Summit Martial Arts proudly serving Mason City Since 2018
Summit Martial Arts has Classes in Mason City, Perfect for Kids, Teens, and Adults Martial Arts Lessons.
Who we Are And why You Should Train Here
At Summit Martial Arts, we are dedicated to changing lives one person at a time, through martial arts and life skills, yes, but also through relationships. We believe that the more we invest in each other the stronger and better our communities will be. This begins right here in our gym, in the way that we strive to provide a safe, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for all students and their families. Whether it’s children reading or coloring on the sidelines, parents knitting or crocheting, grandparents watching and cheering on their grandchildren – Summit truly is a multigenerational space.
We strongly believe that Taekwondo is for everyone, regardless of age, gender or experience level – that it can be an empowering part of your daily routine. We stand behind our realistic and practical approach to training, while also encouraging laughter and joy in the process. We are confident that training here at Summit, should you choose to join us, will be a positive experience – not just for your body, but for your self.
Message us today, to find out how you can be a part of the community we are building here. We’d love to have you.
Get To Know Our World Class Owner!
Zain Sokol
My name is Zain Sokol, and I am a 2nd degree black belt. I started training in early 2021, when I was 14 years old. I attended a homeschooling class that was offered, when Summit Martial Arts was still a small business meeting in the church – and I fell in love with it. I was really looking for a competitive atmosphere in a new-to-me sport, and Summit provided that. What I didn’t know is taekwondo would change my life and lead me to a community of people who would significantly impact my life.
For me, teaching taekwondo is so much more than teaching kids how to kick and punch. While that is certainly a part of our instruction, the most important thing to me is teaching kids respect, teaching them about their value as human beings, and seeing them grow in confidence.
While I have some big shoes to fill, having recently bought the business from Mrs. Faith Clevenger (our founder), I am very excited for the journey ahead.
Get to Know Our Amazing Staff!
Elsie Sokol
My name is Elsie Sokol, and I am a 2nd Degree Black Belt. I began training at Summit Martial Arts in Spring 2021, and over time gradually joined my brother working here.
My favorite part of working at Summit is being with the kids (you may often see me teaching Tiny Tigers). My favorite part of Taekwondo in general is kicking.
My favorite weapons are definitely nunchux, and my favorite form is 3rd Degree Black Belt Form.
Alaina Clarke
My name is Alaina Clarke, and I am a 3rd Degree Black Belt. I began training at Summit Martial Arts in 2020, and began working here in 2021.
I love to meet new people, talk to and build relationships with parents. I also really enjoy attending tournaments and cheering on our students.
My favorite weapons are nunchux and kamas. My favorite form is probably the Black Belt kama form.
Lux Deford
My name is Lux DeFord, and I am Summit’s newest instructor! I began training at Summit Martial Arts in July 2021, began working here in November 2025, and am proud to have my 2nd Degree Black Belt.
My favorite thing about Summit is the community. I have made so many friends in my time here and am sure I will make still more in the future.
My favorite traditional form is the 2nd Degree Black Belt Form, and my favorite weapons form is the Bo Staff Form.
Sarah Etheridge
My name is Sarah Etheridge, and I am a 2nd Degree Black Belt.
I have been with Summit Martial Arts since the beginning, in the fall of 2018. I primarily work on Thursday nights, and do a variety of things, from managing the front desk, to inventory, to attendance, and helping run events. I do it all! My favorite part of Summit Martial Arts is the comradery that develops, the community, and getting to know so many people.
My favorite weapons are kamas and sword, and as a result, my favorite form is the Black Belt Kama form.
Stephanie Sokol
My name is Stephanie Sokol, and as you may have guessed – my son is the owner, one of my daughters is an instructor, and I am an employee as well! I guess you could say it’s a family business! I began working here around the time my children started training in the fall of 2021, but didn’t start training myself till May 2023. (I’m the reason Mom Class started!) I work the desk much of the week, helping our students, answering questions, sending out weekly announcements, and anything and everything else I can do to help!
My favorite weapon is Bo Staff, and my favorite form is the blue belt form – In Wha 2.
