Mr. Connor

Mr. Connor is a Vietnam War veteran and a pretty popular karate instructor in his neighborhood. He is also lame in one of his legs due to the injury he sustained during the war. He says, “If it wasn’t for martial arts, I don’t know where I’d be right now.” He recalls it wasn’t easy for him to get back on his feet and train--especially with his injury-- but thanks to the discipline and the training of martial arts, he successfully overcame his physical obstacle and became somewhat of a heroic figure in his own right.  

To the many troubled teens in his local neighborhood, not only is he their karate instructor, but he is also an inspirational figure to whom many look up to. Through training and the practice of martial arts, he has shown them a brighter side of life—one that is less vice-ridden, and full of dedication and fulfillment. He states, “It helps to steer them away from troubles and stay more focused on the right path of life.” 

He is from Cary, NC, and has been practicing martial arts for the past 20 years, of which the last 5 years were spent teaching the local kids. He is grateful that he’s had a chance to encounter the sports of martial arts and how it has changed his life forever. “Martial arts have given me so much, and I am just doing my small part to do the same for these kids,” says Mr. Connor. 

We are proud to say that he was one of our inspirational stories behind this series we call, “My Belt, My Story.”  Just like Mr. Connor’s story, we believe that there is a heartfelt story behind every belt. Behind Your Belt. Whether it is a white belt, or a black belt, or a master’s belt, we believe that in our series, there is no color that is better or higher than the other. It is simply your belt that represents the color of your journey and your life.

P.S. Mr. Connor didn’t want his photo to be published but gave his blessing to share his story. 

We believe that every belt is special, and we would love to feature your story, here on our website.