Danyel discovered Haidong Gumdo in 2015 as a way to bond with his wife, Ashley, and build his community. What began as a shared hobby quickly became a lifelong passion. He realized the power of the sword to sharpen focus, discipline, and creativity (yes, even through his favorite activity: papercutting!).
After earning his Black Belt, Danyel took over his New Zealand club, rebranding it Whakatane Haidong Gumdo with core values of whānau (family/community), challenge, and fun. Under his leadership, the club soared—taking a team to the 2019 World Mulimpia in South Korea, and coaching a Gold Medalist and securing New Zealand’s “Top International Country” award in the 2021 World Mulipia.
In 2024, Danyel brought his expertise to Canada, founding Penticton Haidong Gumdo with a mission to spread the art across the South Okanagan and Canada. For him, teaching isn’t just about swords—it’s about guiding students to unlock their potential: “There’s nothing like witnessing someone’s journey to a Black Belt, and realizing they’ve transformed their life along the way.”
Join Danyel at Penticton Haidong Gumdo and take your first step to becoming a sword master.
Head Instructor, Penticton Haidong Gumdo
Vice President, Canada Haidong Gumdo Association
The sword is a tool for growth—both on and off the mats.
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