About WestCoast Martial Arts
Home of 2024, 2025 & 2026 AAU National Medalist and 2026 AAU Junior Olympic Medalist
Our mission
Our mission is simple: empower students of all ages to build confidence, strength and resilience through the art of Tae Kwon Do.
Who we are
At WestCoast Martial Arts, we believe Tae Kwon Do is more than a martial art — it’s a path to personal growth, resilience and empowerment. Our dojang in Tacoma welcomes students of all ages and fitness levels, offering a supportive environment where you can achieve your goals and unlock your full potential.
Get to know Coach Lisa
Curious about the champion behind WestCoast Martial Arts? Coach Lisa is more than an instructor — she’s an inspiration.
What inspired Coach Lisa to start Tae Kwon Do?
Coach Lisa began her Tae Kwon Do journey at the age of 12 in Chicago. Inspired by the discipline, strength and sense of purpose the martial art brought to her life, she quickly fell in love with the sport and its transformative power.
What are her proudest achievements?
- 2-time US Open Champion
- 8 National Gold Championships
- 1 Silver and 2 Bronze National Medals
- Numerous state and national titles under AAU, USAT and ATU
- State-level gold medalist 13 years straight
What makes her teaching style unique?
As a bilingual instructor with Guatemalan and Salvadoran roots, Coach Lisa brings a welcoming, family-oriented approach to her classes. Her deep competitive experience and commitment to her students make her guidance both technical and inspiring.
Where does her passion for teaching come from?
Coach Lisa believes martial arts can transform lives. She’s dedicated to helping students build confidence, discipline and strength while fostering a supportive community.
Training, competing, growing
Minority & Women’s Owned Business
WestCoast Martial Arts is proudly certified by the Washington State Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE).
About us: quick answers
Who is Coach Lisa?
Coach Lisa is the head instructor of WestCoast Martial Arts in Tacoma. She began Tae Kwon Do at age 12 in Chicago and is a 2-time US Open Champion, 8-time National Gold Champion and Kukkiwon-certified instructor.
Is Coach Lisa bilingual?
Yes. Coach Lisa is a bilingual instructor with Guatemalan and Salvadoran roots and teaches in English and Spanish.
What are the school's certifications?
WestCoast Martial Arts is Kukkiwon certified, AAU certified and SafeSport certified, and is affiliated with USA Taekwondo.
Train with a champion
Call (813) 720-1956 or email info@westcoastma.com to schedule your first class.