About Our Studio
Learn more about our mission, journey, values, and the team
Our Mission
Our mission is to make a positive difference in our communities through the practice of martial arts. We are dedicated to fostering confidence, discipline, and respect within a welcoming and inclusive environment. With skilled instruction and a strong community spirit, we guide each student toward achieving their personal best—both in training and in everyday life."
How We Work
Our shared values keep us connected and guide us as one team.
Respect
We believe in treating others with kindness and consideration. Respect is the foundation of all our interactions, both in and out of the studio. It fosters a positive environment where everyone feels valued.
Discipline
Discipline is key to mastering martial arts and achieving personal goals. Through consistent practice and self-control, our students learn the importance of dedication and perseverance in all aspects of life.
Confidence
We empower our students to believe in themselves and their abilities. Building confidence through martial arts helps individuals face challenges head-on and succeed in their personal and professional lives.
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of honesty and ethics in all our actions. Integrity is about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and it is a core principle of our training.
Meet The Team Behind Texas Isshinryu Karate Kai of Denton
We’re a small team that loves to create great experiences for our community.
Sichi-Dan (April 2024) Roku-Dan (April 2018) Sho-Dan (August 2002) Grand Champion & Top Competitor IHOF Instructor of the Year
Roku-Dan (April 2019) Sho-Dan (March 2003) IHOF Instructor of the Year Top Competitor
Go-Dan (April 2022) Sho-Dan (April 2008) Top Competitor IHOF Male Karate-ka of the Year nominee
4th Dan (April 2024) Sho-Dan (May 1993)
3rd Dan (April 2024) Ni-Dan (April 2021) Sho-Dan (April 2018) IHOF Participant
3rd Dan (April 2024) Ni-Dan (April 2021) Sho-Dan (April 2018) Top Competitor
2nd Dan April 2024) Sho-Dan (June 2020) Outstanding Gasshuku Female Karate-ka (2017 – 2018) Outstanding Senior Karate-ka (2016)
1st Dan Sho-Dan (December 2021)
Kyoshi Tony Palos
Sichi-Dan (April 2024) Roku-Dan (April 2018) Sho-Dan (August 2002) Grand Champion & Top Competitor IHOF Instructor of the Year
Certifications
- Sichi-Dan (April 2024)
- Roku-Dan (April 2018)
- Sho-Dan (August 2002)
- Grand Champion & Top Competitor
- IHOF Instructor of the Year
Biography
- Professional Jazz musician
Shihan Tina Palos
Roku-Dan (April 2019) Sho-Dan (March 2003) IHOF Instructor of the Year Top Competitor
Certifications
- Roku-Dan (April 2019)
- Sho-Dan (March 2003)
- IHOF Instructor of the Year
- Top Competitor
Biography
- Jazz musician
Renshi Michael Strickland
Go-Dan (April 2022) Sho-Dan (April 2008) Top Competitor IHOF Male Karate-ka of the Year nominee
Certifications
- Go-Dan (April 2022)
- Sho-Dan (April 2008)
- Top Competitor
- IHOF Male Karate-ka of the Year nominee
Biography
- Key staff member since 1992
- Also studied Taekwondo
Sensei Lee Stafki
4th Dan (April 2024) Sho-Dan (May 1993)
Certifications
- 4th Dan (April 2024)
- Sho-Dan (May 1993)
Biography
- Purple Heart Recipient
- US Army Veteran
- Served in Afghanistan
- Key staff member since 1987
Mr. Andrew Freeman
3rd Dan (April 2024) Ni-Dan (April 2021) Sho-Dan (April 2018) IHOF Participant
Certifications
- 3rd Dan (April 2024)
- Ni-Dan (April 2021)
- Sho-Dan (April 2018)
- IHOF Participant
Biography
- Resides in Rochester, NY
- Began training February 2010
Sensei Jared Brown
3rd Dan (April 2024) Ni-Dan (April 2021) Sho-Dan (April 2018) Top Competitor
Certifications
- 3rd Dan (April 2024)
- Ni-Dan (April 2021)
- Sho-Dan (April 2018)
- Top Competitor
Biography
- Began training May 2010
Mrs. Elizabeth Gustwick
2nd Dan April 2024) Sho-Dan (June 2020) Outstanding Gasshuku Female Karate-ka (2017 – 2018) Outstanding Senior Karate-ka (2016)
Certifications
- 2nd Dan April 2024)
- Sho-Dan (June 2020)
- Outstanding Gasshuku Female Karate-ka (2017 – 2018)
- Outstanding Senior Karate-ka (2016)
Biography
- Began training in November 2013
Mr. Jeff Feuer
1st Dan Sho-Dan (December 2021)
Certifications
- 1st Dan
- Sho-Dan (December 2021)