“Mark and the team in Mallow have helped my son grow in confidence like never before.” Emma T. from Mallow //// “We drive to the Kinsale Club every week — it’s worth it. You won’t find a better club or better instructors.” John S. /// “Cork ITA is more than a club it’s a community. Mark and the team are second to none.” Linda R. from Ladysbridge //
The CORK ITA Advantage
Confidence, discipline, and respect — skills for life, not just the Dojang.
Did you know that most kids struggle with confidence and focus?
At Cork ITA, we help children overcome self-doubt, build real resilience, and develop leadership skills that carry into every part of life.
For adults, it’s about mastering control — physically and mentally — while relieving stress and learning effective self-defense in a structured, respectful environment.
Led by Master Mark Buckley (VII Degree), Cork ITA delivers more than martial arts.
It builds stronger, braver, more focused people.
In a world full of distractions and uncertainty, confidence
and discipline are priceless.
At Cork ITA, we don’t just teach martial arts — we shape strong minds, resilient bodies,and future leaders.
Why CORK ITA ?
At Cork ITA, we don’t just build martial artists — we build champions for life.
Established Legacy: 30+ years of elite instruction under Master Mark Buckley (VII Degree)
Clubs Across Cork: Active locations in Mallow, Kinsale, Ladysbridge & beyond
Hundreds of Black Belts: Proudly certified under the Irish Taekwon-Do Association (ITA)
Proven Excellence: Multiple World, European & National Champions trained through our system
All Ages Welcome: Structured programs for kids, teens, and adults — beginners to black belt
Confidence & Discipline First: Every student grows in focus, respect, and personal strength
Cork ITA Programs
Whether it’s your child’s first step into martial arts, or you’re ready to push your own limits — there’s a class designed for you.
🥋 Little Ninjas (Ages 4–6)
Building early confidence, balance, coordination, and respect through fun, structured sessions.
🥋 Junior Taekwon-Do (Ages 7–12)
A strong foundation in discipline, technique, focus — with opportunities for competition and growth.
🥋 Senior Taekwon-Do (Teens & Adults)
Sharpen your mind and body with powerful
self-defense, fitness, and mindset training led by world-class instructors.
"Every belt earned is proof you showed up when it was easier to quit."
Cork ITA Philosophy
What our Members say...
At Cork ITA, we don’t just build martial artists — we build champions for life.
“The instructors at Cork ITA don’t just teach technique — they bring out the best in every student. My daughter has found her voice, her strength, and her passion here.”
Karen L., Parent from Ladysbridge
“We joined Cork ITA just looking for an activity — but what we got was a second family. The discipline, confidence, and respect my kids have gained is beyond anything we expected.”
Aisling K., Parent from Kinsale
“I started as a complete beginner in my 30s and was nervous walking in the door. Master Buckley and the team made me feel welcome from day one — now I’m fitter, more focused, and genuinely proud of what I’ve achieved.”
Sean M., Adult Student from Mallow
“Mark and the team in Mallow have helped my son grow in confidence like never before.” Emma T. from Mallow //// “We drive to the Kinsale Club every week — it’s worth it. You won’t find a better club or better instructors.” John S. /// “Cork ITA is more than a club it’s a community. Mark and the team are second to none.” Linda R. from Ladysbridge //
Meet Cork ITA Coaches
Master Mark buckley - VII Dan
Master Mark Buckley is Vice President of the Irish Taekwon-Do Association and Director of the National Team. With over 30 years of teaching experience, he has coached numerous national and international medalists.
Founder of Cork ITA Taekwon-Do, Master Buckley is known for his dedication to excellence and his lasting impact on Irish Taekwon-Do through coaching, leadership, and community development.
Ms. Aoife O'Mahony
Aoife O'Mahony is a 3rd Degree Black Belt and the longest-serving female instructor in the Irish Taekwon-Do Association. A former World Cup Champion and national titleholder, she’s known for her discipline, technical skill, and passion for teaching.
With over a decade of experience, Aoife mentors students of all ages — helping them grow in confidence, focus, and resilience through the values of Taekwon-Do.
QUALIFIED INSTRUCTOR WITH THE IRISH TAEKWON-DO ASSOCIATION (ITA) | GARDA VETTED THROUGH THE NATIONAL VETTING BUREAU | FIRST AID CERTIFIED | TRAINED IN CHILD SAFEGUARDING & WELFARE IN SPORT (SPORT IRELAND)
DESIGNATED LIAISON PERSON (DLP) FOR CHILD PROTECTION | FULLY INSURED UNDER THE NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY FOR TAEKWON-DO (ITA) | 7th DEGREE BLACK BELT AFFILIATED TO THE INTERNATIONAL TAEKWON-DO FEDERATION (ITF) | QUALIFIED ITF INTERNATIONAL UMPIRE (B-CLASS)
