What does competing in tournaments do for the martial artist?

So, the question we often get when we hold a Cervizzi's Martial Arts tournament is; why should my child compete? or if an adult, why should I compete? or that's not my thing.  My response is multi faceted: Competing does a lot!  It allows the Child/Student the chance to participate in a fun event and stand up in front of judges and put their best foot forward - (no pun intended).  The student is allowed to compete in forms, sparring weapons, board breaking and grappling.  Each division brings something new to the student and the effort they put forth in preparing is wonderful to see.  It takes courage to get up in front of judges who they may or may not know and be "judged" in forms or weapons.    In Sparring, they are trying to win and get points against the opponent, it sharpens their skills and it also takes courage to spar, sometimes more than one or 2 other students. They get through the nerves and anxiety, that we as adults would feel, and get in the ring and just let it all out.  They learn to respect the other  participant and encourage and support others in their division.  They show good sportsmanship, they shake hands with their competitors and learn humility and dignity.  They learn to overcome disappointment and be happy for others achievements and how to cope with loss and how not to show off when they win.  Where else can you find an event that teaches all of those life lessons?  We have an upcoming tournament in June and I encourage all of our students to participate, even just once to get the experience.  We have all ages compete form age 4 to age 60+. Martial arts is a lifetime, not just a a time in your life.   As always, I can be reached at cervizzis@aol.com  - Sensei Janice