Dear Starworld Family,

This week at Starworld Martial Arts Academy is packed with training, inspiration, and a very special moment in Tang Soo Do history. Here’s what’s happening August 18–23:

🥋 Test Prep Week (Aug 18–21)​
Students of all ranks are preparing for their upcoming rank advancement by sharpening forms, drills, and self-defense. Over the next two weeks, instructors will determine when gup (under black belt rank) students are ready to receive their Gray Stripe—a symbol that they are prepared for the next test. Students who earn their Gray Stripe will test on Saturday, Sept 6 (morning, times TBD). August 2025.png​

Important Note: Black Belt candidates (those testing this weekend) must take their written test online on Monday, Aug 18 or Tuesday, Aug 19 (4:00–7:30 PM) at the karate studio. Students taking the Black Belt written test must bring an iPad or laptop as the written test is online. If you cannot make these times, contact our office right away.

⭐ Special Guest Instructors (Wed, Aug 20)​
We’re honored to welcome visiting Master Instructors from Pennsylvania—a husband-and-wife team, both Penn State University graduates. Training runs 4:00–6:30 PM, and every student will benefit from their unique insights and fresh energy. August 2025 Clinic Region 2.png​

Pre-Black Belt Test (Fri, Aug 22 – 6:00–9:00 PM)​
Regional Black Belt candidates will gather at Ability360 Gym in downtown Phoenix to present in front of a panel of Master Instructors. https://wtsdaregion2.com/ This pretest shows readiness for official Black Belt testing in October. Families are welcome to attend and cheer them on!

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Region 2 Tang Soo Do Leadership Clinic (Sat, Aug 23 – All Ages & Ranks) ​
This exciting clinic brings together students from Tiny Tigers through Adults for training and leadership development. Please note (Regular Saturday Starworld classes will still run as scheduled.)

📣 Special WTSDA Community Celebration – Leadership Transition & Promotion​
During the clinic, Master Williamson will officially pass leadership of Region 2 to Master Larson, who will also be promoted to 5th Dan Black Belt Master. If you’ve never witnessed a Master’s Promotion, this is your chance to see a truly inspiring ceremony.

For the past 15.8 years, Master Williamson—personally appointed by the late Grandmaster Shin—has proudly led the schools of Arizona, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Idaho as Region 2 Director. With the support of Masters Boeckman and Shay, he has helped guide and grow our community.

In 2024, Master Williamson was promoted to 7th Degree Senior International Master and entrusted with the role of Chair over all WTSDA studios worldwide. With this expanded responsibility, he now passes the Region 2 Director role to Master Larson. Masters Shay and Boeckman are also stepping into greater leadership, ensuring Starworld families remain supported at the highest level.

👉 Please note: Regular Saturday classes at Starworld (Gold Program & Black Belt morning training) will still take place as usual for students who attend those sessions.

This weekend is more than a transition—it’s a celebration of leadership, growth, and the bright future of Tang Soo Do.

The next two weeks are all about belt test preparation. Please make sure you and your child attend every regular class and make up any missed sessions—consistent practice builds confidence!

✨ Black Belt Candidates: Your Pretest is Friday, August 22. This is your moment to demonstrate readiness, discipline, and the spirit of Tang Soo Do.

🥋 Gup Rank Students: Your Belt Test is Saturday, September 6. Use these weeks to sharpen your forms, polish your techniques, and prepare to show your very best.

Together, we’re closing August with strength and stepping boldly into September even stronger. This is your time to shine!

Tang Soo!
​Master Williamson & the Starworld Team