Saddle Rock ATA
Our Instructors
At Saddle Rock ATA, our nationally certified instructors specialize in teaching the art of Taekwondo and self-defense. They exemplify core virtues such as honesty, integrity, respect, and discipline, while fostering self-esteem, confidence, and leadership in students of all ages—children, teens, and adults.
As students progress, they have the opportunity to explore sparring and weapons training, further enhancing their skills and confidence. Our dedicated professionals are committed to personal growth, development, and helping each student reach their full potential!
Jill Cross - Chief instructor - 5th-degree black belt
I started my training in Taekwondo when I was 17 years old (1994). At the time, it was just a fun activity to do with a friend. I knew that I wanted to earn a black belt, but never considered the possibility of making a career out of this sport.
I graduated from the University of Denver with a B.A. in Communication & Broadcast Journalism and worked as a TV producer for Animal Planet & The Discovery Channel after graduating from DU.Â
At 23, I started helping out with classes and began the instructor training program, which led to being a full-time instructor.
"My goal as an instructor, is not only to teach my love and passion for TKD/martial arts to others, but my ultimate goal is to have my students become greater martial artists than me. With all the years experience I have in martial arts, I feel like I've barely scratched the surface. And what better way to share all that knowledge, than to our future leaders." - Jill Cross
Alex Gardner - Instructor - 2nd Degree Black Belt
My journey in martial arts began when I was just 7 years old, stepping into my first taekwondo class. Over the past 30 years, my passion has only grown, leading me to earn black belts in Tang Soo Do, Karate, and ATA taekwondo.
Although I initially pursued education at the University of New Mexico, it wasn’t until I discovered ATA that I considered teaching martial arts professionally. Now, as an instructor, I have the privilege of sharing my love for martial arts with my students, including my two daughters. Martial arts and the mentors I’ve had along the way have profoundly impacted my life, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to pass on that positivity to others.
"My love for Martial Arts began a family activity that changed us together and individually. It's because of the unexpected benefits we got out of martial arts that I decided to become an instructor!" - Alex Gardner
Could This Be You? INSTRUCTOR - Get Started Today!
Did you know that with Saddle Rock ATA, you too have the ability to become a certified instructor through our Legacy Program. We all started our martial arts training the same way...with the first class!
It's doesn't matter when you start, it matters that you start, so schedule your trial today!
"When I started taekwondo, I didn't start with the goal of becoming an instructor. I fell in love with martial arts and wanted to share the benefits with my community!"Â - Your Future Self
Empower yourself with every lesson!
What Others Say About Saddle Rock ATA
