CARLSBAD, California,
May 8th, 2008 – United Studios of Self Defense in Carlsbad (USSD Carlsbad) announced today that Matthew Haines
achieved the rank of Junior Black Belt after a comprehensive physical and mental martial arts test held at the USSD headquarters
in Lake Forrest. This is a momentous event for the school as Matthew is the first student to make it from white to black
belt at the Carlsbad studio.
Matthew Haines is in the seventh grade
at Tri-City Christian School in Vista. Matthew has exhibited great dedication and focus in the martial arts over his four
years of training with USSD. Matthew’s martial arts ability includes defensive techniques for many scenarios including
multiple attackers, attackers with weapons and grappling defenses. Matthew is also skilled in sparring and Shaolin weapons
for which he has earned eight trophies at the USSD Grand Championship Tournaments held in Irvine.
Matthew exhibits the spirit of a black belt through his tenacity and perseverance. “Black
belt has been my life-long dream and I continued to train even after almost all of my friends quit.” In fact, only 1%
of people who begin training in the martial arts actually make it to black belt. But Matthew knows that
his journey does not end here. “Reaching this level has been a great accomplishment; I can’t wait to see what
else I can achieve.” Matthew’s family has been a great influence in his training as well. His grandmother Diane
Haedrich says that “The training has been a great experience for Matthew because it has washed over into other areas
of his life. He has great focus and follow-through, which shows up in his personal life and academic life.”
About United Studios of Self Defense
United Studios of Self Defense (USSD) provides professional private and group class instruction
to men, women, and children of all ages. USSD teaches the versatile Shaolin Kempo system and has a unique relationship with
the Shaolin Temple. USSD has over 200 studios nationwide and has helped thousands of people experience how the magic of martial
arts training can enhance the quality of life.
