Dear Representatives of the International Taekwon-Do Federation,
It is my pleasure to officially introduce Special Needs Taekwon-Do and future opportunities for instructors and special needs students on the ITF website.
It is my fervent believe that it is important to support those who have intellectual and physical disabilities through the name of Taekwon-Do. The benefits for Special Needs Taekwon-Do are surreal. When teaching these students, we are benefitting our respective communities, and there are ongoing health benefits that the students will surely receive. Age is not a factor that should be considered, nor should disabilities such Autism, Down’s syndrome or Cerebral Palsy, be a limitation. Taekwon-Do changes lives in a positive way, as it provides opportunities for students to learn and develop skills that can be applied to everyday life.
I would like to personally thank the ITF, President Choi Jung Hwa, grandmasters, and instructors and students everywhere, who are supporting Special Needs Taekwon-Do. I have so many goals for the success of Special Needs Taekwon-Do in the ITF. I take my lead from the founder of Taekwon-Do, who believed that his legacy would transcend barriers. Thus far the only barrier for Special Needs Taekwon-Do has been the scarcity of instructors and clubs willing to be involved in furthering the General’s vision.
I believe it is my obligation to strengthen Special Needs Taekwon-Do within the ITF. I would like to offer my experience with special needs students to anyone who would like to develop a special needs program for their organisation. Those who wish to support this future development of the ITF, I humbly ask you to make contact with me. The assistance I offer can keep the progression of Taekwon-Do moving forwards. Together we can ensure success.
I am extremely excited about the Special Needs Taekwon-Do developments within the ITF. Furthermore, my dream has been made a reality with the next ITF Taekwon-Do World Championships in England. The announcement by President Choi Jung Hwa that there will be a special needs division in Canada fills me with pride. This coming on the occasion of the 60th birthday of Taekwon-Do is surely a sign of great things. I would like to encourage as many as possible to support and attend with a special needs team. It is a first in the history of Taekwon-Do. Let us strive to continue building the ITF & Special Needs Taekwon-Do with strength and honour.
Yours in Taekwon-Do,
Ben Evans
Special Needs Taekwon-Do Director
T: +64278573045