About Us - West Coast Taekwondo
At West Coast Taekwondo, we are dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of traditional Taekwondo while providing expert martial arts training for students of all ages. Conveniently located in Tustin, we welcome students from across Orange County, including Irvine, Santa Ana, Anaheim, and Fullerton. Our award-winning staff is committed to creating a friendly, supportive environment where every student can thrive.
Our Story – The Tradition and Expertise Behind West Coast Taekwondo
Grounded in the rich history of Taekwondo’s origin, West Coast Taekwondo offers authentic, traditional Taekwondo training. Our program, guided by years of Taekwondo expertise, fosters discipline, respect, and self-confidence. Through rigorous physical and mental training, we help students develop into well-rounded individuals.
Our well-rounded curriculum combines self-defense, fitness, and character development, challenging students at every level. From beginners to advanced practitioners, we are dedicated to helping each student succeed and become stronger, more resilient individuals.
Mission Statement
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of you for being a part of West Coast TKD. We are honored to have the privilege of teaching your children and helping them achieve their goals in TKD. Without your unwavering support and encouragement, none of this would be possible. Here, we believe that Taekwondo is more than just kicking and punching—it’s about building integrity and resilience.
These are the qualities that will stay with our students for a lifetime and help them succeed in all aspects of their lives.
As one of the leading martial arts schools in Tustin, we are proud of our high standards for earning stripes and belts. We treat all students with respect and care as they progress through their martial arts journey.
Since opening in 1990, WCTKD’s vision has been to make a positive impact on the lives of children, teens, and adults by sharing our passion for the sport and upholding the tenets we live by each day. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue to do so and to see our students grow and thrive. As family, teachers, instructors, students, and friends, we know that there is no greater impact on a person’s life than their integrity of character.
We strive to lead by example and instill these values in our students. We believe that these qualities are the roadmaps to success in all areas of life, including school, family, work, friends, relationships, and community. Once again, we want to thank you for being a part of our TKD family. We look forward to continuing to teach and learn from each other.
Sincerely,
West Coast Taekwondo Staff
“People don’t care about how much you know, until they know how much you care.” – Masters Gary and Lynn Williams, Founders
Meet The School Owner: Taekwondo Expert and Master Instructor
Master Heather Vaughn, 6th Degree Black Belt
My journey in Taekwondo began in August 2001, when I walked into West Coast Taekwondo at the age of 13. From the very beginning, I was determined to train hard and become the best I could be. In 2003, I achieved my goal and earned my Black Belt. But my journey didn’t end there. I continued to push myself, volunteering as an Instructor Trainee in 2004 and competing nationally in 2005. In 2008, I became a Senior Certified Instructor, a testament to my dedication and hard work.
Senior Martial Arts Experts and Instructors
Master
Steven Austin
7th Degree Black Belt
Senior Instructor
Master
Adam Gentry
7th Degree Black Belt
Senior Instructor
Master
Robert Merino
6th Degree Black Belt
Senior InstructorOur Principles
Courtesy
The act of demonstrating respect, kindness, and consideration towards others, often through gracious behavior, and an awareness of their personal inner feelings.
Integrity
The quality of being honest, having strong moral principles, and adhering to ethical standards consistently. It involves doing the right thing, even when it's difficult.
Perseverance
The quality of pushing forward in pursuit of a goal, despite obstacles, or difficulties. It involves determination, resilience, and a willingness to keep trying, even in adversity.
Self-Control
The ability to regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behavior in order to achieve a goal or to respond in a constructive manner to a difficult or challenging situation.
Indomitable Spirit
An inner strength that enables a person to persevere in the face of adversity, to overcome obstacles and challenges, and to remain steadfast in pursuit of their goals.
