Three years ago, Grace was hesitant to try martial arts. Then a shy 10-year old, she was friendly and respectful, but not keen on sports. Her parents insisted she at least give it a try.
“Our reasoning was to give her the tools to be a more confident young lady,” explained Grace’s mother, Marta. “She wasn’t thrilled about it, but I gave her no choice.”
When Grace learned how to flip a man twice her weight onto his back, she realized she was gaining the tools, both physically and mentally, to combat a potentially violent situation. And when she started high school, Grace used those tools on a boy who was trying to bully her. After consulting with her martial arts instructors, she established a plan to confront the boy and it worked, putting an end to his efforts to intimidate her.
“Grace’s teacher told us how proud she was and that she wished more young girls would do the same,” said Marta. “Bateson’s reinforced what my husband and I try to teach at home – treat others the way you want to be treated and think about how your words affect others.”
Today, Grace and her three brothers are all active at Bateson’s Martial Arts. They’ve learned Taekwondo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Grace, who was never interested in team sports, has gained the confidence to try field hockey, lacrosse and aerial silks.
“Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for the team at Bateson’s,” said Marta. “My husband and I sleep better at night knowing that our children have the tools to be amazing adults that will make a difference in this world.”
To find out how martial arts can help you, call Bateson’s for a free trial at 604-460-0046.
