About

Chief Master Michael Hemann was born in Baraboo, WI on November 22, 1953. He began his martial arts training in 1970 under the instruction of Eternal Grand Master H.U. Lee. Chief Master Hemann started his first club in Fort Dodge, IA later that same year.  He received his first degree black belt in 1971, and started his formal instructor training in 1972.

In 1978 Chief Master Hemann, as a 4th degree black belt, began teaching at the original school started by Eternal Grand Master H.U. Lee. In February 1985 he founded the Omaha ATA Black Belt Academy.

In 1994 after achieving the rank of 6th degree black belt, he was given the title of Songahm Master. He went on to serve as the Regional Chief of Instruction, Regional Director, and Regional Vice President. In 2001 after achieving the rank of 7th degree black belt, he was given the title of Senior Master of Songahm Taekwondo. He was ultimately honored with his 8th degree black belt by Grand Master Soon Ho Lee.

Chief Master Hemann passed away on November 22, 2008 at the age of 55, and is survived by his daughter Lisa and his son Tony. He spent his career working to pass on his knowledge and wisdom to his students and friends. Continuing to work with all ranks of his students, Chief Master Hemann had over 1000 active members of the ATA who were his students, or students of his students.

It is our goal to continue his legacy and pass the knowledge that Chief Master Hemann gave us, to a new generation of Taekwondo students.