Is there a secret band of ninjas at Milford High School? Unfortunately, no, but what MHS does have is it’s very own Karate Club, training students in self-defense. The club is teaching multiple facets in the world of martial arts. The specific style practiced in MHS’s Karate Club is the Japanese Isshin-Ryu taught by MHS’s Kathy Simmermon, who has studied the style for over ten years.

“You have to dedicate a lot of time to it, before you can perfect it,” Simmermon shared.

Simmermon also explained how the club has a belt ranking system. So as you learn more about Isshin-Ryu, they have the ability to test and increase their rank. The class will also have the opportunity to go to martial art tournaments. These are just the perks of the already amazing club that teaches students to defend themselves, while having a good time. Freshman Ryan Stults is one of the club’s experienced members.

“It’s pretty small, so you get to meet everyone and get close with the other people in the club,” Ryan said.

The Karate Club is still relatively new to the school, only being a year old. The club has three members at the moment, two girls and one boy. The club is open to everyone who has an interest in martial arts and self-defense. The club meets in the cafeteria space for their lessons and practices the different techniques, making the club much more convenient since transportation of school grounds isn’t needed. Although karate does sound cool, it is to be used for self-defense mainly.

“We don’t beat the crap out of each other like it’s the MMA,” said Simmermon. 

If you’re interested in self-defense, a confidence boost, or just some wholesome workout, go checkout the MHS Karate Club. More particulars can be worked out by talking to Mrs. Simmermon in room 204.