| Seven Spirits Kung Fu - Press Release | |
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Cornell University, February 04, 2004
The Seven Spirits Kung Fu (SSK) organization has continued its mission of sharing the rich and multifaceted Vietnamese martial arts tradition. SSK has accomplished many extraordinary goals this past semester, including establishing a strong foundation at Cornell University as well as building lasting friendships within the organization. Master Tran Khai Hoai developed and integrated a superb curriculum centered on the students’ needs and interests. The practice sessions focused on learning the basic animal forms, sparring sequences, and performance preparation. However, as stated since the inception of the organization, the classes have not been centered on only learning the martial aspect of kung fu; they have been a meeting ground where anyone can approach and take what he or she needs from the ‘vessel’ that is kung fu. Master Hoai created this environment so members may feel at ease, without the restraints of intimidating competition. Members’ experiences expanded across the spectrum. SSK surpassed the aims set out from last semester by participating in numerous charitable and cultural-awareness events within the local community. In autumn, several SSK members took part in their first demonstration of kung fu for a local sorority fundraising event. In addition, during winter break, Master Hoai and a few other members demonstrated Seven Spirits Kung Fu for a weeklong Lunar New Your Tour that visited 10 local elementary schools. It was an excellent opportunity to interact with the local children and to share with them the passion of Thất Sơn Thần Quyền. Master Hoai and Maria also put on a stellar performance for the noteworthy Vietnamese celebration of the New Year in Syracuse. Many citizens of the New York state area in attendance lauded their inspiring demonstration. SSK members also displayed their talent by performing several animal forms in another extensive New Year event sponsored by the CSA. In addition, Master Hoai had the esteemed honor this past semester of having his article on the essence of Thất Sơn Thần Quyền published in the Kung Fu magazine. It is evident that the training within classroom walls extended well beyond during these past few months! It reached and shared with others the intensity and profundity of the SSK tradition! This semester, our goal is to keep growing! SSK hopes to continue participation in cultural-awareness events by taking part in the many performances lined up, most notably, Café Saigon. An upcoming endeavor will also be to acquire funding for the growing needs of SSK. This semester, Seven Spirits Kung Fu offers free instruction two times a week at the Cornell campus. |
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