The Canora air cadets were treated to a two-hour lesson in taekwondo basics from Master Matthew Bodnaryk, a fourth Dan (rank) black belt of Kee’s taekwondo at the Ukrainian Catholic Hall in Canora on October 18, said Capt. Darren Paul, commanding officer.
Bodnaryk taught the cadets basic blocks, punches, kicks and pressure points, all with the focus on self-defence. The main focus of the lesson was on protecting oneself from an attacker that initiates aggression, said Paul.
The cadets were specifically instructed that taekwondo is not a “strike first” discipline, but rather a defend yourself mentality.
“All cadets understood the concept and respected the master of the lesson, as they do to all their instructors,” said Paul.
Paul co-ordinated the class together with Bodnaryk.
“Kee’s taekwondo has been operating in Canora for a number of years and from observation, the cadet unit decided that this would be a good complement to the physical fitness aim of the cadet program,” said Paul.
“The class was such a resounding hit with the cadets that the squadron will continue to organize classes of introduction with Kee’s in order to create a good physical fun activity for the cadets to look forward to.”
The cadets who participated in the lesson were: F/Sgt. Joanne Babb, Sgt. Gracie Paul, F/Cpl. Tessa Spokes, LAC Gwen Osborne and AC Dawson Jennings.
Paul said the air cadet program is committed to developing in each and every cadet qualities of leadership and an aspiration to become a valued member of their community.
“We reinforce values necessary to prepare youth to meet the challenges of tomorrow and embrace multi-cultural Saskatchewan.
“To this end, we offer dynamic training in a supportive and efficient environment where change is a positive and essential element.
“We further commit to attaining this vision by living shared Canadian values with particular attention to: loyalty through the expression of our collective dedication to the ideals of the air cadet movement and to all its members; professionalism through the accomplishment of all tasks with pride and diligence; mutual respect by treating of others with dignity and equality; and integrity with the courage and commitment to exemplify trust, sincerity, and honesty.”
