07/27/2026
A message from SM Horn.
Two weeks ago I had the privilege of testing for my 7th Degree Black Belt in Shimsan Taekwondo.
As I reflected on the journey, I realized this test wasn’t just about the past year of training, it was about the incredible adventure that started over 13 years ago when Grand Master Jody Horn and I took a leap of faith and started NMAA.
Back then, we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. We taught our very first form from paper printouts on the floor. Our first tournaments had rings made from blue painter’s tape. We weren’t lucky, we built. We built systems, culture, trust, and, most importantly, a family.
From Colorado to Texas… then across the United States and around the world, every new school, every student, every instructor reminded us that there’s always more to build and more people to serve.
Over the last year, and throughout this entire journey, I’ve learned to connect more deeply with people, to trust myself, and to lead in my own way, with love, care, and light.
On my nightstand sits a small stone with one word: Gratitude. That’s how I feel about every person who’s believed in us, believed in NMAA, and believed in me. Thank you. ❤️
I’ll leave you with something that stuck with me recently:
“The wave doesn’t wait for you.”
Neither does life.
If an opportunity comes your way, don’t wait until you feel ready. Take the leap. You’ll figure it out one day at a time.
Much love. ❤️
