Our Studio Instructors
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Head Instructor
Jaiden Schmit
Instructor Courtney Small
About Mr. Schmit
I started martial arts when I was 9 years old, and began teaching Taekwondo in 2015. Teaching is my passion, and learning alongside my students helps them and myself grow as a martial artist.
About Miss Small
I started taekwondo on the tail end of covid. As I trained, I also found a family. I found an incredible group of people who worked together and built others up. As an instructor, I'm training kids just like me. My goal is to show kids how much fun taekwondo can be, but also to show them respect and love.
History
Established in 1996, USTA Martial Arts was founded on the principles of teaching excellence, personal attention, and tradition in Bellingham, WA by Master Uoon Choi and Master Sonny Lee. Due to its progressive program development and constant care for their students, it is now the largest group of professional Taekwondo schools in the State of Washington.
The instructors at USTA Martial Arts are not only fully qualified black belt instructors, they are also successful, active professionals in technology, education, and many other local industries. At USTA Martial Arts, we understand how a proper Martial Arts education complements a successful life, and strive to instill the same attitude and values in our students.​​
Meet the Founder:
Grandmaster Uoon Choi
Master Uoon Choi began Taekwondo at the age of 8. His list of accolades includes becoming a three-time high school National Champion, a two-time Collegiate Champion, an International World Collegiate Gold Medalist in the second World University Taekwondo Championship, held in Berkley, California in 1986, and a Gold Medalist in 1987 All Martial Arts Championship in Singapore.
In 1989, Master Choi received his B.A. in Physical Education from the Physical Education Sports Science University in Seoul, South Korea
His other accomplishments include his status as a Washington State Team Coach, a position as a Master Instructor at the US Taekwondo Center in California, former president of the federally-recognized organization USAT Washington, a non-profit dedicated to the promotion of Taekwondo in Washington, and, finally,
Grandmaster of USTA Martial Arts.
Life Lessons Developed Through USTA Martial Arts
Discover a transformative journey with our Character Development Program at USTA Martial Arts. Going beyond traditional training, we seamlessly integrate life lessons into Taekwondo.
Through engaging discussions and role-playing, we focus on respect, listening skills, and self-confidence. Join us on this dynamic path, where martial arts becomes a catalyst for personal growth and success in life.
Explore the transformative power of character development through USTA Martial Arts.
Character Development Program©
Frequently asked Questions
Children (Ages 4-12)
Q: What is the Character Development Program at USTA Martial Arts? A: The Character Development Program at USTA Martial Arts is a unique initiative that integrates essential life lessons into our Taekwondo classes. It focuses on instilling values and skills that extend beyond martial arts training.
Q: What topics are covered during the group discussions and role-playing exercises? A: We cover a range of topics, including respect for self and others, listening skills, following directions, self-confidence, positive motivation, encouragement, school improvement, and effective ways to deal with bullies.
Q: How does the program contribute to my child's development outside of martial arts? A: By integrating life lessons and fostering character development, our program equips children with skills and values that positively impact various aspects of their lives, including school, relationships, and personal growth.
Teens & Adults (Ages 13+)
Q: How does the program encourage personal growth and development for adults? A: Our program fosters personal growth by addressing life challenges, promoting self-awareness, and encouraging positive behavioral changes. The physical discipline of Taekwondo complements this by providing a structured outlet for stress and supporting overall well-being.
Q: What topics are covered during the group discussions and role-playing exercises? A: We cover a range of topics, including respect for self and others, listening skills, following directions, self-confidence, positive motivation, encouragement, school improvement, and effective ways to deal with bullies.
Q: How does the CD Program contribute to the development of teenagers' decision-making? A: We provide tools and discussions that enhance critical thinking and decision-making skills. By exploring various scenarios, teenagers learn to make informed and responsible choices. Additionally, the mental focus cultivated through Taekwondo exercises supports improved decision-making.