hopes that her daughter will be more disciplined. Kari said that she believes her daughter is safe when participating in the class. She said jokingly that Karlee has more chances of getting hurt by her sisters.

John Dobosz is a chiropractor by professional and has an office in Longview. His home is in Kalama, where he resides with his wife Nanci and their eleven children. Seven of his children study martial arts. John started learning martial arts in 1999 and was immediately hooked to it. Before he received his black belt, he was already teaching classes.

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