The Phoenix Group hosted its third annual Black Belt Retreat over August 6-8, 2021 in Fairbanks, Alaska. 61 students and instructors attended, representing the Phoenix Group and USITF organizations from 12 states. Spirits were high as we trained together in person for the first time in nearly a year and a half. There were excellent presentations covering a variety of topics:

• Stretching - Kier Reinhardt
• Taekwon-Do Fundamentals - Master William Howard
• Special Needs - Vicki Harbison
• Knife Defenses - Master Steve Blakely
• Integrating Boxing Fundamentals - Matt Lepley
• First Aid Training - Amanda Cheney
• Pain and Its Management - Dr. Karen Kramer
• Team Building - Doug Anderson
• Developing Speed - Matt Lepley

There was also an official Team USA workout after the retreat for anyone interested in being considered for the 2022 Team USA. The event was supported by Solstice Taekwon-Do Club and hosted at Midnight Sun Martial Arts Academy and Lost Lake campground.