Assistant Instructor Karen Alex, II-Dan
Ms. Alex trained at the Alliance Chung Do Kwan TaeKwon-Do Club (ACTC), under Grandmaster Jeffrey Helaney. After taking a hiatus from the martial arts, Ms. Alex has joined The Open Space Martial Arts to further her training, pass on what she has learned, and to remind Master Thompson what Traditional TaeKwon-Do training should be!
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Ms. Alex is the 2020 USKF Assistant Instructor of the Year and was inducted into their Black Belt Hall of Fame on Oct. 24, 2020.
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Q: Why do you keep practicing Martial Arts?
A: Self-defense got me in. But then I found it was so much more than kicking and punching. The Tenets and the Student Oath are the basis of training and give me something to strive for. Physical fitness is an added benefit. I also have to be sure my teenage son doesn't pass me up!
Assistant Instructor Logan Alex, I-Dan
Mr. Alex is a I-Dan Black Belt, trained in Chung Do Kwan TKD through the award-winning Kick Drugs Out of Alliance program and The Open Space Martial Arts, as well as having a I-Dan through the International Taekwondo Federation. In addition to continuing his empty-hand training, Mr. Alex has started adding weapons into his martial arts repertoire!
Mr. Alex graduated from High School Cum Laude in 2022, is on track for a management position at his work, and is saving up to buy a house!
Q: Why do you keep practicing Martial Arts?
A: Since I began, I have become more confident, a better leader, and a better teacher; all key aspects of my job. Martial arts also means I move better and am much stronger than when I started! It keeps helping me improve!
Assistant Instructor C. Cole, I-Dan
Mr. Cole began his TaeKwon-Do training at the Kick Drugs Out of Alliance program, and is the youngest student to receive a I-Dan in its 20+ year history! After coming to The Open Space, Mr. Cole continues to pursue higher and higher levels of skill!
In addition to martial arts, Mr. Cole is a well-rounded young man; being a musician, Scout, and team-sport athlete! Renaissance man!
Q: Why do you keep practicing Martial Arts?
A: To keep my morals straight and my head up high!