True Spirit Taekwondo Huddersfield is a member group club which is directly administered by the British Taekwondo Control Board (BTCB) part of the World Taekwondo Federation. True Spirit, Huddersfield, as it is now, has made a significant impact at Calder High School, and all its other venues across Calderdale and Kirklees since its inception in September 2004.

Instructor Mark Bellanfante is a 2nd Degree black belt,with over 11 years experience in Taekwondo, working closely with his mentors from other organisations like the BTCB, Parkgate Taekwondo club and Philip Payne, 4th Dan, of Team Taekwondo. Numbers have rocketed and they continue to grow almost weekly. As a staff member at Calder High, Mark has publicised the club throughout the school and the sixth form. More recently the club has been opened to the general public as a fee-paying activity. All members need individual insurance, as with any other martial art clubs. Mark's attitude is that 'you reap what you sow': whatever attributes you have, we are prepared to work with you. 

The organisation has a distinct family focus which helps to make it more friendly and allows it to stand out from most other clubs in the area. Mums, Dads, brothers and sisters are actively encouraged to train together. This approach works well for us. Eddy Dixon, 2nd Dan, is the club's top student and at present he is the only other black belt in the organisation. Eddy has been training with Mark for over 7 years - he exemplifies what hard work and determination can do and provides another role model for other students, young and old.

The club is supported by a whole range of organisations and people with extensive experience in all aspects of Taekwondo this has been crucial to the success of the True Spirit organisation. The school works in partnership with True Spirit for the benefit of the students. Stephen Ball, Head teacher at Calder High and Mick Kay, Head of PE, plus other colleagues and parents continue to give their support - which has given Mark the confidence to continue. Students and staff have now experienced some of the wider Taekwondo activities - e.g. Gradings, Competitions, Seminars - and this has encouraged students to make Taekwondo their main sport activity. 

Taekwondo is the fastest growing Martial Art in the world today and one of the most effective. The style of Taekwondo practised throughout our clubs is in line with the Korean and WTF standards - this is the style of Taekwondo which will be used in the 2012 Olympic Games in London. True Spirit can provide every opportunity for its members whatever their ability, at all levels of practise. The organisation operates around the five Tenets of Taekwondo: Etiquette, Modesty, Perseverance, Self Control, Indomitable Spirit - which all students must sign up to. Mark sees this as essential to being successful in Taekwondo.

Mark Bellanfante - Founder / Instructor

Contact Mark on 01422 883213 at Calder High for details and information about all his other classes throughout Calderdale and Kirklees.