In many martial arts styles, the assumption traditionally has been that once students earn their black belts they are ready to teach other students. But the ATA does not believe that simply being able to do something well qualifies a person to teach it. During the last 30 years, the ATA has developed an intensive instructor training program to insure that all ATA instructors are skilled and professional teachers.

The Leadership Program was developed by the American Taekwondo Association to teach leadership skills to all individuals, regardless of their age or belt rank.
Through the use of proven methods, strategies, and training techniques you can develop the most recognizable characteristic of high-achieving individuals… Leadership Skills.

Some of the Personal Benefits our dedicated instructors receive from their hard work and effort include:
Developing Leadership Skills
Improving Their Taekwondo
Learning Instructional Techniques
Valuable Life Skills Training
Sharpening Their Thinking Skills
Attending Special Events

Before becoming certified, ATA black belts spend 2-3 years as instructor trainees, during which time they are required to teach at least 300 hours under the supervision of a senior instructor. They are also required to earn certification in CPR and Youth Protection and to attend instruction camps.

Remember to visit with your instructor and let them know you want a future with the ATA!

Grand Master Soon Ho Lee

ATA Junior Leadership Program – The Junior Leadership Program is designed to prepare for the Instructor Program and for a successful life.

Mastering the Martial Arts skills is essential for an Instructor, but aren’t the only skills necessary to make and excellent Instructor. Talking on the telephone, making introductions, dressing for success, dealing with bullies and peer pressure, combined with communication skills, time management and a confident and commanding presence in front of people are key characteristics of great Leaders and Instructors. These characteristics can be learned by any student regardless of their belt rank, and will be learned in your Junior Leadership training.

 Effective leadership skills are the most recognizable characteristics of successful and high achieving individuals. They are also the skills that parents most desire for their children to learn. As a Junior Leader, one will learn skills that you and your parents  can be proud of and as you take them out into your school and community, other will be proud of you as well.