Testimonials from 88 Dragon's Students

Master Alvey’s ability to instill his own core values, through his classes and teachings, has inspired myself to be more caring, honest, respectful, and to make me feel a sense of self-responsibility. He has excellent leadership skills and has been a great role model for me which makes me more comfortable in my own ability to teach classes at 88 Dragons. His gentle, patient, and caring attitude always made me want to attend class and achieve my best each and every time.

Mr Spencer Kelch 3rd Dan, Assistant Instructor

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Master Alvey is a skilled and knowledgeable Tae Kwon Do instructor who exudes personal warmth and sensitivity to individual student needs. My nine year old son and I joined his family class in 2013 and trained in his Dojang twice a week. Master Alvey’s classes were physically challenging but also enjoyable. He always stressed that one must train according to one’s own ability and limitations and was supportive of each individual student in the class. As a middle aged male, for example, flexibility and coordination did not come easily, yet Master Alvey praised my efforts and encouraged me to continue. More importantly, he was very flexible in his approach to my son, who has always resisted both authority and strenuous physical activity. Master Alvey recognized this and very skillfully asserted his authority while knowing when to back away and allow my son to work at his own pace. Even though sparring was a regular part of our training, emphasis was never placed on being aggressively competitive, but rather on competing to challenge ourselves, and have fun. As a result of this our Taewon-do class became quite close over the years, as we all looked forward to each class as more than just a training experience, but also as an engagement with community.

Tom, Ph.D., Associate Professor

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I am writing to recommend Master Dennis Alvey as a Taekwon-Do instructor. I have known Master Alvey for many years and he has been a member of our ITF-TAO organisation in good standing for the past 6 years. He currently holds the rank of 7th Degree Black Belt and assumes the role as “Senior Advisor” in ITF-TAO. He is also a certified International Instructor and Examiner.

Master Alvey, has contributed immensely to our organisation by providing instructional support and guidance in the Art of Taekwon-Do in his community for several years and has developed a very dedicated and disciplined student base.

Every aspect of his teaching is both innovative and traditional keeping true to the values of Traditional Taekwon-Do. Instruction, assessment, interaction, communication and class management are just some of his areas of expertise as far as teaching is concerned.

Thank you,

Mike Morningstar, ITF-TAO Technical Director

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It has been a pleasure to train with Master Alvey to green belt level. Master Alvey has a family oriented teaching style that is flexible to the unique needs of parents and students. My son flourished in his class learning the principles of the traditional martial art Taekwondo. I personally have found it to be a great bonding experience between my son and I. Master Alvey provided a program that my son and I were able to participate in together. I enjoyed how it improved my physical and mental fitness.

For my son who has Attention Deficit Disorder, this program provided him with skills that he could use at home and school. As a parent I learned different strategies to help to refocus my son. I have been so inspired by family Taekwon-do that I have done a thesis on family Taekwon-do and ADHD for my Master of Education. So far my research is finding a similar experience amongst other families who have children with ADHD.

Regards,

Christopher NP, MEd(c)

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To Whom it May Concern, Re: Master Alvey

I have known Master Alvey since the beginning of 2015. He taught my 8 year old son Taekwondo for a period of 6 months. He is a patient, kind and fair instructor who is very knowledgeable in the teachings of Taekwon-do. My son is often very shy and hesitant with new activities; Master Alvey found a way to make it work to help Sam overcome his fears and become a confident member of the class. He has a unique ability to add warmth and compassion within the strict and disciplined teachings of Taekwon-do. Master Alvey also taught family groupings which enabled him to showcase his skills by teaching children and adults at all levels. His knowledge and expertise will be easily recognized and valued.

Jill, local business owner.

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“The family classes at 88 Dragons allow my daughter and me to train together. There is a good mix of kids and adults, which is important to both of us. Master Alvey and the other instructors are encouraging and enthusiastic, but also very understanding of everyone’s individual skill level and ability. 88 Dragons Taekwon-do has proven to be an awesome experience. You get the benefit of great exercise, physical and mental discipline, and self-defence, all in a positive environment. “The kids at 88 Dragons Martial Arts learn so much more than just Taekwon-do. Confidence, friendship, self discipline and respect for themselves and others. My daughter always looks forward to training, and the lessons are a lot of fun. Master Alvey creates an environment where students are given the opportunity to reach their full potential. I would recommend this school to anyone.”

Elaine

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Master Alvey's guidance took me from a novice to a competent martial artist. His teaching is a rare combination of patience, compassion, and expert-level skill. His breadth of experience allows for a personalized, varied approach to teaching martial arts; he can teach everything from formal patterns to sport fighting to practical self defense techniques. He expects the best from all of his students and sets a high standard of respect and conduct in all of his classes.

Nicholas Stirling, 2nd Degree Black, Teacher

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Our family has been involved with 88 Dragons Martial Arts for five years. I have personally witnessed the physical, social, and mental benefits of a structured, professional program that caters to the individual needs of the participants. With a focus on self defense, patterns, and physical well being, my children demonstrate self confidence and motivation. Master Dennis Alvey's calm teaching style and knowledge of the sport allow each person to experience self growth. I highly recommend 88 Dragons Martial Arts.

Susan deJonge, Learning Resource Teacher HWDSB

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As a nurse I encourage patients to pursue healthy lifestyle choices, and so I believe I should live them as well. Exercise is one of those choices that isn't always easy to do, but makes me feel great. I like that every class is different with new drills, and the workout is not so long that I can't fit it into my busy schedule. It's also allowed me to feel stronger, fitter, more energized, and helped me maintain a healthy weight. Each class is tailored to your skill and fitness level, so you never feel lost or overwhelmed when first starting. I think it's a great place to stay fit and have fun at the same time!

Stephanie, BN RN