INSTRUCTORS | andersentaekwondo

STEVE ANDERSEN - 4th DEGREE Black Belt Certified Instructor

I am a devoted family man to my wife of 35 years and 3 sons.

I started Andersen Taekwondo as my way to give back to the community the training I have received and utilize my talents. I have learned over the years that while Taekwondo has given me a stronger body it has given me a softer heart, for the many people that I have crossed paths with. I promise to bring to you a positive experience to expand your health both physically and mentally.

I started my career in Taekwondo as an adult under the direction of Master Rick Staack, in 1999 at Gretna
Taekwondo. Through years of study and learning under Master Staack I have earned my teaching
certification in 2006 and currently hold the rank of Third Degree Black Belt.

I am an active member in the Taekwondo community by competing and judging local tournaments, training and instructing.

Through the guidance and development we are now expanding the Gretna Taekwondo organization into the community.

I am excited to have you meet, many of the talented instructors. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to learn more about you, and your goals.

MASTER CARLTON DUNCAN - 7th DEGREE Black Belt Certified Instructor

Master Duncan has over 25 years of experience in the art of Taekwondo. He earned his 6th Degree Black Belt in February 2012 through Taekwondo America and has spent decades training, competing, and teaching with dedication and passion.

In 1996, he won a National Championship in Taekwondo America as both a 3rd and 4th Degree Black Belt. He went on to become a three-time Arkansas State Champion in 2007, 2008, and 2009 as a 5th Degree Black Belt.

Master Duncan also holds multiple championship titles within the Black Belt Alliance for ranks of 3rd Degree and higher. He was honored with a Good Sportsmanship Award by the Black Belt Alliance for his conduct and leadership in competition.

In addition to his Taekwondo accomplishments, he has served as a judge and referee in Muay Thai events for the IFK and ISK organizations.

Master Duncan is passionate about teaching and has enjoyed years of competition, mentorship, and sharing his knowledge with students of all ages. Now retired, he is enjoying new hobbies—including learning to play the piano and guitar—while continuing to stay connected to the Taekwondo community.

MR. JIM SZARO - 3rd DEGREE Black Belt Certified Instructor

Our family's journey in Taekwondo began in 2007 when our daughter started classes at the age of six. What started as a simple way to help her burn off energy quickly became a shared passion for our entire family. Before long, my wife, our three kids, and I were all training together.

I earned my 1st Degree Black Belt in 2013, followed by my 2nd Degree and instructor certification in 2017, and my 3rd Degree Black Belt in 2021. My wife is a 1st Degree Black Belt, our oldest daughter holds a 2nd Degree, and our younger daughter and son have both earned their 1st Degree Black Belts.

Taekwondo has grown into a core part of our family’s life. As a certified instructor, I’ve had the privilege of teaching students of all ages and skill levels, and I regularly serve as a judge at martial arts tournaments. Today, I’m proud to be part of the team at Andersen Taekwondo, where I continue to train, teach, and support others in their martial arts journey.

Mr. Jim Szaro (Z-ARO)

Coming Soon

MR. JOSH STIGGE - 2nd DEGREE Black Belt Certified Instructor

I started taekwondo when I was six years old. As a child who couldn’t sit still, my parents thought it would be the perfect sport for me—and they were right!

I’ve been practicing ever since. I earned my 2nd Degree Black Belt at age 12 and went on to teach for another 12 years alongside my dad, mom, brother, and sister—all of whom joined the journey and earned their own black belts.

Taekwondo brought us closer as a family, taught me invaluable life skills, and introduced me to a second family—a supportive community that lifts you up. I recommend this sport to anyone who wants to feel stronger and prove to themselves they can do anything.

Outside of taekwondo, I’m a certified medical laboratory scientist specializing in microbiology. I use my training to work closely with doctors in helping heal patients. I love what I do, and I truly believe taekwondo gave me the foundation I needed to succeed in both my career and my life.

I hope it can do the same for you!

Ms. Amber Szaro (Z-ARO)

Ms. Amber Szaro - 2nd DEGREE Black Belt Certified Instructor

Taekwondo has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It's truly a family tradition—both of my parents, my uncle (Master Duncan), and all five of my older siblings have trained in taekwondo. Every one of my siblings earned their black belts, with some advancing to 4th Degree.

I began my own taekwondo journey at the age of five. I earned my 1st Degree Black Belt in 2016, my 2nd Degree in 2022, and received my certified black instructor’s stripe in 2023 at age 18.

Taekwondo is more than just a martial art—it’s a lifelong discipline that stays with you wherever life takes you. It teaches not only self-defense, but also essential life skills like confidence, focus, and perseverance. It truly has no age limit; people of all ages have something to gain from it.

One of the most rewarding parts of being involved in this community is watching students grow. They’re never the same person as when they first walked through our doors. Our school is like a family—with supportive instructors who challenge you to go beyond your limits and become the best version of yourself.

Someone especially important in my taekwondo journey is my grandma. She was bringing me to class before I could even walk—and now, I have the honor of driving her to class. To many, she’s known as Grandma Duncan, everyone’s taekwondo grandma.

Today, I continue to teach, compete in tournaments, and train to improve my skills. Outside of taekwondo, I enjoy creating art, watching anime, and taking my husky to the dog park.

Ms. Savannah Duncan - 2nd DEGREE Black Belt Certified Instructor

In Memory of

MASTER RICK STAACK - 7th DEGREE BLACK BELT

I started Gretna Taekwondo with the goal to offer not only self-discipline, but to give everyone the opportunity to have a better way of life - not only physically but mentally.

I feel that once you make the decision to start Taekwondo, you will begin to feel and notice the benefits immediately. In addition to learning self-defense, you will make life long friends and connections that will be with you throughout your life.

I began Taekwondo in 1977, with the American Taekwondo Association (ATA) and became a certified instructor in 1983. I
was regionally and nationally ranked in the top ten for point tournament competition during my competition years.

In 1989, I became associated with the Taekwondo American Association, and also started my career in law enforcement with the Sarpy County Sheriff's Department. Throughout my career I have enjoyed a variety of assignments including defensive tactics, certified under Pressure Point Control Tactics (PPCT) and as a member of the Emergency Service Unit (ESU), which is the Sarpy County division of SWAT.

My final position in Taekwondo was held as 7th Degree Black Belt that I obtained in September 2011.

While Rick passed away in 2012 his legend lives on in the teachings and standards in our program.

CALL US TODAY 402-681-2632​​