Meet Cornwall area youth karate competitor Haylie Chefero

CORNWALL, Ontario — There are many different aspects of karate. At only five years old, young Haylie Chefero is always ready to learn something new. Always full of smiles, this young student is excited for every karate class. Attending classes in Winchester at Wattie Karate, she is taught by Renshi Dave Wattie, with regular assistance by senior students of the school.

In the spring of 2021, karate mom Erin wanted to enroll her daughter in a sports program in the area. From a long list of options, Haylie was excited to try karate. Erin thinks she made a great choice: “We think that the discipline is a good tool for her, and it was something she needed more of. She’s a strong kid and we wanted her to be able to control her strength and use it appropriately,” says Erin.

While the classes always have a focus on fun, there is a foundation of respect, learning and growth. Haylie’s favourite part of class is when Renshi Dave tells a story to help students learn; she especially enjoyed learning how to scoop ice cream (middle blocks).

Asked why she likes karate Haylie replies: “When you learn karate, you get to fight bad guys when you are in danger.” Even at a young age, Haylie has a mind to defend herself and her family.
There are many benefits to karate programs. Erin is just like every other parent, wanting safety on top of fun. “She (Haylie) has the tools to be able to defend herself if she ever needs to.”

Whenever a new student joins the class, Haylie is one of the first to offer a smile, say hi and show off her favourite karate move: a roundhouse kick!
New friends, respect, discipline, strength and leadership skills are just some of the ways karate students grow. The impact available on young students is invaluable. Wattie Karate is ready to welcome new students in Cornwall and in Winchester.

Erin thinks that if a parent wants their child to try something new that can help them in many ways, Wattie Karate is the place to go. “Haylie loves the environment. She loves the teacher, and she feels at home when she’s at class. It’s a family now!” says Erin.

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