In the realm of martial arts, the term "White Tiger" evokes a sense of mystique and power. Originating from the roots of Kung Fu, White Tiger Martial Arts is more than just a style; it's a living legacy that carries centuries of wisdom and discipline. White Tiger Martial Arts isn't just a style; it's a tapestry of tradition, techniques, and inner essence. The term "White Tiger" resonates with power, courage, and a legacy that extends far beyond the dojo.
Central to White Tiger Martial Arts are the techniques that embody its essence. Fluid movements, intricate forms, and a strategic approach create a seamless blend of offense and defense. Yet, White Tiger Martial Arts isn't solely about physical prowess. At its core lies a philosophy that emphasizes self-improvement, humility, and the cultivation of inner strength.
Tracing the journey of White Tiger Martial Arts unveils a tapestry of history and evolution. Rooted in ancient practices, it has evolved to encompass a wide range of techniques, forms, and philosophies. Today, White Tiger Martial Arts stands as a bridge between tradition and contemporary spirit. It's a testament to the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in a rapidly changing world.
The White Tiger Kenpo System
The White Tiger Kenpo System started in 1984 as most other schools do, in a garage. As things progressed, the students grew, which created a need for more space, so Tom Saviano started teaching three days a week sharing a school with his instructor, Grand Master John McSweeney. Times change and the popularity of Tom Saviano's system grew, as did the student base. The need to move on had come again and we moved to our current location back in 1994.
Tom Saviano received his Kenpo instruction from Grand Master John McSweeney, one of Senior Grand Master Ed Parker's earlier Black Belts. John McSweeney's form of Kenpo is a system based on Ed Parker's Kenpo of the 50's and 60's, the Chinese styles which he had opportunity to study, and his background in Judo and other forms of Martial Arts. These days, there are many forms of Kenpo stemming from Ed Parker's teachings as well as those stemming from his instructor, Professor William Chow. All have different philosophies, approaches, and teaching methods.
Read also: Reunited after 23 years: Carlina White
Kenpo is best described as a logical and practical approach to self-defense. It is neither hard nor soft, but a well balanced system of both. Kenpo is fluid with continuous and rapid motion, graceful yet extremely devastating.
Internationally known, Sr. Mr. Saviano also holds a 10th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo and a 6th Degree Black Belt in Chinese Kang-Chuan-Do. Tom Saviano began his martial arts training in March of 1964, in the art of Goju Shorei in Chicago, Illinois. Mr. Saviano is a martial arts instructor, and is certified as an official tournament judge and referee. He has over 6 decades of experience in self-defense. Saviano’s White Tiger Kenpo Karate System is for the serious martial artist and Sr. Mr.
The Three Arts: Self Defense or Sport
We teach American Kenpo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA, A under Grandmaster Larry Tatum 10th degree black belt, his system of self defense. One of the most prominent and recognized martial artists in the world. Self-defense oriented schools are not limited by the rules of sport martial arts and that gives them a critical edge because they are used to eye gouges and groin kicks being thrown.
Along the years, Carol has taught over thousands students, granting them the gift of self confidence and perseverance. Some of these exceptional students, such as Gina Carano, Caitlin Dechelle, and Carlos Saborio have moved on to Olympic competition, stunt work, and MMA Championship.
Head Master’s Say:US White Tiger Martial Arts School is a top destination for those who want to train hard and become more disciplined.
Read also: Fixing Boxing with Zuffa
Programs Offered
Tiger Pack (Preschool & Kindergarten)
Our Tiger Pack program has been developed for preschool, kindergarten and first grade children ages 4 to 6. This program offers essential character qualities such as courtesy, respect, and discipline. In addition, to improving children's motor skills and enhancing their ability to pay attention and follow directions. All classes are taught using the most safe, fun, and exciting instruction methods available for this age group.
Youth TaeKwonDo
Children ages 6- 13 learn discipline, respect, self-confidence, & self-esteem. TaeKwonDo helps develop concentration so students can stay on task longer. Children learn self-defense for protection against abduction and bullying of other children. Many activities such as camps, sleep overs, tournaments, picnics, and movie nights give kids a healthy safe social outlet. Physical benefits include balance, coordination, and endurance. Our philosophy is that when your child leaves the White Tiger they should not just know TaeKwonDo; they should have become a better person. Program allows full Black Belt certification (if all requirements are met) through the World TaeKwonDo Union.
Adult TaeKwonDo
Adult TaeKwonDo - A complete TaeKwonDo program for adults offering a total Martial Arts education in a traditional setting. The White Tiger program emphasizes self defense, history, philosophy, and an understanding of the sport. Physical benefits include; more endurance, improved strength, balance, improved cardiovascular health, loss of weight and relief of stress. Program allows full Black Belt certification (if all requirements are met) through the World TaeKwonDo Union.
We opened White Tiger in 2006 with a dream of building and teaching a community of Taekwondo enthusiasts who would learn to love Taekwondo as much as we do. Grand Master Yoo, 7th Degree Black Belt, was professionally trained and educated at the prestigious Yong-In University in Seoul, South Korea; with a Bachelor Degree in Sport Science with an emphasis in Taekwondo. He is a certified coach and Physical Education teacher.
Taekwondo has an International headquarters which is Kukkiwon. Students must be certified by Kukkiwon to become a Black Belt. The Olympic Committee has named tae kwon do spars, an official sport for the Sydney, Athens, Beijing 2008, and 2012 London Olympics. Today, the art of Taekwondo has become an international sport that has gained popularity, gaining recognition as one of the disciplines in the Olympic Games.
Read also: A Look at Wrestling Masks
In Korean culture, it has been told that when a White Tiger appears, powerful people become humble and rich people become generous. Taekwondo is not only a physical activity and method of self-defense; it becomes a way of life built solidly around core tenants of respect, courtesy and perseverance.
Sport Karate
Japanese Shotokan Karate is a strong program geared toward self-defense and practical applications. A very physical course, emphasizing tradition and technique. The class is for adults only or those with prior martial arts experience.
Kenjutsu
Kenjutsu teaches mastery of the samurai sword for combat and including techniques and strategies for different combat situations. The White Tiger Kenjutsu program uses both nylon and safety weapons to teach technique and full contact combat. Kenjutsu students strive to make the sword an extension of the body with great power.
Important Information for Students
Yes! Students should attend two curriculum classes each week. If a student misses any classes, they may make them up by attending an extra weekly curriculum class. Please see the class schedule to see which classes are appropriate for your rank level. Students must make up missed classes within one month of missing. If you are unsure which class is best for you please see Master or Mrs.
Students are expected to arrive on time, please check the Class Schedule Page. Students should not arrive more than 10 minutes prior to their class. We do not have supervision for Students who are not in class. Any student later than 10 minutes for the start of class will not be permitted to attend but may watch. Students must be picked up no later than 10 minutes after the completion of their class and the parent must come in and get them.
Please refer to your signed copy of your Membership Agreement provided at enrollment for your specific program term, tuition rate, renewal date, and method of payment. We do not offer refunds on programs purchased. We do not offer pro-rations for tuition for classes missed. We do not offer refunds on tuition already paid.
White Tiger Martial Arts is closed for all National Holidays and Halloween. We are closed for Winter Break - last two weeks of December through Jan 2, 1 week for Spring Break and 1 week in August. Please see our Calendar Page for closures. Tuition is not subject to adjustment for closures.
A student may be excused from being a student from White Tiger Martial Arts at any time at Master Yoo’s discretion. Payment of the absent month(s) will be made as usual. However, a credit for the time missed will be applied to the end of the program term.
Picking the right program can be overwhelming.
| Program | Age Group | Focus | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiger Pack | 4-6 years | Character development, motor skills | Courtesy, respect, discipline, improved attention |
| Youth TaeKwonDo | 6-13 years | Self-defense, discipline | Self-confidence, concentration, physical fitness |
| Adult TaeKwonDo | Adults | Traditional martial arts education | Endurance, strength, balance, stress relief |
| Sport Karate | Adults (or prior experience) | Self-defense, practical applications | Physical fitness, tradition, technique |
| Kenjutsu | All ages | Mastery of the samurai sword | Technique, combat strategies, body extension |