Recently, I shared that I’m beginning my 24th year with Chuck Norris’ Kickstart Kids. Twenty-four years of character-building, lesson planning, and watching young people grow into their best selves. It’s been a journey filled with grit, grace, and more than a few bruises. After that post, someone asked me a question I hadn’t considered in…
Month: September 2025
How the Martial Arts Build Essential Life Skills
As parents, we want our children and teens to succeed not just in school but in life. We sign them up for activities, hoping they’ll gain confidence, discipline, and maybe even learn a new skill. If your child is in martial arts, you might be focused on the physical benefits, the strength, coordination, and self-defense….
Still Going Strong: My 24th Year with Kickstart Kids
The ringing of the school bell. The odiferous scent of mats. The noise of the kids in the hall. For going on 24 years, these have been the backdrop to my life’s work as an instructor with Chuck Norris’ Kickstart Kids program. More than just teaching karate, I’ve been a part of a movement to…
Wallace Smedley 