Sr. Grandmaster Donald R. Moore Recognized as 9th Degree Black Belt
Synergy Combat Arts Association formally announces that Sr. Grandmaster Donald R. Moore has been recognized with the rank of 9th Degree Black Belt (9th Dan) by the International Taekwon-Do Federation–Americas.
Within the system founded by General Choi Hong Hi, the 9th Dan represents the highest technical degree attainable — a distinction reserved for senior masters whose lifetime of contribution reflects mastery, leadership, and preservation of the art.
The International Taekwon-Do Federation traces directly to General Choi Hong Hi, founder of modern Taekwon-Do, who established the technical framework, tul system, and global standards that define traditional ITF practice. The 9th Dan designation stands at the summit of that system — symbolizing decades of instruction, organizational leadership, curriculum preservation, and responsible transmission of rank.
Grandmaster Moore’s martial arts career spans almost fifty years of disciplined training, teaching, and federation leadership. His foundation includes traditional Tang Soo Do/Moo Duk Kwan and Chang Moo Kwan roots, later integrating, Hapkido principles, and structured combative methodology into a lineage-respecting curriculum.
Throughout his career he has:
- Produced multiple black belts and senior instructors
- Established affiliate schools and charter programs
- Preserved traditional hyung and tul forms
- Maintained conservative rank standards
- Emphasized ethical certification practices
- Promoted cross-organizational respect within traditional martial arts
As Founder and President of Synergy Combat Arts Association and Head of Tae Kwon Do Chang Moo Kwan America, Grandmaster Moore has worked to preserve authentic martial arts standards while providing structured leadership for independent instructors and affiliated schools.
The 9th Dan recognition within the ITF-Americas framework affirms both technical achievement and generational responsibility. In traditional understanding, a 9th Degree Black Belt represents custodianship of the art and the responsibility to preserve its integrity for future generations.
“This recognition reflects the instructors who came before me, the direct lineage established by General Choi Hong Hi, and the students who will carry the art forward. Rank is temporary — responsibility is permanent.”
For training information, federation inquiries, or affiliate opportunities, please contact:
Synergy Combat Arts Inc.
Metropolis, Illinois
847-370-6175