I started my Taekwon-Do journey in 1984. My instructor at the time was a member of the America Taekwon-Do Association. The ITF/USTF had no presence in the state of Utah until 1986 when our instructors switched. That switch of associations changed my
entire Taekwon-Do future. At the time, I was a green belt having no idea how an organization could shape the future of a martial arts career.
Another career-altering change came when I was a 3rd Degree Black Belt and sought to change organizations once again, this time due to personal conflicts. This change was in 2005, after the passing of General Choi Hong Hi when my organization cut ties with
the ITF. After researching multiple organizations, the decision was made to join the ITF under President Choi Jung Hwa’s leadership and the US-ITF under Grand Master Wheatley. Under the guidance of Grand Master Robert Wheatley and Grand Master
Gordon Jue, my technical understanding expanded tremendously. I had never questioned techniques, application, or other intricacies of Taekwon-Do study until my first meeting with Grand Master Wheatley when he explained simple delivery of
techniques in terms that made sense.
Since joining the US-ITF, my desire for perfecting techniques was piqued. I had competed in many tournaments during my early years averaging about 2 per year. I had consistently place gold, silver, or bronze in all events. After joining the US-ITF, my desire for perfection also increased my interest in more than just local tournaments. In 2007, I started my journey of international competition with the ITF World Championships ending that journey in 2016 with a Gold medal in VI Dan Men’s Patterns
in Brighton, England.
In November 2024, I was honored to be invited to grade for my 7th Degree Black Belt. I continue to teach with the goal of instilling curiosity among my students in the hopes that they will continue to question what they learn in the pursuit of bettering themselves both in Taekwon-Do and life.