Business Details
26 Years
experience
Your Premier Martial Arts Academy in Richland, WA
Trinity Martial Arts Academy has been a cornerstone of strength, discipline, and community in Richland, Hermiston, and Yakima for over 25 years. Founded in 2000 by Mike and Sarah Franco, we specialize in traditional Okinawan Seito Karate-do, rooted in the teachings of Hanshi Kanken Toyama and passed through generations of instructors. Our mission is to empower students of all ages to develop confidence, discipline, and resilience through martial arts, fostering personal growth in a supportive, inclusive environment. With locations in Washington and Oregon, we serve thousands of students annually, offering programs from beginner white belts to advanced black belt training. Our academy emphasizes both traditional karate techniques and modern self-defense, preparing students to protect themselves and their communities. We host the annual Franco Cup tournament, a tribute to Shihan John Franco Sr., and compete nationally and internationally through our AAU-certified teams.Our instructors, including 6th-degree black belt Mike Franco, bring decades of experience and a legacy of excellence. We partner with local schools to provide martial arts education and host seminars on self-defense and related topics. As a member of the American Shudokan Association, we uphold the highest standards of martial arts instruction. Join our family to experience the Trinity difference and grow stronger together through the transformative power of karate.
Services
Karate Classes
Youth Programs
Tournament Training
Self-Defense Workshops
Homeschool Martial Arts
Black Belt Preparation
Franco Cup Tournament
Competitive Teams
Community Seminars
Weapons Training
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of authentic Okinawan karate instruction rooted in generational expertise.
- Our certified instructors include 6th-degree black belt Mike Franco with 30+ years of experience.
- We provide structured programs for all skill levels from white belts to black belt mastery.
- Our students compete successfully at national and international AAU tournaments annually.
- We maintain a legacy of excellence through partnerships with local schools and community events.
Associations and certifications
- American Shudokan Association
Services
Karate Classes
Structured karate instruction for all ages and skill levels using traditional Okinawan Seito Karate techniques. Classes focus on building physical fitness, self-defense skills, and mental discipline through progressive belt rankings. Our curriculum combines heritage practices with modern safety standards for optimal student development.
Youth Programs
Specialized martial arts training for children aged 4-12 featuring Lil Dragons classes and weapons instruction. Programs develop coordination, focus, and confidence while teaching age-appropriate self-defense techniques. Curriculum aligns with school readiness skills and character development principles.
Tournament Training
Advanced preparation for local and national karate competitions including sparring, kata, and weapons divisions. Students train with award-winning instructors who have produced multiple AAU national champions. Includes participation in the annual Franco Cup tournament honoring Shihan John Franco Sr.'s legacy.
Self-Defense Workshops
Practical self-defense instruction for teens and adults focusing on real-world scenario preparation. Courses cover situational awareness, de-escalation techniques, and physical defense strategies while emphasizing legal and ethical considerations for personal protection.
Homeschool Programs
Tailored martial arts curriculum for homeschool students combining physical education with character development. Morning classes integrate fitness training with lessons on discipline, respect, and perseverance through structured karate instruction and group activities.
People
Mike Franco
Shinan / 6th Degree Black Belt
Second-generation martial artist with 30+ years of experience, trained by his father Shihan John Franco Sr. Specializes in traditional Okinawan Seito Karate and has led TMAA since 2000. Holds leadership roles in the American Shudokan Association.
Sarah Franco
2nd Degree Black Belt
Twenty-year martial arts veteran and co-founder of TMAA. Focuses on youth development programs and community outreach initiatives. Coordinates tournament teams and maintains the academy's educational partnerships.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Traditional Okinawan Seito Karate-do, part of the Shudokan lineage from Hanshi Kanken Toyama. Our curriculum includes kata, kumite, and weapons training.
Do you offer classes for beginners?
Yes, we welcome all experience levels. White belt classes start at age 4 with specialized Lil Dragons programs for young children and beginner adult classes.
Are there competition opportunities?
We field both local and national tournament teams. Students can compete in 8-10 events annually including the Franco Cup and AAU National Championships.
What are your class schedules?
Richland location offers weekday evening classes for different belt levels. Hermiston has twice-weekly sessions. Homeschool classes occur weekday mornings in Richland.
How do I join the academy?
Visit our website to schedule a free introductory class. Contact us via email or phone to discuss membership options and current promotions.
