In the world of martial arts, a Black Belt is often seen as the ultimate symbol of achievement. But for Tong Il Lo students, it’s far more than just a piece of colored fabric tied around the waist. It represents years of relentless dedication, unwavering commitment, and the successful conquest of grueling physical and mental challenges.
A Forge of Champions:
The path to a Tong Il Lo Black Belt is forged in the fires of rigorous training. Students endure an intricate curriculum that blends striking, grappling, and self-defense techniques from various disciplines. This unique blend demands not only physical prowess but also mental agility, adaptability, and unwavering focus.
Tests of Mettle:
Earning a Black Belt in Tong Il Lo is not just about mastering techniques. Students must prove their mettle through a series of challenging physical and mental tests. These tests push them to their limits, testing their endurance, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure. It’s a crucible that separates the dedicated from the determined, forging only the most exceptional individuals into true Tong Il Lo Black Belts.
A Privileged Few:
With over 10,000 students having graced the Tong Il Lo halls since its inception, only a select few have achieved the coveted Black Belt. Each name listed on this esteemed roster represents a testament to their unwavering dedication, indomitable spirit, and the unyielding pursuit of personal excellence. They are the embodiment of the Tong Il Lo ethos, inspiring future generations to walk the path of unity and self-mastery.
Beyond the Belt:
The Black Belt in Tong Il Lo is not the end of the journey, but rather a pivotal milestone. It marks the beginning of a new chapter, one where Black Belts become guardians of the knowledge they’ve earned. They take on the responsibility of mentoring others, guiding them through the same arduous path they once traversed. It’s a cycle of continuous learning and growth, ensuring that the legacy of Tong Il Lo lives on through generations of dedicated martial artists.
Tong Il Lo Black Belt Hall of Fame
Name | Rank | Date Earned |
---|---|---|
Grandmaster William McDonald | Founder | |
Chief Instructor Gilbert Narváez | Founder | Deceased |
Master Jeremy Wolfgang | 4th Degree | July 12, 2008 |
Jenilee Reid | 3rd Degree | Sept 18, 2005 |
Lee Wandel | 3rd Degree | May 9, 2009 |
Ken Young | 3rd Degree | May 9, 2009 |
Katie Connor | 3rd Degree | May 9, 2009 |
Chris Jakins | 3rd Degree | Aug 22, 2009 |
Brooke Bolliger | 3rd Degree | Aug 21, 2010 |
Starla Osburn | 3rd Degree | Nov 20, 2010 |
Andy Tewes | 2nd Degree | Dec 1, 1998 |
Blaise Brignac | 2nd Degree | Sept 18, 2005 |
Serena Fraze | 2nd Degree | July 6, 2007 |
Alisa Wojtaszek | 2nd Degree | Feb 23, 2008 |
Billy McCune | 2nd Degree | June 21, 2008 |
David Hernandez | 2nd Degree | Aug 21, 2010 |
Jaime Robinson | 1st Degree | Feb 6, 2000 |
Wendy Chanthasenh | 1st Degree | Sept 23, 2000 |
Matthew Tobey | 1st Degree | March 3, 2001 |
Brian Milligan | 1st Degree | March 3, 2001 |
Darrell Spinler | 1st Degree | Aug 25, 2001 |
Joe Carmack | 1st Degree | Aug 25, 2001 |
Parker Stockstill | 1st Degree | Aug 25, 2001 |
Colton Hogye | 1st Degree | Apr 21, 2002 |
Allen Mayo | 1st Degree | Nov 15, 2003 |
Phillip Lovett | 1st Degree | Nov 15, 2003 |
Brittani Lourias | 1st Degree | Aug 15, 2004 |
William Welch | 1st Degree | May 14, 2005 |
John Pizana | 1st Degree | May 14, 2005 |
Anthony Duchane | 1st Degree | May 14, 2005 |
Kevin Tewes | 1st Degree | May 6, 2006 |
Chris Pizana | 1st Degree | Oct 7, 2006 |
Sean Roozen | 1st Degree | Feb 23, 2008 |
Tom Wojtaszek | 1st Degree | Feb 23, 2008 |
Bill Casey | 1st Degree | Feb 23, 2008 |
Byron Hoskins | 1st Degree | Feb 23, 2008 |
Steven Jeffers | 1st Degree | Aug 22, 2009 |
Stephen Henry | 1st Degree | June 12, 2010 |
Doug Boggus | 1st Degree | June 12, 2010 |
Amanda Boggus | 1st Degree | June 12, 2010 |
Leta Mansfield | 1st Degree | June 25, 2011 |
Tilson Underwood | 1st Degree | June 25, 2011 |