Master Teresa Grissom

Master Teresa Grissom began her Tang Soo Do training in 1981 in Walla Walla, Washington, under the instruction of Mr. John Malloy. In 1982, following her husband’s enlistment in the United States Marine Corps, she relocated multiple times to Arizona, California, and South Carolina. Throughout these moves, she remained dedicated to her training and continued to develop her skills.

In 1987, Master Grissom earned her Cho Dan (1st Degree Black Belt) under Mr. Robert Weichel. In 1989, she and her family moved to Minnesota, where she continued her training and earned her E Dan (2nd Degree Black Belt) in 1990.

In 1992, she and her husband founded Circle Pines Karate Institute. She continued her advancement in the art and, in 1996, earned her Sam Dan (3rd Degree Black Belt) under then–Region 3 Director Master David Schmitt. During this time, she also raised three children, demonstrating exceptional dedication and commitment to both her family and her martial arts journey.

In 1999, Master Grissom became the Chief Instructor of Circle Pines Karate Institute. She was promoted to Sah Dan (4th Degree Black Belt), Master, in 2006. Following a relocation of the studio to Lexington, Minnesota, and a subsequent name change to MG Karate, she continued her progression and was promoted to Oh Dan (5th Degree Black Belt) at the World Championships in 2014.