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Dee Smith sparring at competition
Student Spotlight ยท February 2026

Dee Smith

2nd Dan Black Belt · TAGB Competitor · Assistant Instructor

18
Age
7
Years Training
2nd Dan
Belt Rank
TAGB
Association

Meet Dee Smith โ€” 18 years old, 7 years into her Taekwondo journey, and one of the most dedicated students in our dojang. From her first competition as a colour belt to earning her 2nd Dan Black Belt, Dee has shown the kind of commitment, resilience, and heart that makes a true martial artist. She now gives back to the club as an assistant instructor, helping the next generation find their feet on the mat.

"Just keep going โ€” every session makes you better, even when it doesn't feel like it."

โ€” Dee Smith, February 2026
What's your favourite kick?
Turning kick โ€” it's the one I feel most confident with in sparring.
What's your favourite pattern?
Toi-Gye โ€” I love the power movements in it.
What's been your biggest challenge in Taekwondo?
Staying consistent when life gets busy. There were times I wanted to quit, but I'm so glad I didn't.
What's your proudest Taekwondo moment?
Getting my 2nd Dan. It felt like everything I'd worked for finally came together.
Which tenet of Taekwondo means the most to you?
Perseverance. It's the one I've had to use the most โ€” on the mat and off it.
What would you say to someone thinking about starting Taekwondo?
Just try it. The first session is the hardest โ€” after that, you'll wonder why you waited so long.
What do you enjoy most about being an assistant instructor?
Seeing the younger students improve and get excited about their training. It reminds me of when I started.

From early colour belt competitions to black belt sparring at national events โ€” a look at Dee's journey through the years.

Dee Smith sparring at TAGB competition
Dee Smith in sparring action
Dee Smith high kick at competition
Dee Smith with fellow black belts and medals
Dee Smith sparring victory
Dee Smith early competition days
Favourite Song to Train To
Something with a heavy beat โ€” gets me in the zone
Favourite Food
Pizza โ€” always pizza
Hobby Outside Taekwondo
Gaming and spending time with friends
Can You Do a 540ยฐ Kick?
Working on it... nearly there!
Taekwondo or Chocolate?
Both โ€” but Taekwondo wins every time
Training Partners
The whole dojang โ€” everyone pushes each other

Dee is exactly the kind of student that makes instructing so rewarding. She has worked incredibly hard over seven years, never taking shortcuts, and always giving 100% whether she's competing, grading, or helping with the younger students. Watching her grow from a nervous colour belt into a confident 2nd Dan and assistant instructor has been a real privilege. She is a credit to herself, her family, and to Train Taekwondo Schools.

We are proud to name Dee our February 2026 Student Spotlight. Well deserved, Dee โ€” keep going!

Inspired by Dee's Story?

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