PEABODY– In 1978, Bruce McCorry’s Martial Arts began teaching people in and around Peabody self-respect, discipline, and confidence through martial arts. 45 years later, Masters Bruce McCorry and Sandra LaRosa are continuing that mission.
When McCorry first took an interest in martial arts, it was very unique. “I can’t say [it was] new into the country,” said McCorry, “it was like this “Power Rangers” type thing to me. It was a cool thing for a little kid. That’s what got me hooked.”
LaRosa said she had just been looking for a new way to exercise when she found martial arts. She fell in love when she realized that it nourished more than just her body. “It helped mind and body. It wasn’t just about the kicking and the punching. It covered everything… plus a good community.”
For the pair, teaching martial arts is more than just a job. Both got their start just helping out at their own lessons. Eventually, they became the instructors. “I took a real liking to teaching, helping people,” said McCorry. LaRosa described her plunge into teaching, “It takes someone different to actually relate to everybody. And you know, that’s OK and I found that you know I like [helping] someone and make a difference in adults’ and children’s lives.”
But just because they are instructors does not mean they have not learned anything in four-and-a-half decades. Both said the biggest lesson they have learned is to have patience. McCorry said, “Because not everyone is a perfect athletic person. Everybody learns differently. Some people learn by looking some people learn by reading.”
But one thing has remained the same– the importance of balance. McCorry said that his teaching philosophy is focused on the present, not the sadness of yesterday or the fear of tomorrow. He explained, “We don’t do too much martial arts and we don’t do too much art.”
“Attitude is everything. How do you look at the world? Yeah, I woke up today– it’s awesome! Other people– it’s snowing so it’s lousy out,” said McCorry.
When asked about the future, the duo said they are trying to stay old-school while also keeping up with the modern world. They are keeping the values of martial arts and helping people a priority over the business end. As LaRosa said, “We might not be new, but we love what we do.”
