Goodyear martial arts students earn honors at regional championship

More than 50 students from Starworld Martial Arts Academy in Goodyear competed at the World Tang Soo Do Association’s Region 2 Championship, earning awards including several Grand Champion titles and the top spot in the demonstration team competition.

The annual tournament brought together martial artists from across the southwestern United States to compete in sparring, forms, weapons, and team demonstration events. It is part of a series of regional competitions organized by the World Tang Soo Do Association, which promotes traditional Korean martial arts throughout the U.S. and internationally.

Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art known for its emphasis on discipline, respect, self-defense, and personal development. It combines elements of traditional striking techniques with forms, sparring, and weapons training. The art is practiced by students of all ages and belt levels, and tournaments like Region 2’s championship are designed to foster both technical skill and good sportsmanship.

Starworld competitors collected a high number of medals across various divisions. The academy’s demonstration team earned first place overall, and three students were named Grand Champions in their respective divisions:

• Caden Rose, Black Belt Teenage Boys
• Lanna De Castro Pontes, Black Belt Teenage Girls 
• Caleb Whitehead, Black Belt Boys 13 & Under

The championship opened with a Masters Demonstration featuring senior instructors from the region, including several from Starworld. The presentation included board and brick breaking, sword forms, and choreographed martial arts routines.

Master David Boeckman, a 4th-degree black belt and instructor at Starworld’s Goodyear location, was named “Master of the Year” by the World Tang Soo Do Association. The award recognizes leadership, teaching excellence, and contributions to the martial arts community.

“Our students train hard, and it’s rewarding to see them succeed at such a high level,” stated Master Johnny Williamson, a 7th-degree black belt and owner of Starworld Martial Arts Academy. “We’re also incredibly proud of Master Boeckman’s recognition — it reflects the quality of instruction and leadership that defines our school.”

Starworld Martial Arts Academy is located at 13235 W. Thomas Road in Goodyear. The school is affiliated with the World Tang Soo Do Association and offers martial arts instruction for children and adults.

For more information, visit starworldmartialarts.com