As a practitioner of Taekwondo, it is important to try to compete at least a few times in your life, if not more than ten times... this will give you an added dimension to your practice.
I am fully aware of what goes through your mind as a competitor and as a parent(s), I, too experienced both..

Competing in Local, National or International: psychology as a competitor does't change, only the stage... Since we are not dealing at professional level and the opportunities are with you.. It will be a great experience for all.. And your teachers are well experienced and I am sure they will guide you properly..

As an Instructor and School owner: please do not push everyone to compete in free fighting.. it is not necessary, by pushing them you have a greater chance to lose your hard taught students.. only the ones who wish to compete.. Instructor should only provide those who wish to compete, the attitude of compete here means - losing is alright(although it's bothersome) but we will try better next time.. and do prepare them better..

Suk Jun Kim

It's been 3 1/2 months since I resumed teaching every class here at 65th st. Back in Feb. I wasn't too sure how to deal with teaching 'Mighty Lions' and some of the young children that are white/yellow belts. I did call one of my seniors from the old ITF GM Son and expressed my concerns -- His words were..' that's awesome GM Kim, how wonderful it would look a GM teaching small white belts...' His words gave me a ton of strength and to my surprise I am enjoy teaching children and watching their progress, and our children at 65th st. are doing great, actually better than great, they are doing wonderful and improving really well.
And I also have improved talking to parents as well, which I wasn't too good at... 
One of these days you should come and see these children performing...

SUMMER CAMP: unlike from the past, I will teach Hapkido to children.. as well as TKD. We have a great black belt who is a school teacher from NJ.. and of course Mael and Moshe will assist.. It's best sign up asap - it starts week of June 22nd..

SJ Kim