Yong Studios Instructors - Interview with Mr. Hettipola

Mr. Hettipola earned his Black Belt at Yong Studios. He assists in teaching several of the children's classes and is always around to help students on an individual basis.

Q: What inspired you to start studying martial arts?

I started Tae Kwon Do through Mr. Khorami, who was a friend of mine at school. He told me about the classes and invited me to try a week. After that week of classes, I knew that it was something I would love to do, and I signed up shortly afterwards.

Q: How has the study of martial arts changed your life?

Martial arts has taught me many different things that help me not only class, but in other aspects of my life as well. Mentally, I have learned discipline and concentration that keeps me focused on what I need to do and when I need to do it. I have become much more physically fit as well, and it makes me proud of who I am. Overall I have become a much better person.

Q: What do you enjoy most about teaching martial arts?

I love to see the students advance and master new techniques. During graduation, you can see the excitement on the faces of both the children and adults when they receive their new belts. The progression that they have is what I enjoy the most, especially for those who had difficulties but still tried hard everyday.

Q: What keeps you here?

Taking classes here has improved me in many ways, but everyday I feel like I can still do better. There is more to achieve, and I can be at a higher level next month than today. Also, I want all the other students here to also experience what I have experienced and gain the most out of martial arts. I want to help them get better too.

Instructors