Connelly's Academy of Taekwon-Do and Hapkido is located in Evanston, Illinois. Master Connelly has 40 years of Martial Arts experience to share with his students. He is a 6th Dan TKD, 3rd Dan Hapkido, 2nd Dan Kumdo, 1st Dan Judo. Connelly Academy programs focus on self-defense, health and wellbeing and character development. We enjoy training together in an environment that fosters respect for self and others.
The Academy has been serving the North Shore Community for over 20 years, providing programs serving youth, adults, and special populations. The United States Moo Sul Kwan Taekwon-do Federation and by the World Hapkido Federation have recognized the Academy's instructors as exceptional martial arts educators.
Master Connelly believes in a traditional approach, encouraging students to improve by competing with themselves, not by defeating others. The mission of Connelly's Academy is to keep the benefits of professional Taekwon-do and Hapkido instruction available to everyone in the community. Studying martial arts should be a lifelong activity, available to people of all abilities.
What is Taekwon-do ?
Taekwon-do is a modern martial art believed to have evolved from ancient warrior training systems practiced in Korea over a thousand years ago. The ancient Koreans used self-defense training to create strong minds and bodies, good character and harmony in the community. Our purpose for studying Taekwon-do in modern times remains much the same. Taekwon-do provides an enjoyable way to improve our health, mental discipline, self-esteem and self-protection skills.
All true martial arts (vs. martial sports & street fighting systems) are ultimately forms of "character development" education. To become a senior belt in Taekwon-do, students are expected to apply seven principles, the "Tenets of Taekwon-do", while training, and in their lives, at home and at school.
What programs do we offer?
We have programs designed to meet the needs of people at all levels of ability, from accomplished athletes to physically challenged individuals.
Connelly's Academy reflects the diversity of the community it serves. The attitude of mutual respect between students and instructor provides a unique opportunity to study Taekwon-do in a safe, non-competitive environment.