Meet ‘Mr. Jimmy’: The Martial Arts Legend of Hagerstown
James C. Smith II, also known as ‘Mr. Jimmy’, has been a martial arts enthusiast for over three decades. At 52, this lifelong Hagerstown resident and owner of White Tiger Martial Arts has achieved remarkable success in the world of martial arts. Recently, he earned his 9th Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, and American Style Karate, a feat that places him among the elite in the United States.
A Remarkable Journey
What makes Smith’s achievements even more extraordinary is the adversity he faced in his early years. At the age of 21, he was involved in a life-threatening accident when a drunk driver hit him head-on. Despite being told that he would never walk again, Smith defied the odds and used martial arts as his physical therapy, showcasing the resilience and determination that define his character.
A Lifelong Passion
For Smith, martial arts has been a lifelong passion that began at a young age. Introduced to the sport by his father, he started training at the age of 3 or 4. Reflecting on his journey, Smith shared, “I started boxing, and I was a small guy and I didn’t like the boxing because my face didn’t like it too much. You can understand why. I got more into kickboxing and I’ve been doing that ever since.” Martial arts became his refuge, steering him away from the streets and providing him with a sense of purpose and discipline.
A Career in Martial Arts
After using martial arts as a means of rehabilitation, Smith transitioned into teaching while working other jobs. Despite opportunities in construction and law enforcement, his unwavering passion for martial arts led him to establish White Tiger Martial Arts. With dedication and perseverance, Smith and his wife, Marcia D. Watters, turned their dream into reality, opening the school in 2009 without any external financial support.
A Real-Life Mr. Miyagi
Smith’s commitment to martial arts is unparalleled, dedicating six days a week and about 70 hours to training and teaching. His wife, Watters, expressed her pride, stating, “I’m just awfully proud of him. He’s so dedicated to what he does.” Drawing parallels to the iconic Mr. Miyagi, Smith’s passion for teaching and giving back to the community is evident in his tireless efforts.
The Rewards of Teaching
While Smith’s personal accomplishments are noteworthy, his true pride lies in the success of his students. Through his guidance, young martial artists like Johnny and Kamden have developed confidence, discipline, and a sense of achievement. Parents, too, have witnessed the positive impact of Smith’s teachings on their children, highlighting the transformative influence of martial arts.
Martial Arts for Everyone
At White Tiger, Smith’s inclusive approach welcomes individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. His dedication to helping every student achieve their potential reflects his belief in the power of martial arts to transform lives. Smith’s vision extends beyond his own journey, as he aims to make a positive impact on the community through the practice of martial arts.
For those interested in learning more about Smith and White Tiger Martial Arts, visit www.whitetigerkaratemaryland.com.