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 Pre-School kids, Teens, and Adult Tang Soo Do Lessons.

Who we Are And why You Should Train Here

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

Kwang Jang Nim Garth A. Charland

Master Garth Charland (8th Degree Black Belt) is the owner and Cheif instructor 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. Master Charland began teaching through the Parks and Rec department in 1988, opening his full time school in 1992. 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 more than 450 black belts.

Master Justyn Welsh

Promoted in June of 2023 to Master, 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 for the benefit of all of his students.

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!.

Nick Mancini

Mr Mancini has been in the martial arts for nearly 30 years. He is a 3rd degree black belt and teaches our Weapons classes as well as Advanced kids and Teen/Adult classes. A competition champion, he still competes and will attend an International Event in Aug 2025

Stephanie Poulin

3rd Degree Black Belt and the teacher of our Little Dragons Program, Mrs. Poulin is a huge asset to the Charland Institute. She also teaches beginner and Advanced Kids. She is part of a 6 member family including her husband and kids.

Ms Joanne Lafreniere

A second degree Black Belt and our Office Manager. Joanne has been with us for nearly 25years, since signing her son Joe up for lessons at age 7.

Hamid Qurbani

Mr Qurbani and his family, including his brother’s family have been members of the school for more than 15 years. He and his boys and his wife help out in classes and fill in where needed.