Rod's International Martial Arts News/Activities

Innerschool Tournament February 2008

Shim Myung Do students competed against each other in forms and sparring at the 2008 Innerschool Tournament held in the Kendall school. 
Below are a few pictures of the action and the accolades!

Black Belts Turn Out for First Reunion

Though it was after very short notice, the First Black Belt Reunion for Shim Myung Do had a strong turnout.  Students who earned their Black Belts more than 10 years ago as well those that just recently became members of that elite group came for a friendly workout and to catch up on old times. 

Black Belt Test December, 2005

The winter 2005 Black Belt test was a spectalar event.  Unfortunately, the pictures do not do the students justice, as the lighting was a bit dark to capture the excitement of the day.  The most memorable of the performances was turned in by a group of senior black belts in a dynamic and fast-paced exhibition.  Click here to see the Extreme Team demonstration video clip (depending on your connection speed, it may take a several minutes to load).

Unfortunately, the lighting on stage was a little dark and the pictures didn't turn out too well.  Here are a few that turned out okay.

Staff Visits New York School

In July, 2005 the staff and instructors from Rod's International Martial Arts visited Holley's Internataional Martial Arts, a Shim Myung Do School located in Jackson Heights, New York.  Instructors and office staff compared notes on new teaching methods, motivational techniques as well as how to improve office procedures.  Representatives from both schools worked out and trained together at the Flushing Meadow Park (pictured below with the Globe sculpture).  While there, some of Master Paul Holley's students tested for their black belts with Master Rod, Master Paul and Master Leo evaluating their skills.  The trip brought the two schools closer together and, hopefully, provided some inspiration to all involved.  But it wasn't all work; the group visited Chinatown, and then stopped in to visit former Rod's instructor Alain German in New London, Connecticut.  Alain plans to open a Shim Myung Do school in his area soon.

Spring 2005 Black Belt Spectacular

The Spring, 2005 Black Belt ceremony was held in the auditorium of Felix Varela High School.  What most people don't realize is that the ceremony is only the final phase of a week-long test during which students must demonstrate that they are indeed prepared to be black belts.  This involves complete knowledge of all kicking, punching and blocking skills, forms, hap ki do, and drills, as well as the ability to help lower belts and assist in teaching of all belt levels.  Below are some snapshots of the inter-week testing, followed by highlights from the ceremony.  Congratulations to all the new black belts, as well as those black belts testing for tips.  Great Job!

Sometimes it can be very tiring, but is is definitely worth it!

Here are some shots from the show:

High School Graduation 2005

Our heart-felt congratulations to all of Rod's International students graduating from high school this year.  We are pleased to hear of the exciting college plans for many, and will miss the ones moving to other parts of the country to continue their education.  Here are three graduates of Felix Varela Senior High School including Master Rod's son Sebastian, pictured in the middle with his grandmother and brothers.

Miami Herald Highlights Rod's International

The Miami Herald featured an article about the school in its Neighbor's section on March 6, 2004.  Click here to see the story!

Black Belt Test A Resounding Success!

Congratulations to the students who tested at the Black Belt Test in November, 2004: Marcele Vieira, Melissa Guzman, Caroline Chen, Ryan Chen, Stefania Carmona, Aaron Fiallos, Brianna Erne and Alex Gutierrez.  Not only did many students earn their black belts for the first time, but a large number of black belts earned tips or advanced to the next dan level.  Here are some pictures to commemorate the event:

Students Represent Rod's at CL Championship

Congratulations to Gabriel Moreno, Maurice Moreno and Matthew Morales for their participation in the CL Championship held at the University of Miami on May 1, 2004.   In spite of strong competition, the students came home winners.   Maurice placed third in sparring in his category, while Matthew won 3rd place in both forms and sparring.  Great job guys!

In The News

Palmetto Bay Community News recently wrote about Rod's International.  Click on the banner below to see the whole story!

In Memory of Grand Master Pong Ki Kim