Chah-ryut: Northeast Taekwondo Grand Opening With Demos Saturday

BRANFORD, CT — Northeast Taekwondo celebrates its grand opening Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at 845 W Main St. #8, in Branford.

Opened in late 2022, owner and taekwondo master Donte Branch said the goal was to bring a "high quality martial arts education" to Branford.

"At Northeast Taekwondo, we take an inclusive approach to education, believing that all students can learn, no matter what limitations present themselves. We adhere to and teach the five tenets of Taekwondo: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, indomitable spirit. And we foster camaraderie, support, and good sportsperson-ship among our students," Branch said.

Northeast Taekwondo works with people of all ages, but primarily works with students ages three to 12. Branch said Northeast Taekwondo "offers an approach to membership that is identical to joining a family."

"We welcome people of all backgrounds and abilities, knowing that all members are capable of learning within their own limitations and potential," he noted.

Branch said he has 18 years of experience studying and practicing Taekwondo beginning in 2003 "under the guidance of Master O'Kelly." He said he earned his 1st dan Black Belt in 2007, and earned his 4th dan Black Belt in 2019. He's also been a Taekwondo instructor for 13 years and has three years of experience working in the fitness industry as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor.

Branch said he teaches all ages and belt levels, and has coached multiple competition teams to regional championship victories and national championship qualifiers.

With a BA in Sociology, he is a Certified Personal Trainer, Sports Nutritionist, and Mixed Martial Arts Conditioning Specialist.