Little Ninjas Moving Little Ninjas moving up the ranks include, left to right, Matthew Gillespie, Scott Peterson, Joey Gillespie and Izzy Gillespie.

Defensive Solutions in Newcastle conducted a rank test and promotions in its morning Little Ninja program. The test was conducted by Black Belt and licensed Little Ninja Instructor Hal Pierce.

Scott Peterson of Nobleboro was tested and promoted to his Yellow stripe belt. Scott's younger sister, Isabel, was promoted to her Orange stripe belt. Izzy is the youngest Little Ninja promoted from the Newcastle school starting at age two and having just turned three years old.

Matthew Gillespie of Wiscasset was promoted to the rank of Blue stripe and his younger brother, Joey, was promoted to his Orange stripe belt.

The Ninjas are tested on the eight main skills of being a Little Ninja, Focus, Self-Control, Memory, Fitness, Teamwork, Balance, Discipline and Coordination. The Little Ninja program is a preschooler's introduction to martial arts training. It was professionally designed by Melody Shuman, a highly regarded children's martial arts educator, to teach children important life skills in a fun, exciting and enriching manner.

Defensive Solutions is a member school of the National Association of Professional Martial Artists and offers professional instruction for all ages. Anyone interested in the Little Ninja program can call the school at 563-3037 for information. Defensive Solutions is a community leader in anti-bullying and available for school talks, demonstrations and personal safety workshops.