Business Details
36 Years
experience
Traditional Taekwondo Training in Tustin, CA
At West Coast Taekwondo, we have dedicated ourselves to preserving the traditions of authentic Taekwondo while adapting our teaching methods to meet the needs of modern students. Founded in 1990, our academy combines decades of martial arts expertise with personalized instruction to foster physical development and ethical growth. Our certified instructors prioritize character-building alongside technical proficiency, ensuring students gain discipline, self-confidence, and practical self-defense skills.Through structured programs for children, teens, and adults, we emphasize core values like integrity, perseverance, and respect while maintaining a supportive learning environment. Our commitment to quality training has earned us recognition as a leading martial arts institution in Tustin, serving students across Orange County.
Services
Taekwondo Classes for Kids
Teens Taekwondo
Adult Taekwondo
Summer Camps
Private Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- Award-winning staff with decades of Taekwondo expertise and certification
- Personalized instruction tailored to individual student needs and skill levels
- Positive community environment promoting mutual respect and camaraderie
- Character development curriculum focusing on integrity and self-discipline
- Proven track record helping students achieve black belt progression
What people say
Excellent instructors
Positive environment
Builds confidence
Skilled mentors
Family-friendly atmosphere
Services
Taekwondo Classes for Kids
Our specialized programs develop motor skills, focus, and confidence in children aged 4-12 through age-appropriate Taekwondo techniques. The Dragon program (4-6 years) focuses on foundational movement while Tigers (6.5-8 years) builds social readiness. Core Kids classes for older children emphasize structured character development alongside physical training. Instructors emphasize safety and positive reinforcement while teaching essential self-defense principles.
Teens Taekwondo
Designed for adolescents aged 13-18, our teen program strengthens physical fitness while cultivating leadership qualities and emotional resilience. Students develop goal-setting abilities through structured belt progression while learning effective self-defense strategies. The curriculum balances traditional Taekwondo forms with modern practical applications, helping teens navigate social challenges through improved discipline and self-confidence.
Adult Taekwondo
Adult classes provide comprehensive physical conditioning combining cardiovascular exercise with technical skill development. Participants learn practical self-defense techniques while improving strength, flexibility, and stress management. The program accommodates all fitness levels, with personalized attention helping students master traditional patterns (poomsae) and sparring applications while progressing through standardized belt ranks.
Summer Camps
Our seasonal day camps for ages 7-12 offer intensive Taekwondo training combined with character-building activities. Daily sessions from 9:00am-3:00pm maintain martial arts progression during school breaks while reinforcing discipline and teamwork. Participants receive structured instruction in traditional forms, sparring techniques, and self-defense applications within a fun, supportive environment.
Private Lessons
Individualized instruction allows focused development of specific Taekwondo skills or accelerated belt progression. Students receive dedicated mentorship in technical precision, competition preparation, or self-defense scenarios tailored to their personal goals. Private sessions complement group classes by addressing individual learning needs with direct instructor feedback.
People
Master Heather Vaughn
6th Degree Black Belt School Owner
With over 20 years of martial arts experience since starting at age 13, Master Vaughn holds the highest rank among current instructors. She has trained extensively in all aspects of Taekwondo, becoming a senior certified instructor in 2008. Her dedication to technical excellence combines with a commitment to student-centered instruction.
Master Steven Austin
7th Degree Black Belt Senior Instructor
As one of the academy's most senior instructors with decades of experience, Master Austin specializes in traditional form instruction and belt rank preparation. His teaching philosophy emphasizes proper technique development while maintaining the cultural heritage of Taekwondo.
Master Adam Gentry
7th Degree Black Belt Senior Instructor
With extensive tournament experience and teaching expertise, Master Gentry focuses on practical self-defense applications and sparring techniques. His approach balances traditional training methods with modern competitive requirements while mentoring advanced students.
Master Robert Merino
6th Degree Black Belt Senior Instructor
Overseeing student progression from beginner to advanced levels, Master Merino brings structured methodology to belt rank testing and form instruction. His teaching emphasizes consistent technical standards and character development principles.
Questions
Do you offer trial classes before commitment?
We provide a complimentary trial class allowing prospective students to experience our training environment before enrollment.
Can Taekwondo improve children's focus and behavior?
Our structured curriculum develops discipline and concentration, with parents noting improved focus and classroom behavior in children.
What equipment is needed for classes?
Initial classes require comfortable workout clothes, with doboks (uniforms) required after enrollment. Sparring gear is introduced as students progress.
Are private lessons available?
We offer personalized private instruction for specific skill development or accelerated belt progression opportunities.
How often are classes held?
Multiple daily sessions accommodate various schedules with flexible weekly attendance options available for students.
Reviews (7)
Neha Phadnis
Feb 20, 2019
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My kid loves West coast Taekwondo .I think its truly different than any other Class , they have personal touch for each of the kid . Mr & Mrs Williams are awesome, my kid just love them. Mr Gentry , Ms Vaughn , Mr Austin all teachers are so jolly & funny with kids , for us its just a family 😀
Laurie Van Sant Oard
Dec 18, 2018
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Amazing instructors who have your student's best interest at heart! A wonder family that I am blessed to be part of!
Charanjot N. Pastagia
Dec 09, 2018
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The trainers are extremely good. The pattern of training alongwith the character building makes it unique.
Wilma Aguirre
Mar 26, 2018
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West Coast TKD has been our second family. Our daughter, Mikayla joined in 2010, became a 3rd degree and instructor trainee. She’s now in her first year in college and part of her training and discipline has tremendously helped her through high school. Our son, Joseph also earned his 3rd degree and a Freshman in high school, he too is an instructor… trainer. Mr. and Mrs. Williams and the Senior instructors have made the entire experience priceless! Best Martial Arts school in the OC!!!! I would definitely rate them over five stars if we could ⭐️⭐️⭐
Proud To Be Myself
Dec 19, 2016
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West Coast Taekwondo is a place where you know you're going to find friends, great mentors, and a home away from home. If you're feeling discouraged and still persevere, the instructors are sure to get you there. Personally, I feel that all the instructors are like family. You may not be in great shape, or you may be skeptical about learning martial arts. You can definitely rely on the staff to get you there. But one thing's for sure, if you're ever feeling lonely, one place that's sure to cheer you up is West Coast Taekwondo.
Peter Sorce
Aug 12, 2016
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As a fellow school owner, i have nothing but fantastic things to say about West Coast Taekwondo. The instructors are knowledgeable, caring and passionate. Not only are they accomplished martial artists themselves, but they also continue to train, learn, and grow themselves. If you seek quality martial arts in the area I highly recommend West Coast Taekwon Do!
George Strickland
Jul 29, 2014
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I have know Mr. and Mrs Williams for some 30 years now, and can truly say that they are the real deal! Their dedication to each and every student goes way above and beyond the norm. They are passionate about the art they teach and just as passionate about each individual student. They truly are masters! I highly recommend this school.
