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Southwest Arkansas Taekwondo proudly serving Hope since 2016
Who we Are And why You Should Train Here
On May 1, 2016, Richard and Katie Gentry took over the martial arts school in Hope, Arkansas with a vision: to take the martial art that they love and bring it to students of all ages in the area so that it will impact their lives in the many positive ways it has theirs.
Though we’re teaching a martial art, we want all of our students, no matter how long they train with us, to walk off our mats with more, so we teach with the brain in mind! We strive to bring out the CHAMPION in kids, teens, and adults – helping them choose to live a life of integrity, humility, respect, and who thrive not only physically, but also thrive mentally, socially, and intellectually!
Get To Know Our World Class Instructors
MRS. KATIE GENTRY
CEO & Head Class Instructor
Mrs. Katie Gentry is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo through the World Taekwondo Alliance. She has trained in Taekwondo since 2010 under the instruction of Mr. Gary Jones, 7th Dan of Texarkana, Texas, and Grand Master Scott McNeely, 9th Dan of Dallas, Texas. She has assisted with and taught martial arts classes since 2012, holding an Instructor Certification through the World Taekwondo Alliance.
Her favorite aspect of teaching is empowering others to overcome obstacles and see the best in themselves.
Outside of the dojang, she enjoys reading, exercising, playing board games, and spending time with her husband, Richard, family, friends, 4 dogs, and 2 cats.
MR. ZACH GENTRY
Assistant Class Instructor
Competition & Demo Team Instructor
Mr. Zach Gentry is a 3rd Degree Black belt in Taekwondo through the World Taekwondo Alliance, He has trained since 2011 under his instructors, Mrs. Katie Gentry, Mr. Gary Jones, 7th Dan of Texarkana, Texas, and Grand Master Scott McNeeley, 9th Dan of Dallas, Texas. He has assisted in teaching martial arts classes since 2016 and holds a Red Collar Leadership certification through SWAT. He is also the 2019 WTA National Forms Champion.
His favorite aspect of teaching is building connections with others. Outside of SWAT, he trains in Brazillian Jiu Jitsu, enjoys playing bass guitar, playing video games, and spending time with family and friends.
MRS. KATHY LUCE
Assistant Class Instructor
New Student Liason
Mrs. Kathy Luce is a 2nd Degree Recommended Black Belt in Taekwondo through the World Taekwondo Alliance. She first trained in Taekwondo in the early 1980’s, and returned to training in 2018 to be a part of SWAT. She has assisted in teaching martial arts classes since 2019 and holds a Red Collar Leadership certification from SWAT. She is also the 2019 WTA National Forms and Sparring Champion.
Her favorite aspect of teaching is seeing students’ progression in learning and all the smiles and hugs. Outside of SWAT, she enjoys fishing, painting, gardening, and spending times with friends and family.
In addition to our Head and Assistant Instructors, students ranking Junior Green Belt or higher have the opportunity to help assist with classes, furthering their skills beyond personal training. These leaders can be found aiding in or teaching drills, buddying with new students, and doing what they can to help classes be successful.
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