About Master Nelson

I started my training in 1994, at the age of 10, in Roseburg, OR. As a Ninja Turtles-obsessed 10-year-old, my parents decided that martial arts would be a good way to help me open up and have a physical outlet. Little did they know that their decision would give way to a life long passion for me.

I trained at the Roseburg Martial Arts Academy under Master John Auer and received my cho dan at 15. After leaving Roseburg for college, I found myself without any TSD options nearby, so I instead trained in other styles such as judo, shotokan, aikido, wrestling, and bjj.

I eventually moved out of Oregon and to Seattle, WA where I was able to reconnect with my WTSDA family and continue training. I trained under Master Steven Elmore at Evergreen Tang Soo Do where I would achieve my 2nd, 3rd, and 4th-degree ranks. This is also where I started my first dojang, Loyal Heights Martial Arts.

In my time with the WTSDA, I’ve served as treasurer, registration chair, and technology chair for Region 1. I’ve also been integral in planning and operating region 1 tournaments and I was the creator of the new R1 black belt camp on the Oregon Coast. I’m also 2x grand champion of R1.

In 2019, my spouse and I decided to move from Seattle, WA to Los Angeles, CA to pursue new opportunities. I’m fortunate to now be a part of the WTSDA Region 20’s strong TSD community and the Los Angeles martial arts community at large.