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Legacy AMA was started in 2009 in St. Paul, MN by husband and wife team Jack Smail and Jena Bushey. Between the two of them, there are over 30 years of experience in taekwondo, and 15 years of teaching experience to all ages and abilities. From the beginning, they have tried to foster an environment reflecting their passion for the martial arts, teaching respect for others, friendship, and self-discipline, while still having lots of fun.
In 2010, Legacy AMA moved into its current 3600 square foot studio on Robert Street in West St. Paul where it continues to grow. In this new building, in addition to our usual classes, we can offer on site seminars in child safety, anti-bully training, women's self defense, and birthday parties! In the summer of 2011, tai chi will be added to our offerings, and look for Brazillian jiu jitsu coming fall 2011.
Jena Bushey is a 4th Degree Black Belt who started her taekwondo training in 1995 and has been a Certified Instructor since 2005, though she has been teaching for longer. Ms. Bushey is a strong leader and a fine technician of martial arts, having achieved a number of state championships. She has also received an award for her leadership ability, and has trained countless students to achieve their goals, from black belt to tournament championships to losing weight. For the last two years, she has also added tai chi to her training. She has found it to be a great source of stress relief and a way to improve her balance, awareness, and body movement. Outside of her martial arts training, Ms. Bushey has a B.S. in Chemistry and minor in Business magna cum laude from Augsburg College. She is an supporter of healthy food and fitness education for all, as the editor of the AMAI Ki Nung Life newsletter. She also enjoys music, theater, and gardening.
Mr. Smail started his Taekwondo journey in 1994 in Michigan at the age of 11. Continuing his training through grade school and college Mr. Smail earned the rank of 3rd degree black belt, became one of the main teachers at his instructor’s martial art school, and eventually opened a Taekwondo club in his hometown of Manchester. Upon graduating from college he moved to Minnesota and together with his wife, Ms. Bushey, he opened Legacy AMA in 2009. Beyond Taekwondo Mr. Smail also has earned a blue belt in the Gracie Brazilian jiu jitsu system..
