Master Jon Young is a Kukkiwon Certified Black Belt who has completed the Kukkiwon Master Instructor Certification Course and is a valued member of the Aspire Performance Center coaching team. He brings a unique combination of traditional martial arts training, military leadership, and practical self-defense knowledge to every class.
Master Jon’s martial arts journey began as a child training under Master Diana Elliott, the same instructor who had a significant influence on both Master Roger Willard and Master Len Lawrence. This shared connection represents an important part of the martial arts foundation that continues to influence Aspire today.
During his service in the United States Army, Master Jon continued his Taekwondo training and earned his 1st Dan Black Belt at the Kukkiwon in Korea. His martial arts development continued alongside his military career, where he learned the importance of discipline, leadership, and preparing others for challenges.
Master Jon achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant and served as a Drill Sergeant, where he was responsible for training and developing soldiers while also completing wartime active-duty service. After his military career, Master Jon medically retired from the Army, bringing with him the leadership, discipline, and commitment developed through his service.
After his military service, Master Jon continued sharing his martial arts knowledge through coaching and mentoring students while continuing his own development through private training with Master Diana Elliott. This continued connection to Master Elliott helped strengthen the foundation, knowledge, and traditions that shaped Master Jon’s approach as a martial artist and instructor before he eventually joined the Aspire coaching team.
After joining Aspire, Master Jon became an important part of the school’s growth and evolution. With his background and continued training, he helped develop Aspire’s Tai Chi program. This expansion became one of the first steps in Aspire’s journey from a competitive Taekwondo school into the Aspire Performance Center, which now includes multiple disciplines such as Tai Chi, Muay Thai Kickboxing, wrestling, and MMA.
Master Jon’s military background has given him a unique perspective on practical self-defense. Through his training and experience, he developed skills in hand-to-hand combat and defensive techniques involving blunt weapons, which he incorporates into his instruction to help students better understand real-world situations and personal protection.
Master Jon believes martial arts should prepare students not only for competition, but for life. His goal is to help students develop confidence, awareness, discipline, and the ability to respond effectively when faced with challenges.
Through his martial arts experience, military leadership, and commitment to teaching others, Master Jon continues to help Aspire students become stronger, more confident, and better prepared for whatever challenges they may face.
