I began Taekwondo lessons in 1978 and earned my 1st degree black belt in 1984 at the age of 12. My first experience with Taekwondo was through an organization that practiced an outdated form of Korean Karate that was taught in Korea during the 1940's and 50's.  Over the years as I gained exposure to various "styles" of Taekwondo and my understanding of Taekwondo has evolved.



I learned of an international standard for Taekwondo created by the founding Korean Kwans ("schools") and headquartered in Seoul, Korea; the Kukkiwon. I learned of an international standard for competition as recognized by the International Olympic Committee. I discovered a pipeline for Taekwondo coaches and athletes to reach national, junior national, world and Olympic teams. I discovered a process for black belts to become registered with the World Taekwondo Headquarters in Korea and legitimately advance though the various degrees of Black Belt.



I was frustrated that authentic Taekwondo was not being taught in Nebraska and that so many schools and instructors were deceiving their students.

Currently, I practice and teach the internationally standardized curriculum as promoted by the "Kukkiwon" and teach my students the techniques and rules of internationally standardized sport of Olympic Taekwondo and sport Poomsae.  I believe I am offering the best possible service to my students so that they can continue their training anywhere around the world with the same curriculum while being able to compare their techniques and abilities to an international standard.



I currently hold an International Master Instructor's License with the Kukkiwon as well as advanced RKCII kettlebell instructor certifications and am a CKFMS Functional Movement Specialist.  I have completed Level II Coaching certification through the USAT (the national governing body for the Olympic Sport of Taekwondo) as well as referee certification through the USAT and Kukkiwon.

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While I competed extensively until the age of 30, I have mostly retired from competition. Most recently I have won a Gold Medal at the World Taekwondo Hanmadang in 2008 as well as a Gold Medal and Grand Champion at the 2012 Kukkiwon Cup. At the moment my goal is to grow the Omaha Elite Taekwondo program and continue to positively impact the lives of my students through authentic Taekwondo.