Wow! Katas are good for something.

**mrblackmagic** · Posted On: 8/01/2006 11:41pm

Seriously, I'm impressed by this.

Originally Posted by CNN

Chattanooga Autistic Kid Qualifies For Karate Nationals
WDEF-TV News 12
Jun 29, 2006 11:43 PM EDT

When the insurance money ran out

for Brandon Earnshaw's autistic therapy,

a therapist recommended he take up karate.

And now at the age of eleven,

the Chattanooga native is about to make karate history.

According to his instructor,

Earnshaw will soon become the first autistic

person to compete in the karate nationals.

Brandon Earnshaw is diagnosed with moderate autism. He struggled with his motor skills before entering Green's Karate class nearly three years ago.

Brandon's Mom, Alina Earnshaw, "Couldn't ride a bike for example before he started taking karate. He didn't have the balance to do it."

Karate has not only improved Earnshaw's balance, but his performance in the classroom.

Alina-"Teachers were asking if I had medicated Brandon. He was much more able to focus."

Karate instructor Corey Green, "You learn the punches and kicks. But it's much more than that. It's more than just kicking and punching. It's more learning about character, manners, respect, and self-discipline. And you build confidence along the way any way."

Brandon, what do you like about karate?

Brandon Earnshaw, "Kicking."

Is that a lot of fun?

Brandon-"Yeah"

And now Brandon is kicking up a storm. He recently became the first autistic kid ever to qualify for nationals, which gets underway next month in Fort Lauderdale.

Corey-"This is the highest tournament for traditional karate in the U.S."

Brandon, What do you think is going to happen down there?

Brandon-"Nothing." (laughter)

Brandon has made both his coach and mom, proud.

Corey-"It's a great honor to have someone in my school that can actually accomplish that feat. He's the first person. He sets the record for everybody else. He sets the example."

Alina-"He has always been my hero. But seeing him able to keep going, no matter how hard it gets. That's a big encouragement."

**new2bjj** · Posted On: 8/01/2006 11:43pm

But can he fight in the Octogan!? That's all that matters, right?

**mrblackmagic** · Posted On: 8/01/2006 11:44pm

You're a dick. I want you to know that.

Christ, you fucking guys.

edit. Hell of a thought.

**BackFistMonkey** · Posted On: 8/01/2006 11:48pm

Originally Posted by mrblackmagic

You're dick. I want you to know that.

Christ, you fucking guys.

I haven't had sex with Christ since Catholic school days ...

Cool article though .

**Odacon** · Posted On: 8/02/2006 5:39am

Good for him.

**Captain Spaulding** · Posted On: 8/02/2006 2:04pm

I've taught two autistic kids and it can be difficult sometimes but very rewarding. Granted, neither was too bad of a case. Still though, my hat's off.