Instructors
NICHOLAS SCHAFER
School Owner & Chief Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt
When I was twelve years old, my parents decided to enroll me in martial arts. Little did they know at the time how much it would change my life and guide me to the person I am today. I walked into the American Taekwondo Association (ATA) as a white belt and found my passion. I never turned my back and have been training now for nearly 20 years. Even after moving in high school and commuting more than 40 minutes just to continue training, I stuck with it. I knew at an early age that if I ever wanted to be an instructor and own a school someday, I needed to remain focused and have great discipline and perseverance.
Rohnert Park has been home to Schafer’s ATA Martial Arts since 2001. We began as a small club that was run out of the local community center. By 2004, we had grown to 45 students and it became clear we needed to find a permanent home for our school.
We opened our doors at our current location in July, 2004 and have grown to be the best martial arts school in Sonoma County! As an instructor, I am very proud of our students and families. Without their support and dedication, we would not be the school we are today. We have highly trained and motivated instructors who will help you reach your goals, every step of the way.
I encourage you to come in, try a class, make new friends, and become a member of our growing ATA family. We are sure to amaze you!
CAROL SCHAFER
Level 2 Instructor
2nd Degree Black Belt
Hi, my name is Carol Schafer. I am a 2nd Degree Black Belt Level Two Instructor.
I have been in Taekwondo for nine years although I have been involved with ATA for nineteen years through my children’s participation. It was not until my own children were beginning schools of their own that I decided to join the ATA myself. My current goal is to continue my training to reach the rank of 3rd Degree Black Belt, and to continue to support my children in their own martial arts goals.
MICHELLE STEWART
Certified Instructor
2nd Degree Black Belt
My name is Michelle Stewart. I am a second degree black belt and certified instructor. I began training in Tae Kwon Do when my oldest son became a black belt. I never thought I would enjoy it as much as I do now. Not only is it a wonderful way to get exercise, but I have met some great people, made lasting friendships, and can defend myself should the need arise. I was so grateful to Mr. Schafer for what he taught me that I decided I wanted to help others as well. I started training to be an instructor and in August of 2010, I became a certified instructor. Not bad for someone who didn’t think they could do Tae Kwon Do! Come in and try a class with us, I guarantee, you won’t regret it – I never have!
MAYA AYALA
Level 1 Instructor
1st Degree Black Belt
I began taekwondo five years ago, when I was a freshman in high school along with my younger sister. At first I only went to class to get some exercise, but as I progressed in the ranks I felt much more passion in my training. I really like how the whole taekwondo community seemed to be one big family and I really wanted to be apart of that. I began my instructor training during the same time I participated in one of the amazing summer camps that school hosts annually. At that point I started helping out in classes until January of 2010 when I became a member of the staff. Taekwondo is now a huge part of my life and I hope to always continue training and teaching.
SYLVIA MONTERO
1st Degree Black Belt
My name is Sylvia Montero and I am a first degree black belt. I have been doing taekwondo myself for 5 years although I have been part of the ATA for 7 years as my son Bradley joined first. Now both my sons, Bradley and Jesus, are black belts as well. Although I no longer train myself, I still try to be part of our taekwondo family as much as possible. Now I work behind the counter and take a more administrative role. I am fluent in Spanish and help all of our Spanish speaking students reach their goals in martial arts because I feel everyone can be successful no matter what challenges they face. I love what I do and will continue to support the school and my sons’ goals in anyway I can!
