Monday night we got to celebrate something that is bigger than a title and a certificate.
Mr. John Dougherty Jr. has officially received his instructor credentials, Bu Gyosa Nim.
Last month, in December 2025, John earned his 2nd Dan in HapKiDo. Now he has taken the next step forward, not just as a student, but as someone entrusted to help guide others. This is a proud moment for our entire dojang family, because John’s journey is the kind of example that quietly raises the standard for all of us.
Instructor credentials are not handed out, they are earned through consistency, responsibility, and service, over time, when nobody is watching.
Over the past 12 months, John completed our Instructor Development course, completed the required clearance steps, and stepped onto the mat again and again to assist. More than 120 hours of helping, holding pads, working with students, supporting class flow, and being a steady presence, not for recognition, but because he believes in the value of training and the responsibility of community. That is what a Bu Gyosa Nim represents in our program. Service and leadership.
Please join us in congratulating Bu Gyosa Nim John Dougherty Jr. on receiving his official instructor credentials.
HapKi!
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