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 Kyo Sa Nim Shaw, a 3rd Dan martial arts instructor. I've been training in Tang Soo Do for almost 24 years and have been teaching for 8 of those years.
I'm beyond excited to join the team at SoCal Karate Kids! Master Crittenden has been my teacher for the majority of my martial arts journey, and he and I have tons of experience working and teaching together.
With Tang Soo Do as my foundation, I've garnered experience from many other styles of martial arts including Muy Thai, Jeet Kune Do, BJJ, and Phillipino as well as European weapon systems.
I am excited to provide the knowledge I have and to help the students of SoCal Karate Kids become the best that they can be!
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!
Hello, I'm Miss Jasmine. I’m thrilled to be part of The SoCal Karate Kids team. After earning a 3rd Degree Black Belt by the International Wushu Sanshou Dao Association I continued training in Wushu and many various martial styles and secured 8 World Championships , 10 National Titles, 2 Martial Arts Hall of Fame inductions and was once recognized by Jackie Chan as being the top young female martial artist in the country.
My expertise spans in a variety of Kung Fu/Wushu forms and weaponry, including swords, double swords, staff, spears, fans, chain whips, and more. Embracing new horizons, I've transitioned into the dynamic realm of stunts and motion capture performance.
I am thrilled to help students on their own martial arts journey. Through mentorship and guidance, I hope to instill not only the techniques and self defense martial arts provides but also cultivate important values such as self-confidence, perseverance, and respect, which I believe are integral to both martial arts and life beyond. It's a true honor to help shape martial arts journeys alongside Master C and all the amazing instructors and staff here at SoCal Karate Kids.
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
Hello, I’m Mr. Rollo! My journey in Tang Soo Do began at age 4 under the guidance of Master Efrain Valentin at Valentin Karate in Meriden, Connecticut. A pivotal influence during my training was Grandmaster J.C. Shin, who regularly visited for belt tests and tournaments, offering invaluable mentorship. Alongside my older brother, now a third-degree black belt, I participated in numerous competitions, excelling in forms, weapons, and sparring, and earned honors at the World Tang Soo Do Association World Championships in 1998, 2000, and 2004.
As a founding member of STORM, the "Student Team of Role Models," I spent much of my time helping with classes. Some of my most cherished experiences involved performing with the demo team, where I combined my martial arts background with a love for creative expression.
After achieving my first-degree black belt at 14, I stepped away to explore dance, theater, and choreography. During high school and beyond, I taught cheerleading, led dance classes, and directed theatrical productions, refining my ability to foster dynamic and supportive environments for learning and growth.
In 2013, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in dance, leading to work in music videos, films, national tours, and the creation of my own dance company. Now, nearly two decades later, I’m excited to return to martial arts through SoCal Karate Academy. I look forward to continuing my journey and supporting yours as we grow together!
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.