Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Academy Of Karate
Academy Of Karate has been a cornerstone of martial arts education in Waterbury for over 50 years. Founded in 1965 by Grandmaster Robert Beaudoin, we specialize in Tang Soo Do, a traditional Korean martial art emphasizing physical discipline, mental focus, and character development. Our school upholds the core tenets of integrity, respect, concentration, self-control, indomitable spirit, perseverance, and humility, fostering growth in students from age five to senior adults. With a legacy rooted in the World Tang Soo Do Association, we continue to honor Grandmaster Beaudoin's vision of combining martial arts excellence with educational leadership. Our experienced instructors, many of whom trained directly under Grandmaster Beaudoin, ensure a seamless continuation of his teachings.We offer structured programs tailored to all skill levels, emphasizing self-defense techniques, physical fitness, and ethical development. As one of New England's longest-operating martial arts schools, we remain committed to community enrichment through martial arts. Our curriculum integrates traditional practices with modern pedagogy, ensuring relevance for contemporary students. The academy's enduring success reflects our dedication to preserving Grandmaster Beaudoin's principles while adapting to evolving educational standards. We take pride in cultivating not just martial artists, but individuals of strong moral character.
Services
Martial Arts Classes
Youth Programs
Adult Karate
Self-Defense Training
Leadership Development
Details
- Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
- Over 50 years of martial arts instruction in Waterbury
- Direct lineage from Grandmaster Jae C. Shin's teachings
- Structured programs for all ages and skill levels
- Emphasis on character development alongside physical training
- Instructors with decades of combined teaching experience
Services
Martial Arts Classes
Our martial arts classes teach traditional Tang Soo Do techniques to students of all ages. Focused on physical conditioning, self-defense, and character development, these sessions help students progress through belt ranks while emphasizing core values like respect and perseverance. Classes maintain a balance between rigorous physical training and ethical instruction.
Youth Programs
Structured youth programs introduce children aged five and up to martial arts fundamentals. Instructors emphasize discipline, focus, and teamwork through age-appropriate exercises that build physical coordination and confidence while instilling respect and self-control.
Adult Karate
Adult karate classes focus on practical self-defense techniques, physical fitness, and stress relief. Participants develop strength, flexibility, and situational awareness while learning traditional Tang Soo Do forms and sparring techniques in a supportive environment for all experience levels.
Self-Defense Training
Specialized self-defense training teaches practical techniques for real-world scenarios. Students learn situational awareness, de-escalation strategies, and physical defense methods rooted in Tang Soo Do principles, emphasizing safety and confidence in personal protection.
Leadership Development
Leadership development programs integrate martial arts training with ethical instruction, fostering qualities like responsibility and integrity. Through structured curriculum and mentorship opportunities, students cultivate leadership skills applicable both inside and outside the dojo.
People
Grandmaster Robert Beaudoin
Founder
Founder of Academy Of Karate in 1965, Grandmaster Beaudoin trained under Grandmaster Jae C. Shin in Korea. He established Tang Soo Do in New England and held a Doctorate in Education, combining martial arts with academic leadership until his passing in 2020.
Anthony Bracco
Instructor
Instructor Anthony Bracco continues Grandmaster Beaudoin's legacy through dedicated teaching. With extensive martial arts experience, he focuses on technical precision and character development, maintaining the academy's traditional standards while engaging modern students.
Dan Farrelly
Master Instructor
Master Instructor Dan Farrelly brings decades of martial arts expertise to the academy. Certified through the World Tang Soo Do Association, he emphasizes practical self-defense applications and progressive skill development across all student levels.
Lauren Russo
Instructor
Instructor Lauren Russo specializes in youth martial arts programs. Her teaching approach combines structured discipline with encouraging mentorship, helping young students build confidence and foundational skills in a supportive environment.
George Berardi
Administrative Director
Administrative Director George Berardi oversees academy operations while supporting community outreach initiatives. With long-standing ties to the martial arts community, he ensures continuity in maintaining Grandmaster Beaudoin's educational vision.
Questions
What age can children start martial arts training?
Our youth programs accept students starting at age five, with curriculum specifically designed for different developmental stages.
What martial art does Beaudoin Academy teach?
We specialize in Tang Soo Do, a traditional Korean martial art focusing on striking techniques, forms, and self-defense.
How does the academy honor Grandmaster Beaudoin's legacy?
Current instructors, many trained directly by Grandmaster Beaudoin, maintain his teaching methods while continuing his educational mission.
What should I wear for my first class?
Beginners can wear comfortable workout attire; official uniforms are available for purchase after initial sessions.
Are classes available for adults with no experience?
Yes, our adult programs accommodate all skill levels, including complete beginners, with personalized progression through belt ranks.
