Who we Are And why You Should Train Here

ROMA Tang Soo Do, established in 2023, offers traditional Korean martial arts training for children (ages 6+), teens, and adults. Our curriculum focuses on developing strong foundational skills, discipline, respect, and self-confidence. Students learn Tang Soo Do techniques, forms, and self-defense, while also gaining physical fitness and mental focus. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced martial artist, ROMA provides a supportive environment to grow and excel. We’ve been dedicated to changing the lives of people one person at a time, through martial arts, education and coaching. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for all students and family members. We take pride in creating an environment for individuals to achieve, develop and succeed in their personal goals. 

We strongly believe that martial arts can be for everyone, regardless of age, gender or experience levels. Throughout all of our programs, students will not only learn the necessary skill sets to protect themselves, we stand behind our realistic and practical approach, confident it will enable every member to achieve greatness and live their best life. Join us and discover the benefits of this dynamic martial art!

Our Mission

At ROMA Tang Soo Do, our mission is to inspire and empower individuals of all backgrounds through martial arts education. We are dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of Tang Soo Do while fostering modern values of inclusion, integrity and personal excellence.

Marc Oster

Marc Oster

4th Degree Black Belt Instructor

Mr. Oster Began his formal martial arts training in 1973. In 1974, he joined the Western Michigan University Karate club and became a member of the United States Korean Karate Association. Starting as an assistant instructor in the WMU Physical Education Department, Mr. Oster went on to teach his own PE classes in Tang Soo Do Karate. He earned his 1st Degree Black Belt in 1976. his 2nd Degree in 1978, and in 1982 his 3rd Degree. Mr. Oster moved to the Chicago area and while working on his doctorate degree in Psychology he began a Tang Soo Do club. Mr. Oster is a Certified Instructor and a Certified International Judge with the WTSDA. In 2025 he was promoted to 4th Degree Black Belt. In 2025 his martial arts involvement spanned 52 years.

 

Outside of martial arts, Dr. Oster is a licensed Clinical Psychologist with a part-time private practice. He resides in Bloomingdale, Illinois, with his wife, Pamela Russell.

Pamela Russell

Pamela Russell

4th Degree Black Belt Master

Master Russell began her formal martial arts training in 1987 in Tang Soo Do and Hapkido. Over the last 38 years she has trained with various Master Instructors in the World Tang Soo Do Association (WTSDA). Master Russell earned her 1st degree Black Belt in Tang Soo Do in 2006, her 2nd Degree in 2008, her 3rd degree in 2012 and her 4th Degree in 2020. He also earned her 1st Degree In Hapkido in 2006 and her 2nd Degree in 2011. Master Russell became an Assistant Instructor in 2000 and is now a Certified Master Instructor and a Certified Internal Judge with WTSDA. She has also been a visiting martial arts instructor at WTSDA schools across the United States and Central America.

Outside of martial arts, master Russell has a strong background in education and technology. She worked as a Teacher’s Assistant in the Villa Park School District 45 while earning her Bachelor of Science in Education from Elmhurst College. She later received an MBA in Information Systems from Roosevelt University. Currently, she is a Senior Director of Managed Services at True Group, Inc.

Master Russell resides in Bloomingdale, Illinois, with her husband, Dr. Marc Oster