From anxiety to noble decisions
For the past two years, at the small corner of Can Tho School for the Gifted, martial artist Phan Quang Thuan (68 years old) - Chairman of Thai Cuc Dao Club - has been quietly teaching martial arts for free to "special" students.
As an experienced martial artist, having taught and competed for many years, martial artist Thuan clearly understands the value of martial arts to human health and spirit. When he realized that disabled students at Can Tho School for the Gifted were vulnerable to bullying when integrating into society, he cherished the idea of opening a free martial arts class.
Articulture not only helps children practice physical exercise, but also helps them increase flexibility, patience and especially increase confidence in life. In particular, because they are deaf and hard of hearing, they are easily bullied when going out in society, I hope they can defend themselves and fight back when things don't happen often," said martial artist Thuan.
In 2023, the class officially opened right on the school campus and taught every Tuesday and Thursday. Martial artist Thuan chose to teach Taekwon-only because of the ITF - a school he believes has stronger and more effective attacks.
The journey to overcome difficulties with special students
At first, the class attracted nearly 60 students, most of whom were deaf, hyperactive, or have physical disabilities. Up to now, although the number of students is about 14 because some have graduated or are not strong enough to pursue, the fire continues to burn.
Teaching martial arts to normal children is already a challenge, but for children with disabilities, that challenge is multiplied. They have difficulty moving, listening, learning slowly and often lack confidence - these are barriers that seem insurmountable.
However, with a rare love for the profession and patience, martial artist Thuan has found his own way to accompany the students. He proactively learned basic sign language from the school's teachers, and designed exercises that were suitable for each student's physical condition and ability.
"At first, teaching was very difficult, not knowing how to teach the children martial arts. Slowly, I asked the school's teachers to only use some sign language to guide them. I even instructed them many times so that they could grasp new martial arts skills, said martial artist Thuan.
Spread joy and confidence
Currently, the class is also accompanied by two volunteers, along with martial artist Thuan, creating a warm and professional training environment. The class not only teaches martial arts techniques but also helps children practice discipline, solidarity and the will to overcome difficulties. In addition to martial arts classes, martial artist Thuan also spent time encouraging and talking with the children, helping them understand that just need to persevere, everything can be overcome.
Seeing them happily practicing and having more motivation to strive, I feel very happy. That is the motivation for me to continue to maintain this class, said martial artist Thuan.
The martial arts master's efforts have brought sweet fruits. Many students after a period of studying have increased their grades from white to green and brown.
Through the letters, Tran Minh Long (grade 8) shared: Before studying in the martial arts class, walking on the stomach was very difficult for me, my weak hands were difficult to hold. After studying for a while, my health has improved day by day, my arms and legs are firmer, and I can walk more boldly than before. This class is meaningful to me.
Phan Thi Kim Phung (8th grade student) happily said: Just attending Mr. Thuans martial arts class makes me very happy. The tour guide is very enthusiastic, the students are very sociable. After studying for a while, my health has improved a lot."
Not stopping at teaching martial arts, martial artist Thuan also cherishes a bigger goal of bringing his young students to the professional arena, giving them the opportunity to express their talents on the arena.
