Why Our School?
Martial Training in Hanover, MA – Xcel Taekwondo
Looking for the Best Taekwondo School on the South Shore?
For over 20 years, Xcel Taekwondo in Hanover, MA has proudly served families across the South Shore as one of the most trusted and top-rated martial arts schools. Whether you’re searching for kids’ martial arts classes in Hanover, adult Taekwondo lessons, or a family-friendly martial arts program, we have a program designed for you.
Our team of certified black belt instructors is not only skilled in martial arts but also active professionals in health, education, and the local community. In our clean, safe, and fully equipped facility, students gain more than physical skills. We teach the core values of Respect, Self-Confidence, and Discipline—the foundation of true martial arts training.
Parents consistently choose Xcel Taekwondo because they see real improvements at home and at school. Our students become more focused, responsible, and motivated—many even taking initiative without being asked.
If you’re looking for martial arts in Hanover, MA or want the best Taekwondo school on the South Shore, Xcel Taekwondo is your answer.
✅ Kids’ Martial Arts & Taekwondo Classes
✅ Adult Martial Arts & Self-Defense Training
✅ Family-Friendly Martial Arts Programs
Ready to get started? Visit us in Hanover, MA, and try a free introductory class today. Discover why so many families trust Xcel Taekwondo as their go-to martial arts school.
Master Fabio Takahashi
Fabio Takahashi is a 5th Degree Black Belt with over 34 years of experience in Taekwondo and more than two decades dedicated to coaching and athlete development. His journey in the sport spans multiple continents, having trained and competed at a high level representing Brazil, Japan, and the United States.
As an athlete, Fabio built an impressive competitive résumé, earning titles such as U.S. Cup Champion, AAU National Team Member, Massachusetts State Champion, and Junior Pan-American Silver Medalist, in addition to representing both the Brazilian and Japanese national teams and becoming an 8-time Minas Gerais State Champion in Brazil.
As a coach, he has established himself on the international stage, serving as Head Coach of the Jamaican National Team since 2011 and leading athletes at major events including the World Taekwondo Championships, Olympic Festival, and U.S. Olympic Team Trials. He was also nominated as part of the United States coaching staff during the 2017–2018 cycle, further recognizing his expertise at the highest levels of the sport. His coaching philosophy blends traditional Taekwondo values with modern, high-performance training systems used at the elite level.
In addition to his martial arts credentials, Fabio is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and holds a degree in Business Administration, allowing him to integrate sports science and structured development into his programs.
Through Xcel Taekwondo, Fabio Takahashi is committed to developing not only champions in competition, but confident, disciplined individuals prepared for success in all areas of life.
Fernanda Takahashi
Fernanda is a 3rd-degree black belt with over 18 years of experience in martial arts. She began her Taekwondo journey in Brazil, where she trained and competed at a high level, building a strong technical and competitive foundation.
She has been a dedicated instructor at Xcel Taekwondo for the past five years, playing an important role in developing students through structured training, discipline, and positive mentorship.
As a competitor, Fernanda has achieved notable success on the international and national stage, earning a bronze medal at the Pan American Open Championships and placing 3rd at the 2023 AAU National Championships.
Fernanda brings passion, experience, and a strong commitment to excellence, helping students grow both as athletes and individuals.
Joao Victor Costa
João Victor Costa is a 3rd-degree black belt with over 15 years of experience in Taekwondo. He has trained in both Brazil and the United States, building a strong and well-rounded technical foundation.
He has been an instructor at Xcel Taekwondo Center for the past four years, where he plays an important role in mentoring students and supporting their growth in both training and competition.
As a competitor, João Victor has achieved notable success, including being named an AAU National Team Member in 2024. He is a five-time Massachusetts State Champion, a gold medalist at the 2024 East Coast Grand Prix, and is currently ranked among the top five athletes in the United States in his division.
João Victor brings dedication, experience, and a competitive mindset, serving as a leader and role model within the Xcel Taekwondo program.
Fiona Shortt
Fiona Shortt is a 2nd degree Black Belt and has been practicing Taekwondo for 12 years. Over the last six years, she has competed and medalled both nationally and internationally. In addition, Fiona has been on the USA Taekwondo National Rankings for the last five years as both a cadet and junior.
Tyler Balestracci
Instructor Tyler is a 2nd-degree black belt with over 12 years of experience in Taekwondo. He actively competes at both the national and international levels, consistently demonstrating a high standard of performance.
Tyler is an 8-time State Champion and is currently ranked among the top 10 athletes in the United States in his division. He is also a two-time consecutive National High School Champion, highlighting his continued success at the highest level of scholastic competition.
In addition to his athletic achievements, Tyler is recognized as an All-American student-athlete and is currently pursuing a degree in Sports Management.
As an instructor, Tyler brings strong competitive experience, discipline, and leadership, serving as a positive role model for students at Xcel Taekwondo.
Cassie Lopes
Cassie Lopes is currently a first degree Black Belt and has been practicing Taekwondo for over eight years. She has been competing regionally for the Xcel Competition Poomsae team for over a year.