WHAT’S YOUR karate IQ? Is it informed by the wise instructor from “The Karate Kid,” Mr. Miyagi, or the or the Netflix series “Cobra Kai’’? Perhaps you still enjoy reruns of “Walker, Texas Ranger,” and its karate action scenes. Or maybe your mental association of the word “karate” is to “black belt.” Television, movies, and streaming services may be your only exposure to the martial arts, but it doesn’t have to limit your appreciation for it.
Step into Fayetteville’s Eagle Spirit Karate (ESK) to the sound of bare feet slapping padded floors and intense “Osu!” here and there, meaning “to persevere whilst being pushed.” That’s not just a vocalization popularized by Hollywood; it’s kiai, a martial arts spirit shout propelled by an explosive burst of energy. Sensei Terry Mitchell guides the class through their choreographed movements, with each strike and block executed with purpose and control. Despite the common misconception that the main goal is advancing rank, as evidenced by the color of the uniforms’ obi (belt), much more takes place in the space of class.
Mitchell explained, “Eagle Spirit Karate is a family-oriented dojo. We maintain the traditional art of Okinawan karate and kobudo (traditional Okinawan weapons training). We emphasize self-respect and respect for others.”
This combination is at the heart of the ESK Trias karate system, developed through the expertise and teachings of Hanshi Terry Sanders in Shorei Ryu, Sensei Dan Marrs in Shorei Goju Ryu, and Sensei Lorraine Lewis in Shuri Ryu. Each system was passed down by “The Father of American Karate,” O’Sensei Robert Trias.
“I have been blessed with two great instructors who placed emphasis on different aspects of the art. Marrs Sensei focused on sparring while Lewis Sensei focused on kata and its bunkai (application),” Mitchell said. “I’ve also had the opportunity to meet and train with Hanshi Terry Sanders, the current Style Head of Shorei Ryu.”
The focus and discipline instilled by martial arts are practical tools to improve learning in students diagnosed with developmental disorders,including people with autism or with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders.
“Their parents and teachers have seen major improvements in their ability to concentrate and focus on tasks at hand,” Mitchell pointed out about their success.
But it’s not a one-size-fits-all program when training these students.
He said, “As instructors, we must adapt our teaching methods and tailor them to the needs of the student. Each student is different and motivated in different ways. There is no cookie-cutter process. Teaching students with special needs takes a great deal of patience, but seeing the positive results from their training is very rewarding.”
While few students ever achieve their black belt status, the dedication and training of those who do reap the benefits in all areas of life. ESK student Sensei Natasha McDonald is one of the success stories.
McDonald, who started with ESK as a 7-year-old, is now 21 and holds the rank of Sandan (third degree black belt).
“We have watched her grow from a little girl to an excellent martial artist, instructor, and exceptional young lady,” Mitchell said.
Through her years with ESK, McDonald progressed, graduating high school, college, and nursing school while dedicating herself to karate. Her personal journey reflects ESK’s dedication to developing skilled martial artists and well-rounded individuals who contribute to the local community.
“Her training instilled self-confidence, self-discipline, and tenacity. These traits were very beneficial in her academic achievements and will greatly assist in her professional pursuits,” stated Mitchell.
Although she was shy and unsure of herself as a child, her 14-plus years at ESK taught her self-confidence in all areas of life. The instructors’ support undergirds her through life’s ups and downs.
McDonald shared, “Sensei Jurgen and Sensei Terry are more than just teachers — they are family. They comforted me when I lost my mother as a child and celebrated with me when I graduated high school and college. They have had a significant impact on the woman that I have become over the years, and I am truly grateful for them both.”
According to Mitchell, though rooted in ancient art, ESK continually adjusts its teaching methodology and curriculum.
“Our curriculum has evolved over the years. We still hold to our traditional roots and the art of Okinawan karate, but we also use modern training methods,” Mitchell said. “Our black belts have trained and are currently training in other systems such as Jeet Kune Do, Kali, Wing Chun, and Brazilian jiujitsu, and they bring this knowledge to the dojo and share it with our students.”
The ESK Trias karate system is a comprehensive approach emphasizing self-protection, self-respect, and self-discipline. Within its framework, the sound of bare feet slapping against the floor and the resonant “Hoa!” symbolize the beginning of a journey — not just about mastering martial arts, but about unlocking one’s fullest potential in every aspect of life. GN
