By Drew Moody
For the Hur Herald
Gilmer County Sheriff Micky Metz was honored in
Orlando, Florida last weekend for his continuing contribution
in the field of martial arts.
Metz was recognized as Master Instructor of the Year
during by the World Head Of Family Sokeship Council (WHFSC)
at its International Hall of Fame Awards ceremony.
He
has been honored several times by the organization, including
being presented with a humanitarian award, police tactics
instructors award, regional instructor of the year, and
regional leadership award.
Sheriff Metz is recognized as martial arts master and has
black belt degrees in four different styles of karate. In one
style he has achieved a fifth-degree black belt, as well as
the ranking of a third-degree in two others.
As a result of his membership in the WHFSC Metz has
met many well-known martial artists including: Chuck
Norris, Steven Seagal, Jackie Chan and Westley Snipes.
"Chuck Norris is the nicest person you'll ever want to
meet," Metz said. Of Jackie Chan, Metz said he's just
like he is in the movies.
Metz continues to teach karate every Friday night at
the Glenville State College Fitness Center.
"You're never too old to start," the sheriff said.
His oldest beginner was 62. Metz has also seen
people with significant physical disabilities, including
blindness, achieve advanced degrees.
Matial arts, in general, is often misunderstood by the public.
"Anybody can hurt someone," Metz said. But martial
arts are "about being able to defend yourself without hurting
the other person."
Metz is also a Police Martial Arts certified tactical baton and
handcuff instructor.
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