At U.S. West Coast Taekwondo, in addition to teaching self-defense skills, we are also interested in the complete personal development of each student. Individual attention is a feature of each and every class, allowing our students to progress quickly and easily toward their personal goals. Our instructors take their responsibilities as role models for younger students seriously, teaching them the importance of strong character, leadership, and good values.
Master O'Brien began Tae Kwon Do training at the age of seven. He is trained in both styles of Tae Kwon Do - World Tae Kwon Do (WTF) and International Tae Kwon Do Federation (ITF). He has trained and competed in Washington, Oregon, Florida, and California. He is also a Disciple (black sash) in Shaolin Kungfu. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Business and is also a Certified Yoga Instructor. He believes that the discipline, concentration, focus, respect, and overall balance created through martial arts training helps to prepare students to succeed in every aspect of their lives. He enjoys other activities including rock climbing, cycling, weight lifting, yoga, bowhunting, chess, and astronomy. He lives in Beaverton with his wife, three young children, dog, and cat.
Ms. Kaari and both her daughters (11 and 9 years old - Black Belts) have trained under Master O'Brien. She is co-owner of the US West Coast Murrayhill and Farmington schools. As Chief Instructor at the Murrayhill location, she believes that anyone who dedicates themselves with hard work and perseverance can earn a black belt. Everyone's path to black belt is their own and each will have their obstacles, but she enjoys helping them to overcome any issues that get in the way of their goal. She is also currently training in Shaolin Kungfu with an emphasis in Tiger style. She has a degree in Finance from the University of MN. She has competed in numerous tournaments and is an international champion (PATU) in both forms and sparring. Her other interests include travelling, reading, camping, archery, and watching her daughters' sports games.
