Not many martial arts schools last for three decades, but Redwood Meadows Tae Kwon-Do has become a staple in the community. This journey began in 1995 when Grandmaster J.J. Lee, a martial arts pioneer who introduced Tae Kwon-Do to Calgary, encouraged instructors Jason and Stacie Smith to open a school in Bragg Creek.
The first demonstration drew a modest crowd of around 20 people in the old Bragg Creek Community Centre, yet it sparked an enthusiasm that led to the signing of 10 eager students. Soon after, a request from a Redwood Meadows resident prompted the instructors to expand their reach, teaching one class in Bragg Creek before heading to Redwood Meadows each week.
Fast forward to today, and Mr. and Mrs. Smith continue to share their passion for Tae Kwon-Do with the community, offering classes twice a week for 10 months of the year. Over 2,500 students have now passed through the doors of the Redwood Meadows Community Centre, discovering a sport that welcomes everyone—kids, teens, and adults alike.
Tae Kwon-Do has fostered family bonds, with entire families training together and achieving black belt status. With nearly 30 black belts produced, some of whom have competed internationally, the school has a proud legacy. One of the students Ms. Jodie Clease, who began at 6 years old, now serves as the school’s lead instructor after earning her fourth black belt and a master’s degree in education.
Instilling values like courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit, Tae Kwon-Do has left an indelible mark on the community, becoming a rite of passage for many families. It has been 30 incredible years of Tae Kwon-Do in the community!
