Sports
Recent Grad Excels in Karate
Student studied at Hamilton High School during day, and learned Okinawan Karate in the evening
Each week, Menomonee Falls Patch and Sussex Patch will seek suggestions from readers for individual kids, youth groups, teens, and even sports teams that wow us with their accomplishments.
We want to hear about these amazing children and teens, and select one each week as the Patch Whiz Kid. Submit your nomination in our comment box below or e-mail the information to Editor Mark Maley.
This week's Whiz Kid
Who: Ian Johnson
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Schools: Hamilton High School and Okinawan Karate-Do and Kobudo Studio
Accomplishments: Johnson recently earned his purple belt in karate, after studying for three to five years total, including 1-1/2years with Sensei Brian K. Ounkham at Okinawan Karate-Do and Kobudo Studio.
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For the test, Johnson had to learn 12 katas, demonstrate sparring, bag work, and self defense techniques. Katas, also known as forms, are a sequence of movements against an imaginary adversary including blocks, strikes and kicks.
Johnson also studies kobudo (use of weapons). His favorite weapon to practice with is the sai. The three-pronged daggers are held each hand, and require hand dexterity and skill.
Key to Awesomeness: Johnson is planning to go to Marquette University in the fall to study political science and criminology. Following his undergraduate studies, he intends to attend law school.