Two Blue Valley sisters tested at Ko Martial Arts to become black belts in taekwondo Oct. 8. Sophomore Hiba Atra and senior Hadil Atra started taekwondo in 2012 — Hiba was 12, Hadil was 14.

“[Hiba] wanted to join because her friend was in [taekwondo],” Hadil said. “We decided to join [together.]”

When they began, Hadil said she didn’t think she would become a black belt.

“At first [taekwondo felt] weird,” Hadil said. “I [thought] ‘This is strange.’ But then, as I grew up,  I began to love it more — so I decided I would become a black belt.”

Both sisters said they were anxious before their test began.

“Overall, I was nervous because it was scary to test in front of [people],” Hadil said.

During the assessment, they had to perform several different tasks: combinations, forms, sparring and board breaking. Each expressed what they felt were their strengths.

“I was really proud of my board breaking and my poomsae forms,” Hadil said, “I had practiced [them] a lot.”

The sisters said they are delighted with their results — both of them are officially black belts.

Hadil said she was happy the test was done — this opens up new opportunities for her.

“I’m really glad it’s finally over,” Hadil said, “I’m excited to officially be an assistant instructor.”

Hiba said she had the highest score out of those who were eligible to become a black belt.

“I’m really happy [about my score],” Hiba said. “I strive to be the best.”

The virtues Hadil has learned — and will continue to learn — in taekwondo will assist her later in life, she said.

“It teaches me discipline — how to be respectful to elders and how to act [properly] around them,” Hadil said.

Those who are unsure about participating in taekwondo should join, Hiba said.

“It’s a really good workout,” she said. “At the same time, you don’t feel like you’re working out. It’s an art — it’s something different.”