🇺🇸 Empowerment Through Inclusion:
Master Michelle Golino-Crisco – The USA’s Trailblazer for Inclusive Taekwon-Do
In the heart of the United States, a powerful force is reshaping what martial arts means for people of all abilities. That force is Master Michelle Golino-Crisco—affectionately known as Master G—a 7th-degree black belt and one of only three women to hold this title in the Unified International Taekwon-Do Federation. As the USA representative for the International Inclusive Taekwon-Do Association (IITA) and Founder of ACETSS.org (A Charity Empowered to Save Souls), she is a true pioneer of inclusive martial arts in America.
> “Inclusive Taekwon-Do isn’t just possible—it’s powerful,” says Master G. “Together, we are rewriting what’s possible and changing lives—one soul at a time.”
Her connection to Taekwon-Do is deeply personal. After losing her father to gun violence at the age of 12, the martial art became a sanctuary—an outlet to rebuild strength, purpose, and faith. That experience would later inspire her to help others find healing and resilience through martial arts, particularly those with disabilities and trauma histories.
Since the early 2000s, Inclusive Taekwon-Do has grown across the USA, with individuals like Master G leading the charge. Through ACETSS.org, she offers programs that combine martial arts with emotional resilience, personal safety, and dignity. Her students include individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, PTSD, Down syndrome, anxiety, physical disabilities, limb differences, and more. Training often involves mobility aids, sensory tools, and family support systems, creating a welcoming and adaptable environment.
> “We teach more than kicks and punches—we teach people to reclaim their voice, their space, and their confidence.”
Over her decades of instruction since 1989, Master G has witnessed countless stories that affirm the value of this work. One student with no arms learned to defend herself using her legs. A double amputee found balance through breath control. A student who hadn’t spoken in years said “Taekwon” for the first time. Another, blind, broke boards with joy. These are not isolated miracles—they are reflections of the transformation that Inclusive Taekwon-Do makes possible.
Across the country, the USA is building strong support structures for inclusion in martial arts. Organizations like USA Taekwondo, Athletes Without Limits, Therapeutic Martial Arts International, World Para-Taekwondo Instructor’s Association, and Special Olympics Unified Sports are contributing to a growing ecosystem that welcomes athletes of all abilities. While Taekwon-Do is not yet a Special Olympics sport in the U.S., the values of unity and equity deeply align with Master G’s vision.
At the local level in Orlando, Florida, ACETSS.org runs weekly Taekwon-Do classes in five locations, along with inclusive camps, self-defense workshops, buddy days, and ambassador programs. Master G is also actively working to integrate Inclusive Taekwon-Do into Central Florida’s Special Olympics network.
> “We want to reach schools, underserved areas, and anyone who’s been told they’re not strong enough. We’re here to prove they are.”
Being part of IITA has given Master G and her community international recognition, solidarity, and inspiration. It’s a global movement that reaffirms what she and many others have always believed—that Taekwon-Do is for everyone.
Her message to the world is clear:
> “Open your hearts and open your dojangs. Inclusive Taekwon-Do can change lives—it already has. And your mission matters.”
Follow the journey of Master G and her team at www.acetss.org/blog, and be part of the growing wave of instructors changing lives around the world through IITA.
