The Charland Institute of Karate proudly serving Greater Watertown Area since 1988

The Charland Institute of Karate has Classes in Greater Watertown Area, 

Perfect for Kids, Teens, and Adults Martial Arts Lessons.

Who we Are And why You Should Train Here

About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Since we’ve opened in March of 1992 (previous 4 years Master Charland taught via Parks & Rec), we’ve been dedicated to changing the lives of people one person at a time, through martial arts, education and coaching. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and welcoming atmosphere for all students and family members. We take pride in creating an environment for individuals to achieve, develop and succeed in their personal goals.

We strongly believe that Tang Soo Do can be for everyone, regardless of age, gender or experience levels. Throughout all of our programs, students will not only learn the necessary skill sets to protect themselves, we stand behind our realistic and practical approach, confident it will enable every member to achieve greatness and live their best life..

And Finally, our Staff of Instructors are second to none. This highly dedicated group of white belts who never did quit are here because they love the beautiful art of Tang Soo Do. They love to share their knowledge, their passion and their values with students of all ages and backgrounds. 

Get To Know Our World Class Instructors

About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Kwang Jang Nim Garth A. Charland

Master Garth Charland (8th Degree Black Belt) is the owner and CEO of The Charland Institute. He began his Martial Arts Career in 1983, changing styles to Tang Soo Do in 1986. He competed in countless tournaments, mostly in the New England area earning many titles in Sparring, Kata and Board Breaking. He was part of a United States Team touring Poland and Russia in 1990 competing in two tournaments there and doing demonstrations. Later he went on to England, Greece and even Korea in his World Travels. Today he trains with Kwang Jang Nim David Sgro and is his highest ranking student. Master Charland is the Kwang Jang (Grandmaster) of the Tang Soo Do Masters Alliance which spans from New England to Tennessee and has 11 member schools and nearly 450 black belts.

About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Master Justyn Welsh

Recently Promoted in June of 2023, Master Welsh has been a student here for 15+ years! He graduated UCONN with an Engineering degree. He trains regularly and teaches here every week and gives of his time and knowledge. 

About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Matthew DeLuca

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About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Joseph Lafreniere

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About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Tim Brandt

Mr Brandt is a music teacher by day, and an awesome Tang Soo Do teacher by night, plus a great dad. He somehow finds time to coach his children’s sports teams. Just a super example setter!.

About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Stephanie Poulin

Hello

About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Joanne Lafreniere

Joanne has been our office manager for nearly 20 of our 3o years! She is our karate Den Mother whom everybody just loves and she occasionally teaches or assists with a class!

About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Mark Newberry

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About Us | The Charland Institute of Karate

Tom Galasso

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