Casey Chang
Nidan
(2nd degree black belt)
)
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Casey began his martial arts training in Shotokan Karate with Sensei Ty Aponte at the age of six and earned his 2nd Dan Black Belt in December 2010 at age 16. With his philosophy of achieving self-improvement through dedication and hard work, Casey has been assisting Sensei Aponte in teaching since 2003. Casey initiated USKL's sport karate team, educating members in tournament etiquette, rules, and sparring strategies.
Casey has also delved into the local and international sport karate tournament circuit, rising as Junior Olympic Gold Medalist in 2010 and Ozawa Cup International Karate Tournament Kata Champion in 2011. Under the US Olympic Committee, Casey is also a US National Karate Federation certified judge and referee.
Casey additionally holds a 2nd Dan Black Belt in traditional Okinawan Kobudo (Weapons) and is the assistant instructor in the USKL's Kobudo program.
In his martial arts career, Casey has further studied Wing Chun Kung Fu, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Jeet Kune Do. He has also trained Muay Thai at Sityodtong in Thailand, and has studied under renowned Thai kickboxing champions Nuengpichit and Malaipet. His studies also include Tai Chi and Wudang sword under celebrated Taoist priest Zhong Xue Chao, aka Master Bing.
Now a senior at Claremont High School, Casey is challenging himself in his school's IB Program, staying busy as President of the National Honors Society, Captain of the Speech and Debate Team, and head instructor of a fitness program he designed for Claremont High faculty and staff to provide a convenient means for his teachers to stay physically active.