Arizona Taekwondo Martial Arts and Physical Fitness in Chandler is making history as three of its teen students recently earned spots on national teams. Competing in events with thousands of participants, they have set a new standard for martial arts excellence in Arizona through the support of their instructor and studio owner, Grandmaster Kim.
Kaden Stovall-Diaz clinched gold at the US Open, the West Grand Prix and the USAT Nationals, competing against more than 2,000 athletes from around the world. His success not only brings pride to his community but also positions him as a strong candidate for Team USA and potentially the next Olympics, showcasing the high level of talent emerging from Arizona.
Despite challenges posed by brachymetatarsia, a medical condition affecting her feet, Grace Ha-Eun Kim took the gold at the AAU Nationals this year and bronze last year and in 2022, she won gold at the 22nd Korean American National Sports Festival, bringing home the first-ever gold medal for Arizona for the event across all sports.
Daneau Kim, the youngest son of the Taekwondo master, proved his own talent and carried on his family’s legacy by also earning a spot on a national team this year. Growing up in a family deeply involved in Taekwondo, he was immersed in the sport from a young age. His father’s teachings and his brother’s achievements have been significant motivators in his journey.
Originally opened in 2014 by Grandmaster Kim to provide opportunities for his sons and close friends, Arizona Taekwondo Martial Arts and Physical Fitness has evolved into a supportive community where young athletes are encouraged to embody the five tenets of Taekwondo: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.
Grandmaster Kim looks forward to continuing his studio's legacy of setting new standards of excellence in Taekwondo and inspiring more athletes to achieve their dreams.
Arizona Taekwondo Martial Arts and Physical Fitness, located in Chandler at 2350 S. Airport Blvd., is celebrating its 10th anniversary with an open house from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3. Registration to attend can be found here.
For more information about Arizona Taekwondo Martial Arts and Physical Fitness, call 480-442-3150 or visit arizonataekwondo.com.
