Over the years, the academy has grown into one of the top 100 ranked karate schools in the world. Grand Master Kaz has trained with the best martial artists in the world and provides the same education to his students. Our instructors are highly trained in karate, tae kwon do, kickboxing, and martial arts.
Sam Kas-Mikha, “Master Kaz”
Grand Master Kaz began his career in martial arts at age 10, taking different styles of Kung Fu, Tae Kwon Do, and kickboxing. By the age of 16, he won three amateur kickboxing titles. He turned to professional kickboxing at 18, defeating all opponents in his weight class and winning titles in Michigan and the Northeastern Kickboxing Championships. With no amateur experience, he began professional boxing at the age of 20 and won three professional fights at the Palace. Undefeated in professional kickboxing after 40 fights and 160 exhibition bouts, Grand Master Kaz established Family Karate in 1990. He also trained in Kenpo Ninja, Aikido and Judo. Grand Master Kaz obtains a 10th degree black belt, Master in Tae Kwon Do, 2nd degree black belt in Aikido and Kenpo, and 1st degree black belt in Jujitsu and Judo.
He is the youngest Grand Master in the world with a 10th degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Master Kaz was also selected as instructor of the year in 2015.
Assistant Instructors
ROBERT CHANG “MASTER CHANG”
Master Chang started karate under the instruction of Master Kaz at the age of 16. Master Chang currently holds his 5th degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Chang has been instructing alongside Master Kaz for over 30 years and has had 20 exhibition kickboxing bouts in his career.
ERWIN CORONEL “MASTER CORONEL”
Master Coronel started karate under the instruction of Master Kaz at the age of 11. Master Coronel currently holds his 4th degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Coronel has been instructing alongside Master Kaz for over 30 years and has had 20 exhibition kickboxing bouts in his career.
Testimonials
“Our family loves it here! Family Karate exceeds my expectations, which are extremely high when it comes to my children. Sam makes each child feel special and loved, and he gives them confidence, discipline, strength and courage. He gives individual attention to every detail and is always available to help guide my kids through any problem. Sam makes you feel like part of his own family. We all adore him!”
Karen Talan
Parent
“I have tried other schools and fitness kickboxing classes and none even compare to Family Karate! The owner is an 8 time world champion and teaches all the classes himself. What separates them from the rest, is Sam understands his clients level and works them accordingly. He is also very motivational, and it’s pretty impressive that he remembers everyone’s name after just one class. As far as the instruction goes, it’s the best around. Most schools teach the basics and point fighting which doesn’t always transfer to real life. Sam teaches the fundamentals and how to apply it to real life situations.”
Michigan Revolution
Parent
“I have 2 boys enrolled here. Master Kaz is the most patient, caring, and involved instructor. He is has been such a great influence and role model in my boys life. The atmosphere is amazing and very welcoming and you feel like family from day one. I highly recommend this place to anyone from a young child, teenager, or an adult. You will see a transformation in your child’s confidence and self-esteem in no time!”
Lena Essak
Parent