CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE
This audio interview is part of a series completed by STA journalism students who sat down with middle school students from around Kansas City. We hoped to find out the realities of middle school life, from dating to cliques, from playing violin to playing volleyball. The series was inspired by Ira Glass’s public radio show This American Life and its episode “Middle School.” Please check back each day for the next few weeks to listen to another installment.
by Grace Sly
Daniel Bauman, a sixth grader at Pembroke Hill School, participates in a form of martial art called Tai Kwan Do. A national sport in South Korea, Tai Kwan Do has become a global practice. Daniel takes lessons at the YMCA.
“[I started Tai Kwan Do] in January of 2009 or 2008,” Daniel said, “[I’m a] second stripe purple belt.”
Tai Kwan Do has a reputation of being focused on kicking and punching. According to Daniel, there is more to it than wild brawling.
“[Tai Kwan Do]’s controlled fighting… It’s a series of moves. There’s mutual respect between people.” he said.
At the age of 12, Daniel has already competed in multiple Tai Kwan Do tournaments. Before he spars, however, he must train to perfect his skill.
