An autistic teen from Reading is combating setbacks in pursuit of a black belt.
On Saturday, 14-year-old Danny Moran will go before a board of karate instructors at the Reading Pagoda Martial Arts Research Center to determine whether he will become a junior black belt.
"There will be physical tests and then there will be performance," said Master Herman Price. "He will also perform with weapons because we don't hold him back."
For four years, Price has taught Danny everything from mastering high kicks to handling nunchuks.
"It's actually kind of fun and relaxing at some points," said Danny, currently a brown belt.
But karate isn't just fun for Danny. Additionally, it's helped him manage his coordination and balance.
"His disposition started to change," said Price.
"It gave him self-confidence," added Danny's dad, Eddie Moran.
According to Price, Danny has placed high in several competitions in the past. While the teen has special needs, he doesn't require special treatment in order to succeed.
"It's impressive to have worked with him. Very impressive," said Price.
"Karate has taught me a lot of things," Danny told 69 News. "It's not just kicking somebody. It's physical, it's mental, everything. It's fair, as well."
As much as karate has taught Danny, Danny has in turn taught and inspired others to combat their setbacks.
"I'm overwhelmed with joy to see him accomplish and see him grow and realize that he can do anything that he wants in life," said Moran.
Moran hopes that Danny's story will inspire others with special needs to shoot for the stars.
"Don't limit the goals that you set for your children," he said, "especially children with special needs. They can accomplish anything."
Danny agrees.
"I do believe that I can accomplish anything that any other kid can do if I try hard and work on it," the teen said.
When it comes to Saturday's test, he isn't nervous.
"I'm probably gonna go all the way to black belt!" he said.
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