Today we’d like to introduce you to Gastón Calone.
Hi Gastón, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey in Taekwondo began when I was just 11 years old, back in Uruguay. From the very first class, I was captivated by the discipline, energy, and spirit of self-improvement that Taekwondo represents. I started training with my uncles, who are now Seventh and Sixth Degree Black Belts, and from them I learned not only how to kick and spar, but also how to stay humble and respectful through every step of the journey.
I earned my Black Belt at the age of 15, and that’s when I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to teaching. I’ve always loved helping others — guiding students to become better versions of themselves both on and off the mat.
I had the honor of being part of the Uruguayan National Sparring Team and representing my country in four World Championships. Here in the United States, I became a three-time State Champion and a three-time District Champion — achievements that remind me every day of the power of discipline and perseverance.
In 2022, my wife and I opened Golden Phoenix Martial Arts. We started by teaching classes at a local park, and just a few months later, we were able to open our own location — the one we proudly call home today. My wife has been a fundamental part of this journey from the very beginning, and together with our two beautiful children, she is the heart and soul of our school.
Today, Golden Phoenix Martial Arts is home to more than 80 students, many of whom have earned state and district titles. But beyond tournaments and medals, what truly fills me with pride is seeing how our students become champions in life — confident, kind, and strong young leaders who help others rise as well.
At Golden Phoenix, our mission goes beyond teaching how to fight. We teach how to grow.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has definitely not always been smooth — and that’s part of what makes this journey so meaningful. Starting Golden Phoenix Martial Arts wasn’t easy. In the beginning, we were teaching classes in a local park, often facing challenges like unpredictable weather and limited resources. Building a strong student base from scratch required patience, persistence, and a lot of community outreach.
Moving into our own location a few months later was a dream come true, but it came with new responsibilities: managing a business, balancing teaching with administration, and making sure every student felt valued and supported. On a personal level, learning to juggle family life, running a school, and continuing my own training has been a constant challenge — but having my wife and children by my side has made all the difference.
Every struggle has taught me resilience, creativity, and the importance of teamwork. Those early obstacles didn’t hold us back — they helped shape the kind of school we have today, one that not only creates champions on the mat but also champions in life.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At Golden Phoenix Martial Arts, we specialize in Taekwondo for students of all ages and skill levels. While we focus on traditional forms, sparring, and board breaking, what really sets us apart is our philosophy: we train champions both on and off the mat. That means we don’t just teach techniques — we teach confidence, leadership, discipline, and respect.
I personally enjoy coaching sparring and helping students reach their full potential, whether it’s preparing them for competitions or helping them achieve personal growth goals. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of guiding students to state and district championships, and seeing them succeed at tournaments is incredibly rewarding. But what I’m most proud of is witnessing students develop life skills that go far beyond Taekwondo — teamwork, responsibility, and resilience.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is actually tied to the hard work and sacrifice of my parents. They worked day and night to provide for me and my three siblings. Growing up in a very poor area, I saw firsthand what it meant to work hard and never give up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://goldenphoenixmartialarts.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldenphoenixmartialarts
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Golden-Phoenix-Martial-Arts-104349462332575
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@goldenphoenixmartialarts
