DMW Martial Arts in Snoqualmie held their black belt graduation on the weekend of November 15 and awarded Black Belts to 14 successful students.

Third-degree black belts were awarded to Veronique and Elizabeth Bourgault. The  two have been training at DMW for nine years and have been role models to the younger students, coaches said. Two second-degree black belts were awarded to Christopher Buyagwan and Kyle Bolin. First-degree black belts were awarded to Shawn Masters,Trajen Hockenbury, Princeton See, Donavan See, Rudy Herman, Cameron Myers, Alex Williams, J.D. Howard, Branson Corneil and Delanie Wilson.

Few people have the dedication to earn a black belt. Generally, it takes four years of consistent training to attain the rank.

“We are very proud of our new black belts. Their hard work and determination has distinguished them in the community,” said Dan Cartan, owner and chief instructor.  “Martial arts training is invaluable especially to children and young adults. We promote outstanding physical fitness, self-defense skills, self confidence, self discipline, concentration, and leadership. The skills and character traits these young people develop here at DMW will stay with them for a lifetime”.