09/13/2026
BLACK BELT EARNED.
A huge congratulations to Mr. Joey McAdams on successfully completing his Black Belt Test on Saturday September 12, 2026!
Mr. McAdams persevered through about 4 hours of testing, pushing himself mentally and physically from beginning to end. The test concluded with five straight minutes of continuous sparring, finishing with a 5-on-1 challenge.
Tired? Absolutely.
Finished? Not until the job was done.
That is perseverance. That is commitment. That is what earning a Black Belt is all about.
We are extremely proud of the hard work, dedication, and determination Mr. Joey McAdams has shown throughout his journey. Today he crossed a line that very few who begin martial arts ever reach — and we look forward to watching him continue to grow in the next chapter of his martial arts journey.
We would also like to extend a very special thank-you to our visiting martial arts family who came to support Mr. McAdams:
Grandmaster Vera Harrison — Peoria, Illinois
Grandmaster JT Sharp — Forsyth/Decatur, Illinois
Grandmaster Steve Oh — Springfield, Illinois
Grandmaster Patty Auvenshine — Auburn, Illinois
Master Twyla Kitsos — Forsyth/Decatur, Illinois
And a huge thank-you to all of our Walker’s Martial Arts students and families who came out to encourage, support, and push Mr. McAdams through the finish.
Having that level of experience, friendship, and martial arts support in the room made an already memorable day even more special.
Congratulations, Mr. McAdams.
You didn’t just receive a Black Belt today. You earned it.
We are proud of you!
Walker’s Martial Arts
Where Families Kick Together
Confidence • Community • Connection
(photo credit Angelica Walker)
