Beginnings in Martial Arts
Master Clare Marsch’s dedication to the martial arts is a testament to perseverance, passion, and leadership. Her journey began in 1973, during her undergraduate studies at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, where she first immersed herself in Korean martial arts. She further honed her skills in a Japanese martial arts style while pursuing graduate studies at the State University of New York at Albany.
Transition to Tang Soo Do
In 1979, Master Marsch relocated to San Diego and began training in Tang Soo Do under Master Young H. Kwon. Three years later, Master Hong Ku Baek took over the school, incorporating Hap Ki Do and Ki Gong into the curriculum. Master Marsch earned her Cho Dan in 1982, marking the beginning of her teaching career in Tang Soo Do.
Leadership at UC Tech Tang Soo Do
From 1983 to 2001, Master Marsch was the Chief Instructor at her own dojang, UC Tech Tang Soo Do in San Diego. Her expertise and dedication were recognized when she won the Grand Champion Female Cup at the 1992 World Championship in San Diego, CA. Her commitment to excellence continued, and in 1996, she was promoted to Sah Dan Master at the World Championship in Las Vegas, NV. This promotion was particularly significant as she was one of only three female candidates—alongside Master Carla Bennet and Master Carole Coker—promoted to Master at that time.
Master Clare Marsch: Pioneering Achievements and Contributions to WTSDA 🌍👏
Master Clare was promoted to 6th Dan last year – 2023, making her the first female 6th Dan Master in The World Tang Soo Do Association.
Achievements and Contributions to WTSDA
In 2016, Master Marsch achieved the rank of Oh Dan Master and joined the instructional team at Allied Gardens Tang Soo Do, working alongside Master Kenny Purnell and Master Patrick Marsch.
Master Marsch’s contributions to the World Tang Soo Do Association (WTSDA) have been profound. In the mid-1990s, she collaborated with Master Frank Waller to develop the proposal for the WTSDA Scholarship program, aimed at benefiting students within the association. In 2002, Grandmaster Shin appointed her as the first female Regional Director when Region 20 was established. She also played a crucial role in the development of the WTSDA Judges Training Certification program as a committee member under Master William Strong’s leadership.
Her dedication to promoting women and children’s participation in martial arts is evident through her chairmanship of the Women and Children’s Committee. She organized the 2018 WTSDA Women’s Demo, which featured over 450 female martial artists. Currently, Master Marsch serves on the WTSDA Strategic Planning Committee, providing oversight to the Marketing and Branding team.
Personal Life and Legacy
Master Clare Marsch’s personal life is equally fulfilling. She is married to Master Patrick Marsch, and together they are the proud parents of three grown children: Patrick, Nicole, and Elena Marsch.
Master Clare Marsch’s journey in Tang Soo Do is a remarkable story of commitment, leadership, and the continuous pursuit of excellence. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to martial artists around the world.
