April 2022 Instructor of the Month - Danny & Jennifer Randolph
The YMCA of Parkersburg's Instructor of the Month is designed to help you get to know the instructors that help make our Y community great, from our group fitness instructors to the coaches of our various programs. This month, we’re introducing Danny & Jennifer Randolph, who work as Tae Kwon Do Instructors. Let’s get to know them:
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself: what are some fun facts about you?
Danny has been training since he was five years old! I started when I was 13, and that is how we met. His father is our instructor. Danny and I married in 2008 and we have three boys of our own, two of which are in Tae Kwon Do. We are both 6th degree Masters.
2. What to you teach at the YMCA of Parkersburg? Tell us a little bit about it.
We teach Tae Kwon Do. It is the Korean Art of self Defense. It translates to the way of the hands and feet. Our Grandmaster is Sok Ho Kang from Charleston, WV. He came here from Korea and started his first school in the early 70s. We are a very traditional school focusing on discipline and respect. Tae Kwon Do is known for its powerful kicks but can be modified for truly anyone.
3. When and why did you become an instructor? What's your teaching style?
Danny earned his black belt in 1990 and I received mine in 1999. We are very passionate about what we teach and it shows. We value humility and know it starts from the top down. We have certain etiquette to follow such as requiring students to say yes sir, yes ma’am, bow, etc. We also like to have fun and tend to use a little humor at times, because that’s just our personalities. But we take it very seriously when someone comes, or brings their kid in, to learn from us. What we teach could save a life.
5. What is your most favorite part of teaching at the YMCA of Parkersburg?
We love how healthy our class has become since coming to the Y a couple of years ago. Kid zone is particularly helpful to us since we have a two-year-old. We really appreciate the wonderful facilities and the staff who have made us feel a part of the family.
For more information about Tae Kwon Do please visit our website. Their next session begins May 2nd and they are already taking registrations!