Sah Bum Nim Geronimo Jackson
Sah Bum Nim Geronimo Jackson is the owner and head instructor of First Central Coast Tang Soo Do, continuing a family legacy of martial arts instruction and community service established by his father, Grandmaster Teddy Jackson.
Geronimo began training in Tang Soo Do in 1987 at five years old. Growing up in the martial arts taught him far more than blocks, kicks, forms, and self-defense. It instilled in him the values of focus, perseverance, discipline, sincerity, and service principles that continue to shape his life and teaching today.
For nearly four decades, First Central Coast Tang Soo Do has been part of the Lompoc community. Founded by Grandmaster Jackson, it became the first Tang Soo Do school to offer classes through the City of Lompoc Parks and Recreation Department. Today, Sah Bum Nim Jackson carries that legacy forward by making traditional martial arts instruction accessible to children, teenagers, adults, and families throughout the Lompoc Valley.
Sah Bum Nim Jackson is especially known for his patience with children and his signature call for perseverance:
“NEVER WHAT?!”
Answered by his students:
“NEVER GIVE UP!”
This chant represents one of the many life lessons passed down to him by his father. It is more than something shouted during a difficult class it is a mindset students can carry into school, relationships, competition, and every challenge they encounter in life.
Under Sah Bum Nim Jackson’s leadership, First Central Coast Tang Soo Do combines traditional martial arts, practical self-defense, physical fitness, character development, and mentorship. His mission is not simply to produce skilled martial artists, but to help students develop confidence, resilience, self-control, respect, and the courage to continue when life becomes difficult.
His commitment extends beyond the dojang. Through free summer programs, community demonstrations, seminars, fundraisers, parades, and other local events, Sah Bum Nim Jackson works to ensure that First Central Coast Tang Soo Do remains an active and positive presence in Lompoc. The school’s longstanding partnership with the Recreation Department also helps make martial arts instruction available to families who may not otherwise have access to it.
Outside the dojang, Geronimo enjoys the freedom of riding his motorcycle, the challenge of mountain biking, hiking, and staying physically active. Above all, his greatest pride comes from being a father to his two daughters, whose love and encouragement continually inspire him to live by the same values he teaches.
His dedication to his Creator, his family, his students, and his community remains at the heart of everything he does. Looking toward the future, Sah Bum Nim Jackson is committed to strengthening the school, expanding its reach and preserving the legacy entrusted to him.
Sah Bum Nim Geronimo Jackson is more than a martial arts instructor. He is a mentor, father, community leader, and lifelong student of Tang Soo Do helping others discover their strength and resilience one lesson, one kick, one punch, and
one determined step at a time.
Tang Soo!