The martial artist listed on this page have made an impact at Team K2 Karate, while they are not students of K2, their influence and contributions to the martial arts have influenced what we teach today at our school.
Jhoon Rhee, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of martial arts his contributions helped shape the trajectory of Taekwondo in the U.S. and around the world. His schools, students, and impact continue to inspire martial artists today.
His life work remains a major part of Taekwondo history, and his influence can still be seen in many Taekwondo practitioners and organizations across the world
Martial arts have evolved over centuries, shaping not just individuals but entire cultures. Among the most well-known forms are Karate and Taekwondo, two dynamic disciplines with deep histories rooted in Japan and Korea, respectively. While these arts have been practiced for generations, their international spread, and the growth of martial arts communities, owe a great deal to the tireless efforts of practitioners and instructors.
Pat Burleson received his black belt from Jhoon Rhee, the pioneering figure in bringing Taekwondo to the United States. Jhoon Rhee, often called the "Father of American Taekwondo," trained and mentored many top karate and Taekwondo instructors and competitors in the U.S., including Burleson.
Influence of Jhoon Rhee: As one of Jhoon Rhee's prominent students, Burleson not only gained a deep understanding of Taekwondo but also became involved in the competitive world of sport karate. Under Rhee's guidance, Burleson developed a style that combined elements of traditional karate, Taekwondo, and sport-based karate competition. This combination made him a strong force in the karate world.
April Cunningham is a well-known martial artist and karate instructor based in Houston, Texas. She is a prominent figure in the karate community in the region, having built a reputation as a dedicated instructor. April Cunningham is recognized for her leadership in the community and her commitment to teaching students of all ages and levels.
Wayne Nguyen is well-regarded within the Houston martial arts community, both for his skill and for his dedication. He plays a key role in training the next generation of martial artists, whether they are looking to compete or simply improve their physical fitness and self-discipline.
David Johnson, the NBL World Sport Karate Champion and instructor of K2 Karate (also referred to as Team K2 Karate) in Houston, Texas, is a respected martial artist with significant accomplishments in sport karate. He is particularly known for his expertise in competitive karate, specifically in the sport karate circuit. The NBL (National Blackbelt League) World Sport Karate Championships was a prestigious tournament where top athletes compete in various events, including kata (forms), kumite (sparring), and weapons.
As an accomplished competitor, Johnson has made a name for himself by winning titles and competing at a high level, gaining recognition in the sport karate community. In addition to his success as a competitor, Johnson is also a dedicated instructor, imparting his skills and experience to students at his school, K2 Karate.
David Johnson's contributions to the sport include not only his competitive success but also his focus on developing a strong, supportive training environment at his dojo. Team K2 Karate in Houston offers programs designed to improve students' physical fitness, self-defense skills, and overall martial arts proficiency. He emphasizes the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance that are central to martial arts practice.
