Our Story

The early Karate Five founders started the Karate Five Dojo with the blessings and encouragement of Master Harold Long to help fulfill his vision, "to promote and teach Isshinryu to the inner city youth of Knoxville, Tennessee."  Over the years, the "original five" founders evolved, experiencing several changing of the guards as circumstances occurred.

The Karate Five Dojo was founded in 1980 by five of Master Harold Long's "first generation lineage students" pictured above; however following his vision that he instructed us to start teaching martial arts to inner city students in 1974. 

Master Harold Long was the original guiding force and highly respected mentor of Karate Five's and its efforts to continue his legacy and vision to bring martial arts training to Knoxville's inner city youth. For over 40 years, Karate Five has honored Harold Long's memory and vision through its programs and commitment to its students. In October 2008, Karate Five honored a tribute to Master Harold Long on the 10th Anniversary of his passing.