Photo by: Rachel Roark

When asked who her favorite sparring partner is, senior Megan Westervelt jokingly said, “I definitely get more satisfaction out of [hitting] the boys.”

Westervelt has not always participated in martial arts, but after an unfortunate encounter while studying abroad she joined DU’s Taekwondo Club.

“I was walking back to my apartment building when two men cornered me and stole my phone,” said Westervelt, now vice president of the club.

One of the most valuable lessons she took away from this experience was the importance of self defense, she said.

“I have learned and been able to practice how to hit guys where it will really incapacitate them,” Westervelt said.

The Taekwondo Club practices every Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. in the Studio B Aerobics room in the Ritchie Center. It is not madatory or necessary to attend practices weekly in order to learn the sport. The team is currently in training for their quarterly belt tests.

During these events, individuals can earn new colored belts and levels by showing off the skills they have learned throughout the quarter by sparring and splintering wood with different punches and kicks using all parts of the body.

As of now, DU is not participating in any tournaments because the team is in the process of developing  a team capable of a competitive tournament. However, the club is aspiring to join in local competition next year.

New members are always welcome, even if they don’t have any experience with the sport.

“There is no experience needed prior to joining the club,” said Huy Huynh, president of the club. “Almost none of the members had any prior experience before DU.”

Taekwondo traditionally tends emphasizes self defense and power. Since joining the club, Westervelt has recaptured her stolen confidence and made close relationships with the members of the club.

“We are all really, really close,” said sophomore Rachael Roark, club member.

“We try to individualize it and involve everyone,” said Westervelt. “We try to break off to work with beginners and try to make them feel comfortable.”

Taekwondo is also known for helping people find serenity in the meditation and philosophy of the sport.

“It really helps you connect with your body and mind, you forget about everything else you have to worry about in life,” Westervelt said.

For more information visit recreation.du.edu/clubsports  and view the Club Taekwondo web page.