Miss Judy started her Black Belt Academy training in the summer of 2002. She tested for her orange belt in August of that same summer. Even thought she was scared to death (ask her about people who cry at testing!) she persevered and was successful in passing her first test. From there, she simply exploded in to the whole martial arts world.

Having never competed in anything in her life, Miss Judy allowed Mr. Page to talk her in to competing in a Taekwondo tournament. The tournament he chose for her: The Songahm Taekwondo World Championships in Little Rock, AR!!! She was thrilled (NOT!) but she trained hard, and incredibly, she won second place in forms! For three days Miss Judy had trouble keeping her feet on the ground. She floated! It was amazing to see.

In all seriousness, the victory changed her life . From there she became an instructor trainee, the school’s program director, and an icon in our school. With all her successes she eventually became a top, world class competitor. Yet, she has never lost her humility and sense of reverence for the lessons she has learned, and continued to learn in her martial arts training. 

Miss Judy has continued her martial arts training, becoming both a 2nd degree Black Belt, and a certified Tai Chi instructor as well. She continues to work, train, teach, and spread her love of martial arts at the The Black Belt Academy of Poplar Bluff, and we are lucky to have her!!!