About Master Dwayne McKinney
Dedicated to Martial Arts Excellence in Rochester, NY
Over 30 Years of Teaching Experience
For decades, Master Dwayne McKinney has been helping students throughout Rochester, NY develop confidence, discipline, self-defense skills, and physical fitness through martial arts training.
As the leader and head instructor of Unified Taekwondo Gold Fist School, he has dedicated much of his life to sharing the values and benefits of Taekwon-Do with children, teens, and adults throughout the community.
Today, Master McKinney serves as a 7th Degree Black Belt Instructor, bringing more than 30 years of teaching experience and a lifelong commitment to martial arts education.
Whether working with a young child taking their first martial arts class or an adult pursuing advanced training, Master McKinney believes every student has the potential to grow physically, mentally, and personally through consistent martial arts practice.
A Lifelong Martial Arts Journey
Master McKinney's martial arts career began at an early age as part of a family deeply involved in martial arts training. Growing up in an environment that valued discipline, respect, and personal achievement, he quickly developed a passion for Taekwon-Do and the positive impact it can have on people's lives.
He began his formal training under the instruction of Grand Master Bukwang Park, co-founder of the Unified Taekwon-Do Federation. Under Grand Master Park's guidance, Master McKinney developed a strong foundation in traditional Taekwon-Do principles, techniques, and philosophy.
His years of dedicated training helped him refine not only his technical skills but also his understanding of the values that make martial arts so beneficial for students of all ages. The lessons learned throughout his training continue to influence the way he teaches and mentors students today.
Success in Competition
Before opening his own school, Master McKinney established himself as a highly successful competitor on the martial arts tournament circuit.
His dedication, discipline, and skill earned him recognition throughout the region, including becoming a six-time Western New York State Grand Champion.
Competing at a high level allowed him to sharpen his techniques, deepen his understanding of martial arts strategy, and gain valuable experience that he now shares with his students.
Building Unified Taekwondo
After gaining valuable teaching experience and developing a strong reputation in the community, Master McKinney opened his own martial arts school in Rochester's 19th Ward.
His vision was simple: create a welcoming environment where students of all ages could receive high-quality martial arts instruction while learning important values that extend beyond the classroom.
In October 1996, Unified Taekwondo Gold Fist School moved to its current location at 202 Scottsville Road, where it continues to serve Rochester-area families today.
More than three decades later, the school remains a respected part of the local community. Many students who trained under Master McKinney as children have gone on to become successful adults while carrying the lessons learned through martial arts into their personal and professional lives.
A Teaching Philosophy Focused on Growth
Master McKinney believes that martial arts should challenge students while also supporting their individual growth and development. His teaching philosophy emphasizes:
Students learn to respect themselves, their instructors, fellow students, and the community around them.
Consistent effort and commitment help students achieve goals both inside and outside the martial arts classroom.
As students master new skills and progress through the belt system, they develop confidence that carries into school, work, and daily life.
Success in martial arts requires patience and determination. Students learn the value of continuing to work toward goals even when faced with challenges.
More Than Martial Arts Instruction
For Master McKinney, teaching martial arts has always been about more than physical techniques. He believes Taekwon-Do provides a framework for helping students become stronger individuals both mentally and physically.
Parents often notice improvements in their children's focus, confidence, and behavior after participating in martial arts training. Adult students frequently report increased fitness levels, reduced stress, and a greater sense of accomplishment.
Master McKinney takes pride in helping students discover their strengths while encouraging them to pursue continuous improvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Master McKinney has been teaching martial arts for more than 30 years and has trained students throughout Rochester since the early 1990s.
He is a 7th Degree Black Belt Instructor with extensive training and teaching experience.
Yes. He works with children, teens, and adults of all skill levels.
His approach combines traditional martial arts instruction with character development, self-confidence building, and personal growth.
Train with a Proven Martial Arts Instructor
If you're ready to improve your fitness, build confidence, learn self-defense, and become part of a supportive martial arts community, Unified Taekwondo is ready to help.
Visit us at 202 Scottsville Road in Rochester, NY, call (585) 233-3957, or email sabum63@gmail.com to learn more about our programs and schedule your first visit.
Discover why Rochester families have trusted Unified Taekwondo for more than 30 years.
