On July 4, 2025, catastrophic flash floods struck Central Texas, particularly devastating Kerr County, where the Guadalupe River surged by over 20 feet in just 45 minutes. The disaster claimed at least 111 lives, with 161 people still missing, including several from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls located along the river. Among the affected communities, the Taekwondo community in Texas has emerged as a beacon of resilience and support, stepping up to aid recovery efforts despite facing significant losses.
Impact on Taekwondo Dojangs
The floods caused widespread destruction, damaging homes, businesses, and infrastructure across the Texas Hill Country. Several Taekwondo dojangs (training halls) in Kerrville and surrounding areas suffered severe damage, with equipment ruined and facilities rendered unusable due to flooding. Local instructors reported that the rapid rise of the Guadalupe River caught many off guard, as flood warnings were issued too late to prevent significant losses. For example, a prominent dojang in Kerrville, which served as a community hub for martial arts training, had its floors, mats, and training gear swept away or destroyed by the floodwaters.
Despite these setbacks, the Taekwondo community has shown remarkable strength. Instructors and students have rallied to support one another, with many dojangs temporarily relocating classes to unaffected community centers or outdoor spaces. “Our dojang is more than a building; it’s the spirit of our students and their commitment to helping each other,” said Master Kim, a Taekwondo instructor in Kerrville, whose facility was heavily damaged.
Community Support and Fundraising Efforts
The Taekwondo community has been actively involved in recovery efforts. Local dojang leaders have organized fundraisers to support affected families, including those who lost loved ones or homes in the floods. These efforts include charity sparring tournaments, online donation campaigns, and community clean-up initiatives. One notable event, hosted by the Texas Taekwondo Association, raised funds to provide essentials like food, clothing, and temporary shelter for displaced families, including Taekwondo students and their families.
Taekwondo schools have also partnered with local organizations to distribute supplies and assist in search-and-rescue operations. Students trained in discipline and teamwork through Taekwondo have volunteered alongside first responders, helping to clear debris and search for missing individuals along the Guadalupe River. “Our training teaches us perseverance and service,” said Sarah Lee, a black belt student who volunteered in Kerrville. “We’re here to help our community rebuild.”
Challenges and Resilience
The floods have posed significant challenges for the Taekwondo community, particularly for smaller dojangs with limited resources. Rebuilding costs are substantial, and some schools may struggle to reopen without external support. Additionally, the emotional toll of the disaster has been profound, with many students and instructors grieving the loss of friends, family, or fellow martial artists.
Yet, the principles of Taekwondo—perseverance, integrity, and indomitable spirit—have guided the community’s response. Instructors are offering free classes to help students cope with trauma through physical activity and camaraderie. “Taekwondo is about building strength, not just physically but mentally,” said Master Park, who has been hosting outdoor classes to maintain a sense of normalcy for his students. “We’re using our art to heal and unite.”
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Looking Forward
As Kerr County and other affected areas begin to recover, the Taekwondo community is committed to long-term rebuilding efforts. Plans are underway to restore damaged dojangs, with some schools launching crowdfunding campaigns to replace equipment and repair facilities. The Texas Taekwondo Association is also advocating for improved Texas Flood warning systems, echoing calls from local officials for investments in infrastructure like flood sirens to prevent future tragedies.
The devastating Texas floods of July 2025 have left scars on the Taekwondo community, but they have also highlighted its strength and solidarity. Through fundraising, volunteer work, and a commitment to rebuilding, Taekwondo practitioners are demonstrating the true spirit of their martial art, supporting their communities in the face of unimaginable loss.
Founder, Owner, and CEO of TaekwondoKing.
He is one of the top 100 martial artists in the World and among the top 20 referees in Bangladesh.
Ehatasamul Alom is an esteemed Kukkiwon Certified Taekwondo 3rd Dan Black Belt with over 15 years of experience in this dynamic martial art. Born in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, Ehatasamul’s journey with Taekwondo began at the tender age of seven. His passion led him to compete at national and international levels, where he has bagged numerous awards and honors. He is also a member of the Taekwondo National Referee Panel.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science from the prestigious Rajshahi University, Ehatasamul has a deep understanding of the technical and scientific aspects of martial arts and some other martial arts.
In 2022, Ehatasamul created the “TaekwondoKing.com” blog to share his knowledge and Real experiences. His articles focus on Taekwondo training techniques, competition strategies, and the art’s rich history and philosophy. He also writes about the importance of mental fortitude and discipline, key aspects of his teaching philosophy. His goal is to inspire both beginners and seasoned practitioners worldwide through insightful and engaging content.
If you need any help, contact Ehatasamul Alom at any time.
