Aqabah Karate

Don't forget that you're invited....

2011-03-04T08:13:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow will be a night of celebration, socialization, and recognition for all the hard work and efforts each any every student and family member has made over the past 11 years and counting.

AND YOU'RE INVITED!!!!

Join us for our 1st Annual Awards and Appreciation Dinner.

This is our way of saying thank you for all of your support!

We'll have great food, desert, a small presentation, and awards.

Dress code is casual.

We hope to see you there tomorrow night!

For more information please email us at info@aqabahkarate.com or call us at 301-551-5119.

Come support our FUTURE Black Belts!!!

2011-03-03T23:33:00.001-05:00

2010-2011 Winter Gup Promotions!

2011-03-03T21:48:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to all the students who were recently promoted during this Winter Gup Cycle.

We are all very proud of your hard work and commitment. Your new belt is a sign of your dedication and progress.

Tiny Tiger

White Belt Yellow Stripe

Amira Eltoumi

Uthman Guadalupe

Moaz Ibrahim

Asiya Khokar

Suleiman Khokar

White Belt Orange Stripe

Hadi

Rayyan Nahavandi

Afreen Reza

Hamza Yasir

White Belt Brown Stripe

Abdurrahman Barrie

Zubair Potter

White Belt Blue Stripe

Musab Saraswat

White Belt Purple Stripe

Abdussamad Faris

White Belt Red Stripe

Zakaria Jaweed

Rawan Alhabashi

White Belt Gold Stripe

Hamza Muhib

Youth Warriors

White Belt Black Stripe

Tasneem Odeh

Soha Mustafa

Mahdi Dinarsakti

Iman Hussain

Yasmeen Chapman

Yahya Ali

Orange Belt

Amal Hossain

Maryam Muhib

Reem Saleh

Orange Belt White Stripe

Yusuf Abdullah

Adam Korme

Rafi Sagoro

Areeb Karim

Green Belt

Mahmood Mansour

Hamza Khan

Green Belt White Stripe

Moosa Jaweed

Sayeemah Ahmed

Abdul Shahid Rahim

Brown Belt

Omar Ali

Marwa Mansour

Brown Belt White Stripe

Nadia Ali

Rahaf Alhabashi

Renad Alhabashi

Red Belt White Stripe

Aliya Siddiqui

Black Belt Candidates

Muhammad Zakaria

Nur Siddiqui

Ayisha Korme

Adnan Zaber

Talha Muhib

Tasneem Mansour

Adult Women

White Belt Black Stripe

Aynur Abdurrazzak

Orange Belt

Areege Jendi

Sarah Ali

Orange Belt White Stripe

Ayesha Mustafa

Samiyah Mustafa

Basma Nada

Green Belt White Stripe

Aisha Ali

Wendy Diaz

Brown Belt

Anam Khatib

Ruqaiyyah Rahim

Jalees Rahim

Red Belt

Ayesha Akhtar

Haajar Eberle

Rahma Zakaria

Adult Men

White Belt Black Stripe

Afnan Hossain

Sidique Furet

Ammar Habib

Orange Belt

Muhammad Abdullah

Orange Belt White Stripe

Samir Kabir

Bilal Faris

Brown Belt

Arif Kabir

Red Belt

Haroon Jaweed

Red Belt White Stripe

Hisham Eberle

Sayeed Jaweed

November 2010's Student of the Month - Ayisha Korme

2010-11-07T23:56:00.008-05:00

The Review Board of Aqabah Karate is happy to announce that the November 2010's Student of the Month is AYISHA KORME.

Ayisha has been a student for over 2 years and has grown into a strong and confident Young Warrior. She is currently a Red Belt White Stripe and is among the senior students at Aqabah Karate. She exemplifies leadership, dedication, and hard work often leading class and setting a great example for the rest of her peers.

Ayisha is one of the few female students that actively participates in competitions. She recently captured 3rd place in sparring at the Battle of Baltimore Martial Arts World Championships. In addition, she has participated in the Islamic Games and the US Goodwill Tang Soo Do Championships, capturing gold and silver medals.

We are very proud of her accomplishments and look forward to more great things from Ayisha.

Join Aqabah Karate in congratulating Ayisha for her achievements. May Allah continue to grant her success. Congratulations Ayisha!

Aqabah Goes to Battle!!!

2010-10-28T16:30:00.002-04:00

By: Wendy Diaz
Source: The Muslim Link

Aqabah Karate went to combat full force on Sunday, October 17, 2010 at Essex Community College in Essex, Maryland. The battlefield was set and the soldiers were readied, but there were no weapons involved; just fierce competition at the 28th annual Battle of Baltimore Martial Arts World Championships.

Last year only one competitor held the standard for Team Aqabah, but this time 14 students competed in the massive open tournament which hosts 232 Karate divisions along with 50 Kung Fu and Grappling divisions. Over 1000 people crammed the athletic center, including spectators, judges, and participants. Although the Aqabah Karate warriors were heavily outnumbered, they pulled through and managed to bring home a total of 9 trophies.

The majority of the Aqabah competitors were under 13 years old, yet their thirst for victory was unrivaled. As they sat waiting for their individual competitions to begin, their eyes were attentive, their minds focused, and their bodies tense. When asked how he felt about competing for the first time in the 8-9 years beginner’s forms division, Rafi Sagoro, 8, simply said, “Very excited!” His father, Bayu Sagoro, admitted his son had worked hard in order to prepare for the tournament. Sagoro said, “He did this all by himself. He practiced every day.”

Another Aqabah student who was making his competition debut was Arif Kabir, and although he took 3rd place in both Karate forms and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, he expressed that the experience he gained was most valuable. He said, “It really helped me to reassess myself and understand what needs work and refinement.”

Aqabah parents cheered as they watched their children showcase their skills. Moira McGuire, whose children, Zakariya and Ayisha Korme, captured trophies in forms and sparring, brought her whole family to support the Aqabah Karate students. She said,

“We want them to have the opportunity to compete and learn how to be good winners and also how to be good losers.” The Guadalupe family, parents of instructor Hernan Guadalupe, who also competed and won 2nd place in Kung Fu forms and 3rd in Karate forms, came all the way from New Jersey, just to cheer on their son and his students.
“We always support him in everything he does,” said Hernan’s father, Walter.

Both instructors, Muhib Rahman and Hernan were present to coach and encourage the students and their efforts did not go unnoticed. Although the arena was congested with mobs at each post, Arif Kabir recalls seeing Instructor Muhib rushing through crowds to aid whichever competitor from Aqabah had reached their turn. He said, “SubhanAllah, it really made me reflect on how much care the instructors must have for us, that instead of having us run to their commands for once, they were rushing to cheer and motivate us.”

Once the battle was over, the warriors packed their gear and their trophies, their indomitable spirit apparent on their joyous faces, and out of the sports arena they walked triumphantly into the radiant sunlit afternoon.

Aqabah's Conquest @ Battle of Baltimore 2010 - The Action Continues! - (Aqabah SPYCAM video)

2010-10-22T09:39:00.001-04:00

Aqabah Karate's SPYCAM @ Battle of Baltimore 2010

2010-10-22T09:39:00.000-04:00

Fall 2010 Belt Promotion List

2010-10-22T00:34:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to all those who earned their new belts during the Fall 2010 testing cycle. We are proud of everyone's efforts. Keep up all the hard work and keep representing for Team Aqabah!

Tiny Tigers

Maryam Muhib - White Belt Black Stripe
Reem Saleh - White Belt Black Stripe

Hamza Muhib - White Belt Blue Stripe

Musab Saraswat - White Belt Red Stripe
Tasneem Odeh - White Belt Red Stripe

Zaki Jaweed - White Belt Purple Stripe

Abdussamad Faris - White Belt Brown Stripe
Rawan Al-Habashy - White Belt Brown Stripe
Hafsah Ghori - White Belt Brown Stripe

Suhaib Ghori - White Belt Green Stripe
Soha Mustafa - White Belt Green Stripe

Abdurrahman Barrie - White Belt Orange Stripe

Afreen Reza - White Belt Yellow Stripe

Young Warriors

Talha Muhib – Red Belt White Stripe
Tahmid Hussain – Red Belt White Stripe
Muhammad Zakaria – Red Belt White Stripe
Ayesha Korme – Red Belt White Stripe
Tasneem Mansour – Red Belt White Stripe
Adnan Zaber – Red Belt White Stripe*
Mumin Odeh – Red Belt White Stripe*
Raneem Saleh – Red Belt White Stripe*

Alia Siddiqi – Red Belt
Nur Siddiqi – Red Belt

Renad Al-Habashy – Brown Belt
Nadia Ali – Brown Belt
Rahaf Al-Habashy – Brown Belt

Marwa Mansour – Green Belt White Stripe
Burhan Kmt – Green Belt White Stripe
Omar Ali – Green Belt White Stripe

Moosa Jaweed – Green Belt
Abdul Shahid Rahim – Green Belt
Sayeemah Ahmed – Green Belt
Sumayyah Ghori – Green Belt
Adam Korme – Orange Belt
Yusuf Muhammad – Orange Belt
Areed Karim – Orange Belt
Rafi Sagoro – Orange Belt
Bilqis Scott – Orange Belt
Batool Ali – Orange Belt
Asiya Scott – Orange Belt

Jahid Ali – White Belt Black Stripe
ZamZam – White Belt Black Stripe

Adult Women

Haajar Eberle - Brown Belt White Stripe
Yusra Eberle - Brown Belt White Stripe
Rahma Zakaria - Brown Belt White Stripe
Ayesha Akhtar Brown Belt White Stripe

Anam Khatib - Green Belt White Stripe
Jalees Rahim - Green Belt White Stripe
Ruqaiyyah Rahim - Green Belt White Stripe

Aisha Ali - Green Belt
Wendy Diaz - Green Belt

Basma Nada - Orange Belt
Samiyah Mustafa - Orange Belt
Ayesha Mustafa - Orange Belt

Rahmah Muhammad - White Belt Black Stripe
Sara Ali - White Belt Black Stripe

Adult Men

Sayeed Jaweed - Red Belt

Samir Kabir - Orange Belt

Did you save the date yet!?!

2010-10-11T21:47:00.004-04:00

November 11th, 2010 is right around the corner and we are looking forward to hosting Grandmaster David Sgro for a special, one-day seminar.

Grandmaster Sgro is currently living Guatemala, but is flying to the United States to visit local dojangs and share his 35-years plus of Martial Arts knowledge.

We are fortunately enough to have him visit our school and share with us as well.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR if you haven't done so yet.

November 11th, 2010!

4:00pm to 5:00pm - Exclusive class for Young Warrior Boys

6:00pm to 8:30 pm - Exclusive class for Adult Men

$5.00 for all Aqabah Karate Students

Want to learn more about Grandmaster Sgro? Click here to find out more...

For more information contact us at info@aqabahkarate.com or call us at 240-565-8709.

Tenets Tee Now Available!!!

2010-09-30T09:57:00.002-04:00

Now available in Youth and Adult sizes.

Please contact us at 240-565-8709 or email us at info@aqabahkarate.com to place your order!!!

Supply is limited so hurry and purchase yours today!!!

Uthman Eberle's Grappling Debut @ 2010 NAGA Championships

2010-09-30T09:25:00.005-04:00

Check out Uthman's grappling debut at the 2010 North American Grappling Association Championship on our Facebook or Youtube Channels:

Aqabah's Grappling Duo Do it Right at NAGA!

2010-09-26T12:13:00.006-04:00

This past Saturday, our very own Aqabah Karate instructor, Uthman Eberle, and "The Grappling Phenom", Altan Eringkoc, represented Aqabah Karate at the North American Grappling Association (NAGA) Championships in Landover, Maryland.

They have been training consistently over the past few months increasing their knowledge of jiu-j']itsu in preparation for this tournament. Their hard work paid off.

Uthman went 1-1 for the day, winning his first match by points in a dominant fashion but losing in the second match by points in the last few seconds. This was Uthman's first ever grappling tournament. It was a great learning experience for him and he will only get better with time.

Altan competed in the men's featherweight master's division. He had a tough fight in his first match, going back and forth on points, positions, and submission attempts. He successfully finished the day capturing the silver medal in his division.

Aqabah Karate would like to congratulate Uthman and Altan for their hardwork and success.

(In the picture: Altan being congratulated by a fellow competitor after medaling at the NAGA tournament on 9/25/10 at Fedex Field, Landover, MD)

Aqabah Karate Newsletter - Sept/Oct 2010

2010-09-18T11:42:00.000-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More tang soo do

August 2010's Student of the Month - Sayeemah Ahmed

2010-08-08T01:19:00.002-04:00

The Review Board of Aqabah Karate is happy to announce that the August 2010's Student of the Month is SAYEEMAH AHMED.

Sayeemah Ahmed joined Aqabah Karate almost a year and a half ago as a tiny tiger. She was very shy and timid in the beginning. But very soon her special qualities began to emerge and Sayeemah showed tremendous talent in both physical techniques and overall class conduct.

In her first competition at the Islamic Games in NJ she took first place in a very competitive sparring division. We ask all of you to make dua for her continued success.

She is now an orange belt in the Young Warrior class.

Join Aqabah Karate in congratulating Sayeemah for her achievements. May Allah continue to grant her success. Congratulations Sayeemah!

Giving the Dojang a face lift!

2010-07-26T13:54:00.007-04:00

Al-hamdulillah, over the past weekend we have managed to cleaned the Dojang inside-out.

We rolled up our sleevs, threw on our gloves, and got straight to business. We mopped the mats and the the floor underneath the mats and replaced the old tape on the seams and added sealant to the tapes.

Thank you too those brothers and sisters who gave us a little bit of their time and got their hands dirty. The Dojang looks great, but we want to make sure that we keep it 'spic and span'.

Some general rules we want to share with everyone so we can maintain our Dojang:

1. It is not a general playground or a hangout place for anyone. Only registered supervised students of Aqabah karate, summer camp, hifz program and Salah congregants may use this surface.

2. No food and drinks on the mat

3. Do not place any chairs and tables directly on the mat surface. This has placed many tears on the surface.

4. The hifz carpets should no longer be placed on the mats. The carpets have a rough surface and dragging them around the mats have resulted in the tapes peeling off. Plus they are very dirty and beginning to smell. Insha-Allah we will find a better solution for the hifz students.

5. Last but not least, we thank Allah for blessing us with the highest quality mat for the children who attend the martial arts program. It is community property and it is a trust from Allah. Lets take care of it.

Register Today!!! All-Female Basic Self-Defense 18-Hour Course!

2010-07-16T17:16:00.023-04:00

Click on the flyer for more information or email us at info@aqabahkarate.com

Registration closed

Lets get ready to RRRRRUMMMMBLE! - US Capitol Classics approaches!

2010-07-16T16:31:00.003-04:00

LETS GET READY TO RRRUUMBLLLLLE!!

Gather your sparring gear, polish your presentation and sharpen your forms. Aqabah Karate is planning to compete in the upcoming US Capitol Classics on July 31, 2010. Event venue is:

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
201 Waterfront Street
National Harbor, MD 20745
(301) 965-4000

Our team will be lead by Head Instructor Hernan Guadalupe. Any questions? Please write to him at hernan@aqabahkarate.com

The US Capitol Classics is the largest Martial Arts tournament in the DC metro area. It has competition opportunities for all ages and for all levels. It is open to any styles so that means you can test yourself against students of Kung Fu, Tae Kwon do, Kick-boxing etc. Isn't that AWESOME?

Each competitor must REGISTER individually by visiting the following website:

http://www.uscapitolclassics.com/

Belt Promotions Ceremony - All are welcome to attend!

2010-07-16T16:28:00.001-04:00

It is our pleasure to announce the promotions (from June 2010 test) of the following students. New Belts will be given out on the following days. There will be no regular class on the promotion days; however, family members, friends and supporters are highly encouraged to attend:

Location, Aqabah karate studio - 5301 Edgewood Road College Park.

Monday, 7-19-10, 4-5pm
Hafsa Ghori
Maryam Muhib
Ramlah Amsa
Rawan El Habashy
Reem Saleh
Tasneem Odeh
Soha Mustafa
Eiman Imran
Marwa Mansour
Rahaf El Habashy
Renad El-Habashy
Sayeemah Ahmed
Sumayyah Ghori
Tasneem Mansour
Nadia Ali

Tuesday, 7-20-10, 4-5pm
Abdurrahman Barrie
Abdussamad Faris
Hamza Muhib
Muhammad Mavins
Rafi Sagore
Suhaib Ghori
Zakariah Jaweed
Areeb Karim
Omar Ali
Siraj Khan
Yusuf Abdullah

Congratulations!

Women-Only Self-Defense Seminar a Success

2010-07-15T10:46:00.003-04:00

Al-Hamdulillah, Aqabah Karate's first, women-only self-defense seminar on July 10 at the Clarion Inn Hotel was a tremendous success. This was a two hour seminar. A big thank you to all who attended. Special thanks to Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) instructor Ayesha Mustafa and to her staff.

The seminar was open to women above 17 years old. Forty Nine, very enthusiastic, women showed up to find out that a wealth of self-defense knowledge is now available to empower them. RAD instructor Ayesha Mustafa kicked off the class with a general introduction about how we view issues of personal safety, sexual assault and domestic violence. She elaborated on the concept of survivor mentality VS. victim mentality. During the lecture, the students were allowed to ask questions and there were frank and open discussion about stigmas and other issues surrounding these sensitive topics

The second half of the seminar got into the physical part. Every attendee got a chance to break a sweat. The instructors demonstrated some techniques first, and then broke each technique down into parts so the students could follow along before having everyone do it together.

The feedback from the seminar was extremely positive. There has been a tremendous request to offer more knowledge and as a result, Aqabah Karate is already organizing (with RAD) and to host a three weekend, no holds barred, 18 hour womens-only self-defense class starting July 24, 2010.

This class will only take 14 students. Classes such as these normally cost around $500. We are able to offer this for only $140!! Alhamdulillah, but only for a very limited time. Please intend to attend. Registration details coming soon.

Wise Words, "It is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it!"

The Next Karate Kid: Could it be your child?

2010-07-07T20:26:00.006-04:00

The Next Karate Kid: Could it be your child?

The Benefits of Martial Arts Training for Children
by Hernán Guadalupe

With all the talk that is going on about martial arts due to the recent surge of block buster movies like ‘The Karate Kid’ and ‘The Last Air Bender’, people’s interest in martial arts has again sparked, but is there any real benefit for children and adults?

Putting Hollywood aside with all its jumping kicks and flips and theatrical stunts, martial arts has serious benefits to offer.

Did you know that Martial Arts training is 10 times more effective than any other team sport in developing a child’s self-esteem and confidence?

It’s not just about kicking and punching, rather it’s about developing a child’s inner and outer character and giving them the tools of confidence and discipline which they can use for the rest of their lives.

When a new student enters our school, I don’t think about him being the next world champion or the next black belt; instead, I am thinking about how he can become a better person through martial arts. We want to develop leaders and role models for our community; and martial arts, along with our unique way of life (Islam) are key factors in this process.

There is no question about it that Islam is our fundamental basis for our belief and way of life. Islam gives us the instruction and martial arts is the vehicle to implement what we learn. We teach our children that they should live healthy and moderate lives. Martial arts is the means to maintain a healthy way of life through exercise and dieting.

We teach our children to be confident and disciplined. Martial arts is the means to build a child’s confidence and develop discipline in their lives.

Martial arts is a great compliment to being Muslim. Based on our rich Islamic heritage, we know that Muslims were strong, brave, and confident people, especially the companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him). We see through their examples how they lived their lives, constantly exercising, maintaining a healthy way of life, balanced diet, and they were disciplined in pleasing Allah alone.

Living in today’s society, we don’t have the luxury of developing certain characteristics like they did. Because of this, many of our children become overweight and obese, they involve themselves in activities that don’t benefit them much like video games and they have low self-esteem and a lack of confidence. These problems have long-term effects on children.

Islam teaches us to be strong not only in relation to emaan, but also physically. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said in a hadeeth: “The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, but in both there is good.” (Muslim)

Many of the scholars mention that the strength here refers to actual physical strength and confidence. This is so because the physically strong Muslim has more strength to stand up in prayer and worship Allah without tiring. He also has the confidence and courage to call people to Islam and face adversity.

Imagine your children having this type of strength. Tell me what other sport or activity can help give your children that type of strength and character- building?

Martial arts is amazing. There is nothing more amazing than to have a new student walk into the school several weeks before who doesn’t smile, speak much, or interact with anyone in class, and after a short time is leading jumping jacks, counting out loud, and having a great time.

Martial arts is that opportunity you and your children have been looking for to develop positive, strong, and healthy personalities. It helps pave a way to success.

Ask yourself, how can anyone expect to succeed in life when they have never succeeded in anything before? Understand that success is a habit that is planted, cultivated, and nurtured.

Earlier I mentioned that martial arts is 10 times better than team sports in giving a child confidence, do you know why? You see, team sports focuses on a team effort. The team works together to reach a common goal. However, there may be times where some team members shine more than others and they carry the weight of those who are not working hard or living up to their part of the deal.

With martial arts, the goals are individualized which helps and encourages individual success and achievement. This helps build a child’s self-esteem and in return their self-worth grows.

Children begin to see themselves for the unique and valuable individuals they are and can begin to appreciate others for themselves. Martial arts teaches them that you must respect yourself before you can respect others.

Along with self-confidence, martial arts teaches children self-control. It shows children how to express themselves in a manner that is calm and cool and how to avoid conflict without the need for violence.

Being part of a martial arts program, children also learn teamwork, respect, and responsibility. Children learn to work together during exercises and drills, which helps develop their social skills along with their confidence to interact with others. Martial arts also stresses the aspect of respecting others such as the teachers and other students, as well as showing love and compassion for each other. It also stresses responsibility from the way you take care of your uniform to properly maintaining the facility in which your child trains. All of these qualities aid in developing leaders in our homes and in our communities.

Originally martial arts was developed as a means of self-preservation, to defend oneself from attack or invasion; however, spears and swords are no longer a common threat. Rather, self-doubt, feelings of worthlessness, inabilities, and lack of confidence to deal with the conflicts of day-to-day life are far greater threats on our developing children.

If martial arts can help a child see the true potential and beauty they possess inside; then why not give them that opportunity? Remember, there is no endeavor more worthy than the development and cultivation of our future ummah.

Hernán Guadalupe is the Head Instructor of Aqabah Karate. He is a 1st Degree Black Belt in Tang Soo Do and has over 12 years of Martial Arts experience.

Taken from Aqabah Karate's July 2010 Newsletter Issue 2

Aqabah Karate Newsletter - July 2010

2010-07-06T13:21:00.001-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More tang soo do

Event: Free Women-Only Self-Defense Seminar

2010-07-05T23:14:00.005-04:00

*IMPORTANT NOTE* - The venue has been change to the CLARION INN HOTEL located at 8601 Baltimore Avenue, College Park, MD!

In cooperation with Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Systems presents a

Self-Defense Seminar for women only ages 17-years and above.

Make time to attend this event. You don't want to miss this great opportunity!

**NO men, boys and children allowed.**

REGISTRATION CLOSED

July 2010's Student of the Month - Muhammad Mavins

2010-07-05T23:02:00.005-04:00

The Review Board of Aqabah Karate is happy to announce that the July 2010's Student of the Month is MUHAMMAD MAVINS.

Muhammad, 8-years old, has been training in Tang Soo Do for over 1 year.

Currently a White Belt Purple Stripe, Muhammad is one of the highest ranking Tiny Tigers Boys in Aqabah Karate.

His maturity, attention, dedication, leadership, and skill level is admired by his teachers and students alike. He has been a great role model and motivation for his fellow peers.

Just recently, we found out that Muhammad and his family were relocating to Philadelphia. This news struck sadness in our hearts knowing that we would lose such a great student and friend. However, we wish him and his family the greatest of success wherever they may be and ask Allah to bless them with with the best in this life and the hereafter. We know that he will continue to live up to the codes and tenets in his new home and be that same leader and great influence to his new peers.

Join Aqabah Karate in congratulating Muhammad for his achievements. May Allah continue to grant him success. Congratulations Muhammad! We will truly miss you!!

Our Journey to Black Belt - Day 3

2010-06-30T12:21:00.000-04:00

Our Journey to Black Belt - Day 2 (part 2)

2010-06-21T15:20:00.000-04:00

Our Journey to Black Belt - Day 2 (part 1)

2010-06-21T15:19:00.001-04:00

Our Journey to Black Belt - Day 1

2010-06-15T23:30:00.001-04:00

Aqabah Instructors Get Promoted

2010-06-15T13:47:00.000-04:00

Dear Students and Parents:

Alhamdulillah, Hernan and I successfully returned from last weekend's Black Belt Test in North Carolina. After two days of intense sessions, I received my promotion to 3rd Degree and Hernan received his 1st degree black belt.

Upon our return we were expertly ambushed by a perfectly executed surprise party that was held at our training facility. For those who could not attend the party, we love you and we missed you.

Videos and Pics from the test will be uploaded on our website soon. A sneak preview is available on our facebook page. Click the link below:

AQABAH KARATE FAN PAGE

Our success is your success. May Allah, through this, continue to make Aqabah Karate reach new heights. May all our students benefit from Martial Arts training, such that they become from among the best servants of Islam.

Throughout the test we felt the benefits of your duas and best wishes. JazakAllahu Khairan

Muhib Rahman
Program Director
Aqabah Karate
240-565-8709 Cell
www.aqabahkarate.com

Aqabah Karate Rocks Islamic Games

2010-06-09T20:32:00.000-04:00

Community News - Community News
Written by Wendy Diaz, Muslim Link Contributing Writer

You have to wonder what the other martial artists were thinking when they saw these new faces show up at the 4th Annual Islamic Games this weekend, held in Monmouth Junction, New Jersey.

Just where did Aqabah Karate come from? After all, most of the martial arts participants in the previous years of the Islamic Games were from New Jersey, Philadelphia, and New York and the surrounding areas. Veteran competitors were used to seeing familiar faces but these seemingly “New Karate Kids on the Block” turned out to be more than they expected.

Even though it was a three hour drive away, College Park, Maryland-based Aqabah Karate took students, parents, and instructors to the Islamic Games, making their 2nd competition debut, a year after their first ever martial arts tournament. This year the tournament was in an Islamic environment with only Muslim participants. The anxiety and anticipation, however, was the same for all. Aisha Ali, who competed in the young women’s division, said, “We had good competition and I thought it was a good experience. Seeing all of my friends competing helped me to feel confident. It was a lot of fun.”

Maryam Muhib, 7 years old, set the standard early on the girls side by sweeping the forms division with a gold medal. Her loud and crisp forms demonstration ended with a roaring applause from the audience. The message was clear that, “Aqabah Girls are in the House”. Twenty two Aqabah Karate competitors helped themselves to 31 medals in forms, sparring, self-defense as well as in other events like track and field. Of the medals, 11 were gold, 13 silver and 7 were bronze, MashAllah.

Men and boys were situated in one gymnasium on the campus of a local middle school, while the women and girls competed in the auxiliary gym. The Islamic Games organizers tried their best to keep the event gender segregated, making it easier and more comfortable for all participants. The Aqabah Karate women especially, were able to showcase their talents like never before, making this event an unforgettable experience. Umm Omar, mother of 3 Aqabah Karate students, said, “I think people perceive Muslim women and girls as so restricted, and these kind of events show what we can do. This is what our girls do while still upholding our Islamic values. I was really impressed.” Kamilah Abdul-Wakil from Aqabah Karate’s women’s class won 1st place in sparring and 3rd place in forms. “The tournament was really nice. I enjoyed it a lot. I think it was better for everyone (that it was segregated). Had it not been, I would not have competed,” she said.

Abdul Aziz, Kamilah’s father, commented, “I loved watching the boys and men compete. I had so much fun. From now, Insha-Allah, I am going to attend all tournaments where Aqabah is competing.”

The boys and men also enjoyed success on the other side of the campus. Arbaz Khatib, 14 years old, punched and kicked his way through serious challenges to win the gold in sparring. Zakaria Korme, 12 years old, defeated almost 20 competitors to win gold in forms. The instructors also competed and brought home 3 silvers and a bronze.

“Everyone did outstanding. Especially my sisters in Aqabah Karate, I am so proud of them. For a lot of them it was their first competition and the only kind in the area that is closed to men, plus exclusively for Muslims. The sisters did not want to let go of this opportunity and so they gladly took the three hour trip from Maryland to Jersey with their families. They showed so much courage, MashAllah.” says Br Muhib, director of Aqabah Karate.

Spectators congratulated the Marylanders on their success and were in awe at their skills and abilities. One community member from New Jersey asked how they could establish an Aqabah Karate in their masjid. Aqabah Karate students were able to interact with students from other schools and compare knowledge and know-how. Since the tournament was open, there were different styles and arts displayed, giving everyone a chance to see a variety of forms and defense techniques. For Aqabah Karate, the Islamic Games was both a competition and a learning experience.

The Islamic Games, established in 1987 but growing considerably since 2007, is an event which brings together Muslim athletes from all around the country. Currently it takes place in the Northeast, Midwest, and in the Southeast. One of the most popular categories of the Games is Martial Arts, where participants from all the Islamic Martial Arts schools compete to see who comes out on top. This time, Aqabah Karate did just that.

For more pictures please visit our picture gallery.

About Aqabah Karate

2010-06-09T20:27:00.000-04:00

Aqabah Karate is an all-inclusive martial arts facility serving the DC-Metro area. We provide many opportunities for improving one’s fitness and developing self- confidence through Traditional Korean Tang Soo Do, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Cardio-Karate programs in a fun, safe, family-oriented, Islamic environment.

Learn how to reduce stress and anxiety, increase balance, energy, awareness and confidence, gain inner and outer strength, all while getting into the best shape of your life!

Interested? Then why not try a FREE class today! Click on the link below and start benefiting from our amazing programs.

REGISTER TODAY!!

Aqabah Karate Newsletter - May 2010

2010-05-03T19:23:00.000-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More weight-loss

Aqabah Karate Open House a Success!

2010-03-12T20:17:00.000-05:00

By Wendy Diaz, Contributing Writer

Aqabah Karate at Dar-us-Salaam hosted its second open house on Friday, March 12, 2010. The doors opened to the eager crowd at 4pm and offered spectators a chance to sit on the red mats of the karate studio located in the basement level of Al Huda School. The visitors and parents of Aqabah students were welcomed by Instructors Muhib Rahman and Hernan Guadalupe and were provided with pamphlets highlighting the benefits of enrolling. Aqabah Karate students were pleased to have an opportunity to display their talents and share their experiences with prospective students and parents.

The open house consisted of several sessions with presentations divided by age group and gender. The “Tiny Tigers” of Aqabah, who start from ages 5 to 7, were the first to showcase their abilities with some pad work and sparring demonstrations. Both the girls and the boys participated separately as proud parents looked on. Next, “Young Warrior” boys, ages 8-12 wowed the audience doing a jump and roll sequence in which they leaped over instructor, Muhib Rahman and rolled into a standing position on padded mats. They also showed some grappling techniques which are also incorporated into the Aqabah Karate curriculum. The Young Warrior girls impressed spectators performing one of their many forms, a series of movements, stances, punches, and kicks.

At the start of each session, Muhib Rahman and Hernan Guadalupe spoke about the many benefits of participating in martial arts and why Aqabah Karate is the best choice for both children and adults. Both spoke about their own experiences in the field and how they chose to incorporate this art into their Islamic way of life. After a brief introduction, the men’s exhibit began with self defense techniques and a grappling challenge for members of the audience. Four volunteers were given the opportunity to grapple with Hernan Guadalupe in order to submit him, all of which failed, proving to the audience that they need to enroll and learn valuable techniques of self defense in order to have better control in hostile situations.

Doors were closed to men after 6:30pm to allow the adult female students of Aqabah access to the mats for their presentation. Female instructor, Amanda Pereira, led the women while they performed two of their forms and also self defense techniques. Although the audience was captivated by their display, they were most impressed after seeing what a typical round of calisthenic exercises for the adult female class looked like. Amanda Pereira also participated in the demos, performing one of her black belt advanced forms, and she addressed questions from the sisters, who were the biggest turnout of the evening.

Each of the sessions was followed by an open question and answer session with the audience in which more specific information was presented to those interested in the program. The open house was a huge success, as more students enrolled in Aqabah Karate and more are likely to give it a try.

To see pictures from our open house please visit our picture gallery.

Why Aqabah Karate?

2010-03-11T20:28:00.000-05:00

Being part of Aqabah Karate will enhance all aspects of your life. The beauty of martial arts training is that it compliments our way of life as Muslims. A true martial artist leads a healthy lifestyle, has high-self esteem and offers no excuses for doing good to benefit others. Islam also demands these qualities from Muslims. This is why we feel that Aqabah Karate is for you.

Physically, Aqabah Karate will help you increase your coordination, flexibility, agility, speed, and stamina. Students will experience significant improvements in their overall physical fitness and health within a short period of time.

Our programs also offer the added benefit of self-defense utilizing a great range of punches, kicks, joint-locking, throwing, grappling, and ground fighting techniques. This aspect of martial arts provides our students with the skills necessary to build their self-confidence and abilities for self-protection.

However, the most unique characteristic that separates us from any other typical martial arts center is the Islamic environment that Aqabah Karate offers our students. Our program is catered to upholding our Islamic values and principles. We are the only martial arts school in Maryland to offer such a program.

Remember that the Prophet of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) stated in a hadeeth:

“The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer while there is good in both.” (Muslim)

Aqabah Karate offers a fully equipped training facility in an Islamic environment, first-rated instructors, and a vibrant student body to aid you in becoming stronger in all aspects of life.

We invite you to visit our facility and try a two trial classes for FREE.

Aqabah Karate Class Schedule

2010-01-01T23:00:00.001-05:00

Aqabah Karate Has Its Own World Champion

2009-12-04T16:48:00.000-05:00

Community News -

Community News Written by Contributing Writer, Wendy-Diaz

Friday, 04 December 2009 22:51

After numerous victories in their first tournament earlier this year, Aqabah Karate shined once again, welcoming home Hernan Abu Uthman Guadalupe from the Battle of Baltimore World Championships held at Essex Community College in Essex, MD.

Abu Uthman captured two world titles in Traditional Karate and Kung-Fu forms and placed second in Men’s Sparring and third in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He was the only competitor representing Team Aqabah, but he made sure to leave a lasting impression for the school.

“Participating at the tournament was my way to give Aqabah Karate publicity. I wanted other schools and competitors to know about our school and to know that Muslims are practicing martial arts, as well,” says Abu Uthman of his eagerness to compete. “I also competed to test myself and to see how I compare to other martial artists at my level.”

Abu Uthman is the latest addition to the Aqabah Karate staff assisting with both children and adult classes. He practiced the art of Kung Fu in his teens and is no rookie to martial arts tournaments; however, he took a 10 year break to focus on his education and his career.

Just nine months ago, Abu Uthman found himself significantly overweight and concerned for his health. He decided he needed to change his lifestyle and joined Aqabah Karate. After only a few months, he lost 50lbs and won titles in a number of top-level competitions, including the Battle of Baltimore.

“It was a great experience all in all. I received a lot of great feedback from a number of masters and judges. They were very impressed with our school and our level of training,” said Abu Uthman.

Aqabah Karate was not the only Muslim martial arts school present. Al Azhar Silat school also competed, as well as other Muslim martial artists from several schools. Abu Uthman said he was excited to see other Muslims during the championships.

“Seeing and competing against other Muslims made the tournament that much more fun. You knew you weren’t totally alone since there were other brothers and sisters participating and showcasing their skills. It was nice to be among them and to show them what Aqabah is capable of.”

There is no doubt that the instructors and students of Aqabah Karate are really making a name for themselves: from participating in competitions to in-house belt promotions. Now with a reigning champ in their midst, the school hopes greater accomplishments will take place. More battles are sure to come and Team Aqabah will be there to meet the challenge, insha’Allah.

The contributing writer is a member of Team Aqabah - TML

Aqabah Karate Brings Home the Gold

2009-07-17T16:52:00.000-04:00

Written by Wendy Diaz, Muslim Link Contributing Writer

Friday, 17 July 2009 15:04

Aqabah Karate proved to be a force to be reckoned with on Saturday, June 27 at the 4th Annual United States Goodwill Tang Soo Do Association National Championship in Waldorf, Md.

Team Aqabah, led by Muhib Rahman, participated in their first tournament in school history. Even though most of their competitors were rookies, they came home as champions, racking up a total of 62 medals - 28 gold, 21 silver, and 13 bronze. Aqabah also received the trophy for the “Most Supportive School.”

The tournament, located in the Capital Clubhouse, included over 200 competitors. Grandmaster Song Ki Kim, who has practiced Tang Soo Do for more than 50 years, made a special appearance in the tournament after flying from Korea.

Muslim families met together in support of the men, women, and children representing Aqabah Karate. The competitors wowed the audience.

“Muslims can get down, too,” one member of the audience said.

Of the more than 20 east coast schools participating in the tournament, Aqabah had the most number of participants, even though the students learned of the tournament with little time to prepare, said Abu Uthman Hernan, assistant instructor of Aqabah Karate.

“We announced it to the students only two weeks in advance and the amount of dedication that they put forth in those two weeks to strengthen their forms and their sparring was absolutely amazing,” said Hernan, himself a black belt candidate who brought home two gold medals. “The kids worked hard to get themselves physically and mentally prepared and it paid off.”

Black Belt Team Sparring was the first event. Aqabah's team consisted of head instructor Muhib Rahman, assistant instructor Abu Uthman and women’s instructor Saira Khan. The men sparred against men and the women sparred against women.

It was a great motivation for the team to watch their instructors compete first, according to Rahman.

“I wanted to lead from the front,” Rahman said. “I did not think I would participate again after 11 years, but I wanted to encourage my students because most of them were competing for the first time and they were nervous.”

Rahman demonstrated that there was nothing to be nervous about and led his team courageously, losing third place by only one point, but receiving Honorable Mention in Team Sparring. The confident students took their places in their respective rings and the fierce competition began simultaneously in all corners of the arena.

The Aqabah competitors’ families gathered along the walls and the rings in support of their loved ones and soon enough, the students were being called to the podium to receive medals.

“I enjoyed seeing all the participants getting medals: first, second, and third place,” said Khan, who also competed in the individual competitions and brought home a medal.

However, watching her students winning was the highlight of her day.

“I liked seeing the excitement in their eyes,” she said.

This event opened many doors for Muslim athletes to feel comfortable about competing without compromising their beliefs, some participants said.

“Every time someone from Aqabah Karate stood on that podium to receive their awards, my heart just lit up with joy and happiness for that Muslim sister or brother,” said another adult competitor from Aqabah Karate.

KhadijaThe judges and staff were very supportive of the contestants’ religious beliefs, allowing them certain liberties not common to the other schools. For example, bowing is a gesture of respect within martial arts, but Rahman explained to the organizers of the event that Muslims only bow to Allah. The judges also recognized the Islamic prohibitions of shaking hands between opposite genders.

Both students and their families were pleased with the level of respect that the staff had for the Islamic traditions.

“I think we gave a good impression and I think it was a positive reaction,” said Ilyas Korme, the father of two Aqabah students, Zakariya and Aisha. “I would definitely encourage my children to participate in future tournaments.”

The younger group of Aqabah students seemed to be the most thrilled by this event.

“Even though I didn’t win, I still got a certificate from the people who sponsored,” said Aisha Korme, a 9-year-old brown belt. “Everyone would get something and I thought that was a big thing.”

Another 9-year-old brown belt, Sukina Abdul Wakeel, who won a bronze medal in sparring, said her favorite part of the tournament was watching the black belt masters compete. Talha Muhib, Rahman’s son, said his most memorable moments were “getting medals.”

Parents were also proud of the school’s achievement.

“It was very exciting and it was a good opportunity for Muslims to participate is such a sporting event,” said Habib Ali, the father of competitor Omar Ali. “[Aqabah’s] success reflects that their training is in accordance with the standards of other schools and it means the coaches are doing a good job.”

Assistant instructor Uthman Eberle, 20, said he got a lot of positive feedback.

“People were impressed that there is a good Muslim school doing Karate,” he said. “But there is still a lot of work to do.”

The tournament wrapped up with the last of the participants packing up their medals and belts, but the competitive spirit of Aqabah Karate lives on, dedicated to success at the highest level.

For more pictures visit our picture gallery.

Exclusive Interview with Muhib Rahman

2009-07-17T16:50:00.000-04:00

Written by Wendy Diaz, Muslim Link Contributing Writer

Muhib Rahman is a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Tang Soo Do and the Head Instructor of Aqabah Karate.

ML: What was your overall impression of the tournament?

MR: It was very good. I thought it was very well organized. It was small and that is what we needed for our school since it was a first time tournament. The organizers were very accommodating to our religious and cultural needs. So overall, the tournament went very well, we did really well. I think it was a big success.

ML: Did you participate?

MR: After 11 years, I thought I would not participate again but I did only because I wanted to lead from the front. A lot of my students were competing, actually most of them, were competing for the first time so I wanted to encourage them. A lot of them were nervous and scared so I told them that even me who didn’t practice in a while, after 11 years, I wanted to show them that there is nothing to be scared or to be nervous about.

ML: What was the parent’s reaction to the tournament afterwards?

MR: All the reactions that I got were definitely overwhelmingly satisfactory. They were very happy; some had never gone to karate tournaments and some may have gone before but they really thought this was well put together and they also liked the fact that we went as a team. So they really liked it and they are looking forward to more tournaments.

ML: What do you think this tournament means to Aqabah Karate?

MR: It is definitely a step forward, a big step forward because the program has been here for a long time, but only in the last year and a half has it taken a lot of structure. The tournament itself was a big step in making the structure bigger and more established. So for the students it was motivating and they are motivated to train right now so insha’Allah, I am hoping it will bring good to the program and to our host Dar-us-Salaam.

ML: What were some of the highlights of the tournament? What did you enjoy the most?

MR: Definitely watching the students getting their medals. It was awesome to see our girls, boys, and even the women taking their medals, getting on the podium for everyone to see that the Muslims are part of their society and they are very competitive and willing to put their best forward.