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Why TaeKwon-Do? Why Clapham?
"TaeKwon-Do is the most dynamic, exciting and exhilerating martial art going." That is the view of the Clapham&
Tooting schools students. Known for its amazing kicks, it enables an individual to gain fitness, flexibility and a means
to help defend themselves. The Clapham school started back in 1997 with only 3 students. Since then it has grown
in size and reputation with well over 100 having registered.Being probably the only club to have 4 female black belts
graded at one time, it is known for its equal mix of both male and female participants.
The Tooting school
has been established for over 27 years under the watchful eye of Master Sangha VII dan. A dedicated teacher of TaeKwon-Do,
master Sangha has been instructor to over 200 black belts, Mr Snelders 5th dan being honoured to now take over the task. The friendly atmosphere allows all to learn at their own pace, and with the support and knowledge of the seniors. Achievements
have seen novice and experienced members gain individual and team medals both at home and abroad. The school adheres
very much to the traditional ideals in both physical and mental approach to a martial art. This means that anyone may
come and try, but not all will be accepted. Its said that 1 in 100 males and 1 in 200 females may gain the coveted black belt.
Will that someone be you?
About the Instructor
| Instructor Mr M. Snelders V dan (left) |
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I took my first TaeKwon-Do lesson at the end of 1982 in Leicester. From that moment on I was hooked. I
still stand by the fact that it was the level of tuition and not the art that first drew me back time and time
again.. But after a few weeks I realised how incredible TKD could be, and what a personal challenge it was to perservere
no matter how small the steps were in my progress. After a few years break, due to education and then touring
around with my work, I settled in south London and began to look for a suitable school. In 1992 after being disappointed
by 4 different clubs I met with Master Sangha then a 4th degree. Through Master Sangha and the BUTF (British United TaeKwon-Do
Federation) I found the levels of knowledge and commitment to a true martial art, that I remain thankful for. Now
as a 5th degree black belt ,having won many medals, and competed at home and abroad I set my sights on what can be achieved
by our club. The learning never stops and if the joy I get at teaching continues, I consider myself a very lucky
man!!
| Master Sangha VII degree |

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| Mr Snelders' instructor for the last 17 years |
Tooting TKD has been going for over 27years under the watchful eye of Master Sangha. His history can be read on the pages
of the BUTF's website, but needless to say, those that have trained and still train with him benefit from his vast
knowledge. All of the black belts in Clapham and Croydon schools have gratefully been provided with extra tuition at Tooting
through the generosity of this genuine master of TaeKwon-Do. It is therefore a great honour that master Sangha has chosen
Mr Snelders to continue the school.
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