Meet the Team

One of our favorite things to hear is from parents who tell us they’ve noticed positive changes at home. They often share that their children are saying “please,” “thank you,” and “yes, ma’am” or “yes, sir” more often, showing greater respect, and becoming more confident and responsible.

Watching our students grow both on and off the mat is what makes CREW so special. Our goal is to help every child build strong character, lasting confidence, and skills that will serve them for years to come.

When and why did you start taekwondo?

While I’m not a Taekwondo student myself, my journey with martial arts began when my son started training at just 4 years old. He trained until he was 10 before transitioning to competitive baseball, which demanded more of his time. His goal is still to return one day and earn his black belt.

Looking back, I am so grateful we chose Taekwondo before baseball. The respect, leadership, confidence, and sportsmanship he developed through martial arts gave him a foundation that has benefited him far beyond the mat.

One memory has stayed with me all these years. When he started baseball at age 7, the coach called the team together and said, “Take a knee.” Without hesitation, my son ran to the huddle, knelt on one knee with a straight back, and confidently responded, “Respect, sir.”

In that moment, I knew we had made the right decision. The lessons he learned through Taekwondo had already become part of who he was.

More recently, one of his baseball coaches—someone he greatly respects—told him how impressed he was with his leadership, character, and the way he supports his teammates. Later, I asked my son where he thought those qualities came from. He smiled, thought for a moment, and simply said, “Leadership at Schafer’s.”

That answer meant everything to me.

Martial arts gave my son so much more than kicks and punches. It helped shape his character, build his confidence, and teach him how to lead with respect both on and off the field. I truly can’t recommend Schafer’s ATA enough. Choosing Taekwondo was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for my son, and I’m so thankful for the lasting impact it continues to have on his life.

What is a favorite memory you have with your taekwondo training or teaching?

One of my favorite moments happens more often than you might think. Occasionally, a CREW student will get upset—or even cry—when it’s time for their parent to pick them up.

Of course, I never like seeing a child upset. But what touches my heart is why they’re upset. They don’t want to leave because CREW has become a place where they feel safe, welcomed, and genuinely happy. They’ve spent the afternoon playing with friends, learning new skills, building confidence, and feeling like they belong.

Knowing that our program is a place children look forward to every day is incredibly rewarding. It reminds me that we’re doing more than providing after-school care or teaching martial arts—we’re creating a community where kids feel valued, supported, and excited to learn and grow.

There’s no greater compliment than hearing a child say, in their own way, “I don’t want to leave.”

Outside of taekwondo, what is something you are passionate about?

In this season of my life, my favorite place to be is at the baseball field cheering on my son. There is nothing more rewarding than watching your child discover their passion, work hard, and grow through the sport they love.

When I’m not at the ball field or at Schafer’s, you’ll usually find me outside enjoying time with family and friends—or in the middle of a craft project (or two… or three… okay, maybe seven!). I also love curling up with a good book whenever I can find a quiet moment.

Whether I’m supporting my son, creating something new, or spending time with the people I love, I enjoy the simple moments that make life meaningful. Those experiences remind me every day how important it is for children to have a place where they’re encouraged, supported, and celebrated as they grow.