I began training at a YMCA in Sheffield, Alabama, when I was six, eventually making my way to the studio of Grandmaster Strong, the current head of the World Tang Soo Do Association. In 1992, at the age of 12, I received my black belt and, the next week, began teaching. In 1995, I earned my second-degree black from Grandmaster Jae Chul Shin (the founder and head of World Tang Soo Do Association).
Eventually, I found my way to a studio in Los Angeles, where I achieved my third- and fourth-degree black belts and the rank of Sa Bom Nim.
After 16 years in Los Angeles, and 36 years of studying martial arts, I opened my own studio, SoCal Karate Kids and SoCal Tang Soo Do Academy, to merge my own personal philosophies with the traditions of Tang Soo Do.
My hope is that the students who take on this challenge under the banner of SoCal Karate Kids achieve more than just a black belt—that they approach physical health and mental health with a sense of optimism, joy, and resilience. My approach to this: Combine humor with self-discipline, and watch what your student can achieve!
Tang Soo!
-Master Crittenden
Hello, I am Miss Hope and I have studied Tang Soo Do for 16 years and have been teaching for 7 years I have achieved my first degree black belt at the age of 15. I believe Martial arts is a great way to learn self-control, discipline, respect, and grow both physically and mentally. Learning martial arts not only teaches one to defend themselves physically but also gives the student tools to deescalate situations and gain confidence within their own body.
Learning to defend oneself through a confident posture and words before actions is something we also learn in Martial Arts and is critical in emotional and social development and has helped me resolve many conflicts throughout my life
Hey, I’m Miss Chessa, and I'm excited to be the welcoming face at SoCal Karate Kids! While my roots are in a lifetime of dance, I've also explored the world of Tang Soo Do, achieving a Green Belt with a stripe under the guidance of Master C.
Beyond that, I've spent years creating positive and welcoming spaces as a teacher, initially with kids through dance and later with adults in fitness classes. My passion lies in helping everyone feel confident, embrace their bodies, and discover their inner strength through movement.
And that’s why I am here, because I know Master C shares the same passion for his students. I’m so happy to be a part of the team and look forward to meeting all of you!
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