Martial arts has been a constant companion for Grandmaster Jeffrey W. Helaney throughout his life, shaping his journey from childhood to retirement. It’s not just a discipline for him; it’s a philosophy, a passion, and a way of life. He humbly shares the story of how martial arts became a guiding force in his personal and professional life.
How did your martial arts journey begin?
It all started back in 1969 in the Benson area of Omaha, Nebraska. I first stepped into martial arts under the guidance of Su Ki Shin. But honestly, it was my father, Wallace Helaney, who planted the seed for me. He was a decorated World War II underwater demolitions diver, and his deep respect for martial arts really inspired me. His influence instilled in me the values of respect, discipline, and perseverance, which have guided me ever since.
What was your early training like?
I began my formal training at the Omaha Karate and Judo School, where I was fortunate to be mentored by Grandmaster S.K. Shin. The 1970s were formative years for me in martial arts. I trained under incredible mentors like Master Fred VanAckeren and Master Steve Johnson, both of whom had a profound impact on my understanding of martial arts—physically and philosophically.
You had a career in law enforcement as well. How did that tie into your martial arts journey?
Yes, in 1984, I joined law enforcement, and that experience was instrumental in shaping my discipline and mental fortitude. As I rose through the ranks, I continued to practice martial arts. The core values of martial arts—respect, perseverance, and humility—complemented my law enforcement work. At the same time, my experiences on the force helped enrich my martial arts teachings, especially when it came to conflict resolution and discipline.
What did the 1980s and 1990s bring to your martial arts career?
The 1980s were a time of expansion for me. I added Combatique, Hapkido, and more TaeKwon-Do training to my skill set. These new disciplines broadened my martial arts perspective and helped in my law enforcement work. But the 1990s were particularly special. In 1996, I started the Kick Drugs Out of Alliance (KDOA) program. It combined martial arts with drug education to help at-risk youth. It was a humbling experience to see the program take off, and it was recognized by several organizations, including the Ohio House of Representatives and even a former U.S. President.
The success of KDOA brought me recognition, and in 2003, I was named Grandmaster of the Year by Budo Magazine, which was a proud moment in my martial arts career. But for me, it was always about the impact on others, especially the young people who benefited from the program.
In 2007, you opened Omaha Blue Waves Martial Arts. What motivated that decision?
After retiring from law enforcement in 2005, I found myself at a crossroads. I had enjoyed my career in law enforcement, but martial arts had always been my true passion. That’s when I decided to open Omaha Blue Waves Martial Arts in 2007. I wanted to create a space where martial arts could be more than just a skill—it could be a way for people to grow personally and build relationships. Over the years, the school has become a community for students of all ages, and teaching them has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.
What role has teaching played in your martial arts journey?
Teaching has brought me a sense of fulfillment that words can hardly capture. It’s incredibly humbling to see students grow—not just in their martial arts skills, but in their character. There’s something special about watching someone overcome personal obstacles and achieve their goals, whether it’s earning a black belt or gaining the confidence to tackle life’s challenges. It’s an honor to play a small part in that transformation.
You’ve received some remarkable recognition over the years. What does it mean to you?
I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition throughout my career, and I’m deeply grateful. In 2014, I was humbled to be awarded the 9th Dan black belt in Traditional TaeKwon-Do, a milestone that came after over 50 years of dedication. But, for me, it’s always been more about the journey than the accolades. My upcoming promotion to 8th Degree Black Belt in Hapkido in 2025 is something I’m looking forward to, but I always remind myself that learning is a lifelong process.
Beyond personal achievements, I’ve also had the privilege of serving as President and Founder of the United States Kido Federation and advising organizations like the International Jun Tong TaeKwon-Do Federation and the World Tae Sool Association. These roles allow me to continue giving back to the martial arts community, and that’s something I truly value.
What do you hope your legacy will be?
I’ve always hoped that my journey will be more about the impact I’ve had on others than anything I’ve achieved for myself. Martial arts has allowed me to help countless people build confidence, resilience, and discipline. It’s been a privilege to touch lives in that way, and it’s what continues to inspire me. I’m proud that the principles I learned from my father and mentors are still guiding the next generation of martial artists.
What’s next for you?
Looking ahead, I’m excited about the future. There’s always more to learn, more to teach, and more lives to impact. Martial arts has been the foundation of my life, and I will continue to share it with others for as long as I can. There’s no end to the journey—it’s a path of continuous growth and service, and I’m grateful for every step of it.
Grandmaster Jeffrey W. Helaney’s journey is a testament to the power of martial arts not just as a physical practice, but as a way of living and giving. With humility, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to service, he continues to inspire those around him. His journey is far from over, and the impact he’s had will undoubtedly continue to resonate for years to come.
~Originally published in USKF -EMagazine
