Watch these videos:  Video of WATE's "Channel 6 on Your Side Spotlight" interview with Grandmaster Willie Garfield Wilson in the Karate Five Dojo as students and staff give training and technique demonstrations. Grandmaster Wilson discusses his "Fatherhood Excellence Award" presented to him by the Beta Theta Boule' Foundation, Inc., on Father's Day, June 18, 2017 and WVLT Local 8 News Hall of Fame Karate at 5P interview video segment of Alan Williams' interview with Master Linda Wilson aired July 28, 2017.

A powerful reminder to all staff, students and Instructors before entering the Karate Five Dojo  

 "I WILL GIVE MY ALL TODAY"

For other newsworthy updates or  announcements, visit our Home and Articles Announcement pages)

2022 . . .

MAY 7, 2022 - KELLY'S HEROES OPEN CLASSIC TOURNAMENT - This has been a busy tournament year for Karate Five leadership and its tournament teams. On May 7 we made our annual pilgrimmage to Rogersville, TN to participate in Grandmaster Kelly Markham's Kelly's Heroes Open Classic Tournament held at Cherokee High School. As noted on our Home Page  Grandmaster Willie Wilson was honored this year with the Kelly's Heroes Classic 2022 Heroes Hero award. As always Grandmaster Wilson was pleased with the performance of our students in the tournament which had a great turnout. We again were overjoyed to share the tournament floor with our good friend, Grandmaster David Holcomb, Bryan College and his students.

(Above) Instructor Kenneth "Slim" Jenkins won Grand Championship Kata.



Karate Five Tournament Team

(Above L-R) Grandmaster David Holcomb, Bryan College; Grandmaster Willie Wilson, Karate Five Association and Grandmaster Kelly Markham, Kelly's Heroes Martial Arts School.

APRIL 9, 2022 - BRYAN COLLEGE MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY'S BRYAN OPEN KARATE TOURNAMENT -  Karate Five students traveled to Dayton, TN to participate in Bryan College's Academy of Martial Arts first karate martial arts tournament under the leadership of Grandmaster David Holcomb. Grandmaster Willie Wilson, leadership, staff and students received a warm welcome. We were excited to participate in the Academy's first martial arts tournament and our students competed and demonstrated their training well in the competition rings.

(Above) Grandmaster David Holcolmb and Grandmaster Willie Wilson

 Kenneth "Slim" Jenkins

 Johnny Stowers

Charlsie "CJ" Burnett

March 31, 2022 - It was a special night at the Karate Five Dojo. Grandmaster Willie G. Wilson does not give out many black belt promotions but when he does it is something special. Last night he promoted already three ranked black belts to 4th degree (Yo Dan). They were given their 4th degree certificates in front of their fellow students. Their names and pictures (shown above) are as follows: Charlsie "CJ" Burnett, Kenneth "Slim" Jenkins, and Johnny Stowers. Grandmaster Wilson has given selflessly of his wisdom and knowledge to students who desire to grow in the art. He continues as a Grandmaster to grow and share as he creates phenomenal techniques and moves. We are proud to have him as our Sensei.



2021 . . .

SEPTEMBER 7, 2021

Congratulations to our students who received promotions and leadership recognition. Great job!

Congrats to Justin Pruitt receiving his Leadership Certificate September 7, 2021

AUGUST 17, 2021

The following students all reaceived  belt promotions on August 17 and a special Happy Birthday to Grandmaster Willie Garfield Wilson!

AUGUST 17, 2021 - HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDMASTER WILSON!!

Dan Ferrer promoted to Green Belt

 Darius Lee promoted to Orange Belt

Steve Ray promoted to Green Belt

Justin Pruitt promoted to Green Belt

Jaylen Burney promoted to Green Belt

 Zaylan Strickland promoted to Orange Belt

JULY 6, 2021

CONGRATULATIONS TO MARCUS CAMPBELL!

(L-R) Marcus Campbell, Master Linda Wilson, Grandmaster Willie G. Wilson and Master Melbert Lee, Jr., is presented promotion certificate

Congratulations to Marcus Campbell who received his 3rd Degree Black Belt Certificate (San Dan) on July 6, 2021. Marcus has grown in the art at the K5 dojo and he absorbs the teachings of his Grandmaster, Willie G. Wilson. He is one of our top Instructor teachers and takes time with the lower ranked students. We are proud to have Marcus and he is an asset to the Karate Five Dojo. 

JULY 6, 2021

CONGRATULATIONS TO CJ BURNETT

 CJ Burnett - 2021 Karate Five Scholarship Recipient

Congratulations to CJ Burnett who received a $600 scholarship from Karate Five. She graduated from Pellissippi State and will begin furthering her education at the University of Tennessee. She wrote an awesome essay which was one of the requirements for the scholarship. On top of being an honor student, CJ is a top of the line 3rd degree black belt martial artist in all aspects. She is effective and precise and is an important asset to our Dojo.(To read CJ's essay, click on red "essay" link above.

A reception followed the Karate Five Program hosted by Grandmaster Willie G. Wilson and the Karate Five students. Special guests included Kathy Mack (City of Knoxville Office of Community Empowerment), Grandmaster William Mason and Delbert Morgan, National Kennel Club (a devoted long-term sponsor)

 Master Linda Wilson

Kathy Mack, Community Engagement Manager from the City's Office of Community Empowerment, attended the July 6, 2021 program and receptions at the Karate Five Dojo

 Grandmaster Wilson speaks with students before beginnging demonstration events

Instructor Johnny Stowers calls out commands and instructions to student at beginning of program demonstrations

 Grandmaster Williams Mason

 Students demonstrate sparing techniques

Grandmaster Willie Wilson demonstrates  technique with Master Melber Lee, Jr. (floor)

Delbert Morgan, National Kennel Club, Blaine, TN

Grandmaster Wilson sharing conversation with Delbert Morgan

It was a great program which allowed  students to present their skills before an audience of parents, guests and spectators and work with their Senseis during challenges and interactions.

Parents and friends donated almost all of the great homemade dishes and desserts served during the reception. Good fun and great food fellowshipping.

MAY 19, 2021 

C J Burnett, K-5 Dojo Instructor

Pellissippi Community College, Knoxville, TN Graduate - 5-19-2021

CONGRATULATIONS!

Grandmaster Willie G. Wilson, Senseis, Instructors and students celebrated a reception held May 18 for C.J. Burnett by her mother, Tracie Rodgers, for her graduation from Pellissippi State Community College, Knoxville, TN. It was an honor to celebrate CJ because she stayed in the race, didn't give up but persevered. Everyone had a great time fellowshipping and enjoying the wonderful food and treats prepared for the celebration. We all are so proud of CJ and her accomplishments. She is not stopping here but plans to further her education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Below are pictures of Karate Five's Dojo celebration. CONGRATULATIONS CJ!!!!

Even though this celebration was for CJ, notice she is hard at work assisting with the preparations.

 Students, Instructors and staff got to take a well deserved break fellowshipping and enjoying the food especially CJ's yummy Congrats Cake!

Pictures above were taken 5/18/21 in K-5 DOjo as everyone participated celebrating CJ's success.

 MARCH 2021

Vivian Underwood Shipe

Karate Five Dojo donated five (5) CD players to the Voice of the Voiceless organization run by Vivian Shipe for underprivileged children of mixed diversities. The organization is located in Knoxville, TN. 

Vivian is the voice for many--the very young, young adults aging out of the system, seniors and the mentally handicapped. She possesses a heart for those in need. Vivian is an active member of the new East Knox Lions Club and serves on the East Tennessee Eye Bank Board. She is serving her fourth year on the League of Women Voters Board and has served as a liaison to the state. On the CAC executive board she is focusing on elder abuse. After working for years to help get the behavioral health center open, she’s looking at ways to prod the state to open a similar diversion program for mentally ill offenders. 

FEBRUARY 16, 2021 - Under the leadership of Grandmaster Willie G. Wilson and the Karate Five Dojo, Master Linda Wilson and Master Melbert Lee Jr., and Instructors held a promotion February 16 for one of our students. Dan Ferrer was promoted to orange belt. He earned this rank and is an outstanding student who is committed to the art. Dan has the ability to become a great martial artist. Congratulations Dan from the Karate Five Dojo!!

2020 . . .

NOVEMBER 16, 2020 - JAYLEN BURNEY PROMOTION

Jaylen pictured above with Grandmaster Willie G. Wilson, Masters Linda Wilson and Melbert Lee, Jr.

Above Master Linda Wilson presents Jaylen with Certificate of Promotion

NOVEMBER 16, 2020 - Under the leadership and direction of Grandmaster Willie G. Wilson, Sensei Melbert Lee and Sensei Linda Wilson presented student, Jaylen Burney, with an official certificate and orange belt promotion on Monday, November 16 at the Karate Five Dojo. Jaylen excels. He's one of a kind. If he continues in the art, he is going to be a great martial artist. We are proud of you, Jaylen, and congratulate you!





2019 . . .

OCTOBER 26, 2019 - "Annual IIKA Kids Tournament" - Crossville, Tennessee. 

Karate always appreciates the family and friends who diligently support the students and make the trips to events to cheer on their successes.

 Master Melbert Lee Jr., observes IIKA tournament activities from the stands

Above Grandmaster Willie Garfield Wilson works with a student during IIKA Kids Tournament.

Click on 10-26-19 IIKA Kids Tournament to see more pictures of the event.

October 21, 2019 Orange Belt Promotions - Click here for pictures

JULY 19-20, 2019 - Karate Five attended and participated in the Annual Isshin-Ryu Hall of Fame (IHOF) Awards Banquet and Tournament events held in Gatlinburg, TN

Karate Five students, staff and instructors performed well at the 2019 Isshin-Ryu Hall of Fame Tournament Events (IHOF) and returned to the Dojo with trophies for their hard work.

For more pictures of the tournament events visit our Gallery or click here 2019 IHOF Tournament.

Grandmaster Willie Garfield Wilson and wife, Master Linda Wilson shown above during attendance at the 2019 IHOF Awards Banquet held on July 19, 2019 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. For more pictures of this special event, visit our Gallery or click here 2019 IHOF Awards Banquet Pictures

Master Melbert Lee Jr. was inducted into the 2019 Isshin-Ryu Hall of Fame. His father, Fallen Warrior Grandmaster Melbert Lee Sr. and Melbert Lee Jr., are the first father-son inductees in the history of the IHOF. Congratulations Melbert Lee Jr.!

Above Master Melbert Lee Jr. conducted a seminar, "Getting Home at Night," with fellow Instructor Master Anston Wilson on July 19 as part of the first day IHOF seminar events.

JUNE 25, 2019 - Master Anston Wilson gets a promotion.  For more details, click on Anston Wilson.

(Above) Grandmaster Maurice Msarsa presents Anston Wilson (son of Grandmaster Willie Wilson and Master Linda Wilson) with his Shichi Dan 7th Degree Black Belt



APRIL 2, 2019

April 2, 2019 - Karate Five reached a historic "milestone event" of promotions for the organization. Click here "2019 Karate Five Milestones" to read details.

APRIL 27, 2019 - Kelley's Heroes Open Tournament in Rogersville, TN - Click on event name for more pictures and details.

February 16, 2019 - Angela Gaff shared these photos taken of her son, Andrew Gaff, at the Karate Five Dojo just before Andrew left with the United States Marine. She is proud of Andrew as we are too!  Click on above date to see pictures of Andrew at the K-5 Dojo.



JULY 19, 2019 - ISSHIN-RYU HALL OF FAME (IHOF) INDUCTION OF MELBERT LEE, JR.

 MELBERT LEE, JR.

 2018 . . .



Decemer 21, 2018 - Karate Five Christmas Banquet and Awards Dinner

Click on red link above to see more pictures from Karate Five's December 21, 2018 Banquet and Awards Event



October 28, 2018 Black Belt Dojo Promotions Cake



      CJ Burnett                          Marcus Campbell

   Dwayne Troutman                 Andrew Gaff

October 28, 2018 - Black Belt Dojo Promotion and Celebration Dinner for CJ Burnette, Marcus Campbell, Dwayne Troutman and Andrew Gaff - Click here to view pictures 

OCTOBER 28, 2018 -  IIKA Kids' Tournament - Crossville, TN  -  Click here to view pictures

Grandmaster Willie Garfield Wilson and Master David Gabbard 

IIKA award recipients shown above with students and Karate Five staff members



Click on red links below for more pictures from the July 20 and 21, 2018 IHOF events:

2018 IHOF Banquet Pictures and  Finalists

2018 IHOF Tournament Pictures and K-5 Tournament Winners



2018 Isshin-Ryu Hall of Fame Banquet and Tournament events!

 July 20, 2018 - Registration Day

We congratulate our 2018 students' promotions. Click on students names below in red to view pictures of their promotion information

   Demiyan McBath            Giana Dickerson



   Jabari Kenyatta                 Jeremiah King

 Melbert Lewis Lee III          Memphis Wilson

   Sesaleigh Whitaker           Sydnei McAllister

 2017 . . .

Click on red links following arrow for more 2017 pictures and details: 

      2017 K-5 DOJO PROMOTIONS, ANNOUNCEMENTS & UPDATES

SEPTEMBER 28, 2017 - Marijane Church, Hunter Church and Richard Pfister received their green belts

AUGUST 17, 2017

A celebration of Grandmaster Willie Garfield Wilson's birthday at the K-5 Dojo! (See below)

(Above) Grandmaster Willie shown above with Grandmaster Charles Allen

Grandmaster Wilson shows the tee shirt with Master Moses Powells' image displayed given to him on his birthday

 

Above (L-R) CJ Burnett and Jon Whitehead observe Grandmaster Msarsa and Master Linda Wilson pose for a photograph with her promotion Shichi Dan (7th) Degree Black Belt certificate

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN!

As part of Karate Five's Back-to-School Program; brand new back- packs and supplies are distributed to the Karate Five students. Each student selected a backpack filled with supplies.

(Above) Grandmaster Wilson poses with an array of brightly colored backpacks in various designs.

From the youngest student to the college student, no Karate Five student is left out starting off their school year or college semester with a new backpack filled with new school supplies!



AUGUST 17, 2017 - Andrew Gaff received his "leadership certificate" and is now a part of Karate FIve's leadership team

JUNE 20, 2017 - Ty Nance promoted to orange belt; Melbert Lee III promoted to orange belt

MAY 4, 2017 - Kenneth "Slim" Jenkins' promotion to his 3rd degree black belt

APRIL 29, 2017 - Kelly's Heroes Classics tournament in Rogersville, TN - A well-run and organized tournament

APRIL 24, 2017 - Richard Pfister and Giana Dickerson's blue belt promotions

FEBRUARY 25, 2017 - Karate Five students and staff participated in the Jerry Lewis 9th Annual Cross Roads Karate Games. Congratulations Karate Five students!

(Above) Karate FIve staff, students and family pose for picture at the Jerry Lewis 9th Annual Cross Roads Karate Games

FEBRUARY 20, 2017 - Sydnei McALlister and Jeremiah King orange belt promotions

2016 . . . 

View pictures taken from Karate Five's 2016 dojo promotions, special events and tournaments by clicking on any picture below for more details

Pictured are Grandmaster Wilson in background and Instructor Anston Wilson in center

Grandmaster Willie Garfield Wilson demonstrating technique to student

Master Melbert Lee Jr., assists with training technique

July 22-23, 2016 Isshin-Ryu Hall of Fame (IHOF) Banquet and Tournament Events - Gatlinburg Convention Center

Sensei Linda Wilson was presented the "2016 Female Instructor of the Year"  award during the IHOF Awards Banquet on July 22, 2016.