Testing is underway and off to a GREAT start! Our tests usually take two days to complete:
Day 1: During the week, at your normal class time.
Day 2: Saturday of that testing week at Goffstown Parks & Rec.
What to Wear & Bring
- Full Dobok/Uniform (clean and pressed).
- If you’re brand new and don’t have a uniform yet, please wear comfortable workout clothes.
- Students practicing sparring: bring full sparring gear for Saturday.
- All students: bring water and a sweat towel.
Saturday Schedule (September Testing)
- Kids Testing: 10:00 – 11:30 AM (arrive by 9:45 AM)
- Adults Testing: 12:00 – 1:30 PM (arrive by 11:45 AM)
(Note: originally times were reversed—thank you for your patience with the correction!)
There will not be a weapons class demo/mock testing this time. That will return in December testing.
Black Belt Help Requested
We have far more kids testing than adults/teens, so adult testing will likely run shorter. For kids testing, I would greatly appreciate help from our black belts to:
- Assist on the floor with safety and organization.
- Hold for breaking.
- (2nd Dan and up) Help with grading.
Please speak with me if you are available, otherwise I may reach out directly.
Thank you everyone for your hard work and dedication. Testing is not just about new belts, but about showing growth, focus, and perseverance. I wish each of you the very best of luck, and I look forward to seeing your progress on the floor.
About Korean Sijo Poetry
Sijo (pronounced shee-jo) is a traditional Korean poetic form dating back to the 14th century. It typically has three lines, each averaging 14–16 syllables (around 44–46 total). A sijo presents an idea in three movements:
- Introduction – Setting the scene or theme.
- Development – Expansion or complication of the thought.
- Conclusion – A twist, resolution, or reflection.
It balances structure with beauty, often weaving nature, philosophy, and human experience into simple yet profound expression. Below are some examples of Sijo poetry.
Sijo on Autumn
Golden leaves drift down the path, crisp winds whisper through tall pines.
The harvest moon crowns the sky, its silver glow bathing the fields.
Seasons bow and change their robes — autumn wears them with quiet grace.
Sijo on Testing and Achievement
Students bow and step with care, hearts steady as drums of courage.
Years of effort sharpen skills; sweat becomes a forge for will.
Belts may change, yet greater still — the spirit that learns to endure.