Name: Kevin Barnes
Animal Title: Black Dragon
Rank: Master, 7th Degree Black Belt
 

About Kevin

I served in the U.S. Army in the mid-80's as a Computer Programmer, spending most of my time at Ft. Hood Texas. After being honorably discharged in 1988, I moved to Vermont and worked as a Correctional Officer at Northwest State Correctional Facility. I tend to say "When I was in prison..." rather than "When I was a Correctional Officer..." just to see people's reaction.

I began studying the PaSaRyu system in February of 2003 and quickly rose through the ranks. I was taking as many classes per week as I could, sometimes up to 12 classes in 6 days. When I wasn't in class I was practicing or watching the videos Grandmaster Rhee sold so that I could learn my requirements and perfect my techniques. I began teaching as a green belt, helping lower belts learn their katas, the basic techniques and the concepts behind the style.

PaSaRyu is a passion for me. I do it primarily for the physical exercise and mental aspects. I enjoy continually working on my techniques, teaching method and kata execution. I strive to ensure students understand how to perform every technique properly and effectively.