The staff looked at several karate studios and choose FMK Karate because of the welcoming attitude of its owner, Frank Kushner. "Frank said he could work with them at their level and at their own pace," French said.

Kushner, a 10th-degree black belt, said he had no hesitancy about taking the two men on as students. "I've never liked labeling someone as special needs," he said.

About a half-dozen students with disabilities are among the 200 persons enrolled at FMK Karate, Kushner said. One of those students, Dana Hamm, 28, of Binghamton, has earned a third-degree black belt.

Hamm, who is mentally retarded with mild cerebral palsy, began taking karate about seven years ago to help his gross motor skills. "It's been great for him. It's given him a sense of balance, body awareness and self-confidence," said Candy Hamm, Dana's mother.

While Kushner makes some concessions to her son's condition, the young man has "blossomed," she said. "The lesson is don't be afraid to try something new even if it's intimidating to you," she said.

At FMK Karate, Stetson and Albrechta take part in regular classes. They do the exercises and practice moves with other students while progressing at their own pace.

The two men have come a long way, said Janis Cline, of Binghamton, another student at FMK Karate. "Adam was really shy at first, but he's come out of his shell and jokes around," she said.

Stetson said he likes the fact that karate is hard work. "I feel great," he said.

"I felt like Superman," added Albrechta about the first time he broke boards with his hands.

French said he's proud of what the two men have accomplished over the past several months. "I think coming here has given them a sense of belonging," he said.

The two men plan to continue taking lessons.