Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Martial Arts Training Center in Corona de Tucson
AKKA Karate was founded in 1972 by Grand Master Bill Packer, a 10th degree Black Belt in Kenpo. Our Houghton Road school is led by Mrs. Thibault, a 5th degree Black Belt with 26 years of experience, 14 of which were directly under Master Packer. We uphold the traditional values, self-defense principles, and organizational integrity that define the AKKA system. Our programs emphasize personal growth, discipline, and practical self-defense techniques tailored to students of all ages. With structured classes for children and adults, we foster respect, confidence, and physical fitness through martial arts training.Our instructors combine decades of expertise with competitive experience in kickboxing and MMA to deliver high-quality instruction. We are committed to preserving the legacy of Kenpo while adapting to modern self-defense needs. Our curriculum includes hand-to-hand techniques, weapons training, and anti-bullying strategies designed to empower students. Private lessons are available for those with unique scheduling needs. Our mission is to provide transformative martial arts education rooted in tradition and excellence.
Services
Martial Arts Classes
Kickboxing
Self-Defense Training
Youth Programs
Private Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We offer 26 years of expertise in the AKKA Kenpo system under Grand Master Bill Packer.
- Our instructors have competitive experience in kickboxing and MMA.
- Structured programs for children and adults emphasize practical self-defense skills.
- Private lessons available for personalized training schedules.
- Commitment to preserving traditional Kenpo values while adapting to modern needs.
What people say
Experienced instructors
Structured programs
Focus on discipline
Family-friendly environment
Effective self-defense training
Services
Martial Arts Classes
Our martial arts classes teach American Kenpo techniques for self-defense, fitness, and personal growth. Students learn striking, joint locks, and forms while building discipline and confidence. Programs cater to all ages and skill levels.
Kickboxing
Full-contact kickboxing classes combine competitive drills with self-defense applications. Training includes striking combinations, footwork, and conditioning to improve strength and endurance while developing practical combat skills.
Youth Programs
Structured youth programs focus on balance, coordination, and character development for ages 4-12. Curriculum includes anti-bullying strategies, respect training, and foundational Kenpo techniques adapted for young learners.
Self-Defense Training
Practical self-defense courses teach real-world techniques for conflict avoidance and physical defense. Training emphasizes situational awareness, de-escalation tactics, and efficient counterattacks tailored to individual needs.
Private Lessons
Customized private lessons offer flexible scheduling and personalized instruction. Students receive focused attention on specific techniques, competition preparation, or accelerated skill development in a dedicated training environment.
People
Katrina Thibault
Head Instructor, Owner
5th degree black belt with 26 years of AKKA Kenpo experience, including 14 years under Grand Master Bill Packer. Specializes in kickboxing, MMA, and weapons training while upholding traditional martial arts values.
Wayne Thibault
Head Instructor, Owner
2nd degree black belt with 27 years of law enforcement experience. Combines martial arts expertise in Kenpo, MMA, and weapons training with real-world safety applications for practical defense instruction.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in American Kenpo Karate, kickboxing, and self-defense techniques developed by Grand Master Bill Packer.
Are classes available for children?
Yes, we offer Lil Dragons programs for ages 4-6 and Junior programs for older youth with age-appropriate curricula.
Do you offer private martial arts lessons?
Private lessons are available for students seeking personalized training schedules or focused skill development.
What are your instructors' qualifications?
Our head instructors hold 5th and 2nd degree black belts with decades of experience under Grand Master Bill Packer and in law enforcement applications.
Can adults join martial arts classes?
Yes, our adult programs cater to all experience levels with Kenpo techniques, fitness training, and self-defense applications.
