KICK IT! MAYA SCHWARTZ LEVELS UP IN KARATE

Q. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING KARATE?

A. I’ve been doing karate for about 14 years now. I originally started off in a style called Tang Soo Do, but when we moved here, I had to changed styles. I changed to a style called Isshin-ryu.

Q. WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO STYLES?

A. Tang Soo Do is much more aggressive and much more about strength behind the moves and power. Ishin Ru has more of a flow to it. When we do the forms, called Katas, it has a certain flow to it that I like a lot.

Q. WHAT BELT ARE YOU?

A. I just got my second degree black belt. The next belt up is third degree black belt and I have to wait three years to move up to the next belt.

Q. WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO TEST FOR YOUR 2ND DEGREE BLACK BELT?

A. Testing up for that was basically doing all of the things that I knew for the style. It was a challenge to start reviewing for everything. Testing was happening at the same time as the play. It was hard to split my time.

Q. WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE?

A. Last year, I officially became a sensei. I actively teach people. I teach a wide variety of classes from 4 year olds up to 60 year olds. The decision to make me a sensei came from the dojo and was a recognition of my dedication and hard work.

Q. WILL YOU CONTINUE IN COLLEGE?

A. I will absolutely continue next year at RIT. I will form a club or commute to my dojo on weekends.