Schafer's ATA Martial Arts Taekwondo and Self-Defense Classes in Petaluma

I had heard for years that Master Schafer was the best martial arts instructor around.  So when our son showed an interest in Taekwondo, we went straight to Schafer's.  Not only is Master Schafer (and his instructors) technically good at the discipline, but the culture he has created is INCREDIBLE!  They emphasize cheering each other on, doing your best even when no one is looking, persistence, a can-do mindset, respect for ALL, self-discipline...the list goes on and on.  All this WHILE communicating openly & honestly with where the kids are at.  If they need to practice kicks, or forms, the instructors will tell them, and help them.  I can't say enough about this studio, and the people there.  It's just fantastic!!

We have been a part of the Schafer ATA “family” for the past four years. Master Schafer and his staff are committed not just to the Taekwondo skills of their students, but to the students as a whole. My boys have gained strength, a positive self-image, the ability to defend themselves, a hard work ethic, as well as core values.  I can not recommend this program enough.       

Master Schafer is an outstanding instructor and mentor. He has the unique ability to train, encourage, and mentor people at every age and every skill level. Whether you are a 4 year old Tiger or a 50+ year old Black Belt, Master Schafer skillfully trains and encourages and simply brings out the very best in you. If you are looking to get you or your kids into Tae Kwon Do, do not wait another minute. Bring them to Schafer's ATA. You'll be thrilled that you did.

Schafer's ATA has been a intricate part of my daughter's life. Rachel has been a student with Master Schafer since she was 4-years old. She's 16-years old now and a 2nd degree black belt. I truly believe it takes a village to raise our children and Master Schafer and his incredible staff have been mentors and friends to Rachel practically her entire life.   Schafer's ATA has been one of many partners as Rachel has grown.  The things they have taught her through Taekwondo has contributed to Rachel becoming the incredible, disciplined, self-confident and strong young woman she has become. I'm so happy we are a part of the Schafer ATA Family!

It's amazing!! All of the instructors are incredible. They encourage the students to do their best and they always have so much energy. My daughter has gained a ton of self confidence since starting in February. She absolutely loves it!! I highly recommend coming here.

We brought our almost 4 year old son, who had been diagnosed with apraxia, hardly spoke, let alone spoke up, to taekwondo nearly two years ago and it was one of the best decisions we have made as parents to date. Our son loves Master Schafer, his peers, and learning new songham’s and weapons. He’s now in leadership and answering up, gaining confidence and learning valuable skills and life lessons. We are so happy our son is part of such an amazing group of people and has Master Schafer, who is such a wonderful, supportive and kind person, to guide him.

My son has been attending Schafer’s ATA now for 7 years, starting when he was 7. He has always been good at sports and excelled in baseball and soccer. However, when he found Tae Kwon Do, he put his heart and soul into the art, giving up both baseball and soccer to dedicate as much time as he could to his martial arts training. I’ve seen him grow in so many different dimensions. He is confident and assured, and keeps his cool about him in challenging situations. This year, he decided to take up sports in high school. In football, he was awarded MVP for his freshman team and he is excelling in both the shot put and discus. When I watch him, he shows the same determination, form, and poise you’ve instilled in him through his Tae Kwon Do training.  We appreciate all that you’ve done and all the work that you put into your school. Thank you!

We are so happy to have become a martial arts family. The instructors are amazing black belt leaders and teachers of The values taught in class; belief, discipline, communication and respect which trickle out in day to day life from students. Thank you Schafer’s ATA for helping our kids be kind leaders!

As a local school teacher & parent, I have seen the profound changes Martial Arts has on self-esteem, focus, & physical abilities. Master Schafer and I have shared students and, because of this, I continue to refer families to Schafer’s ATA. He is especially wonderful working with individuals with special abilities & needs. I have seen these students become more confident & utterly excited to be a part of such a supportive environment. The instructors are warm & always make people feel welcome in the school. Master Schafer’s willingness to go the extra distance is evident. He is an involved & compassionate individual who is a standout in our community. With budget cuts in schools, physical education is slowly being eliminated for other core subjects. Children are needing to seek outside activities to for proper health & I feel Martial Arts is a great choice!

Master Nicholas Schafer teaches more than Martial Arts. Although Taekwondo is an incredible sport of individual goals and accomplishments, he also teaches many life skills that will be carried on throughout life.  I am extremely proud of my four children and the persons that they are becoming. I know that the instruction, guidance, and discipline they have received throughout their training has greatly influenced who they are and who they are to become.  Schafer’s ATA is not only a Martial Arts Academy but will become a part of your extended family.

I absolutely love Schafer's ATA. The school, its instructors and the family. Master Schafer is a great educator and true inspiration to so many. He and all of his staff are always giving attention to every person that walks through their doors. I appreciate the support, guidance, discipline, education and love my family receives from them. I enjoy everything about this school and it’s community. Thank You !!!

Being a part of this Taekwondo family has given me something I can truly be passionate about.  That passion comes from being around Master Schafer and all the instructors who have been with him through the years.  They have taught me so much about loyalty and compassion. As well as how to persevere and how to be a strong leader.  Schafer's ATA is a part of my family. I hope to keep training with Master Schafer for many years to come.

My son will be seven in April and he started at Schafer ATA when he was five. As soon as he finished his trial class he made it very clear that he wanted to sign up for the school. He has made huge progress and learned so much since then. The instructors are all great and Master Schafer is the best. He's fun and quick on his feet when it comes to engaging with the kids. He demands their respect in a natural way and makes them eager to practice and please their instructors at the next class. My son has learned about respect, self-defense, organization, strength and focus and he's still so young. I'm excited to see him bloom as he continues with the program. We might move to West Sonoma County in the next year or two and we are definitely going to keep bringing our son to Schafer ATA. We highly recommend this school!

I absolutely love Schafers ATA. The school, instructors and the family. Master Schafer is a great educator and true inspiration to many. I enjoy everything this school has to offer. Thank You !!!