Keichu-Do is an American martial art composed of karate, grappling, jiu-jitsu, and self defense—very serious stuff. Yet local youngling Jesse DeBone, age 12, has taken to it like a fish to water.
“I hope to do it my whole life and will try to make a career out of it,” DeBone said.
Although he’s new to Keichu-Do, DeBone is on track to earn his yellow
belt in February and hopes to earn his black belt by the time he’s 16 or 17. He’s well aware that hard work and dedication pay off.
DeBone attends the CKD Academy of Martial Arts two times a week, and the lessons have already spurred some positive results.
“It helps my concentration and gives me a lot more patience,” he said.
Despite his burgeoning fists of fury, DeBone remains as happy as any other 12-year-old.
“I’m serious when it’s time to be serious, but I also have a lot of fun,” he said.
His older brother might want to think twice the next time they fight over the last cookie in the cupboard.
This article appears in Dec 23-30, 2010.
