Meet our team

Why Choose American Tigers Karate?

At American Tigers Karate, we don’t just teach martial arts — we build champions, instill discipline, and shape future leaders. Our program is led by a proven master and lifelong martial artist:

Hanshi Armando I. Colbourne Sr.

10th Dan, Pan American Goju
Founder of American Tigers Karate Dojo

Hanshi Colbourne began his martial arts journey in 1968, studying Kyokushin Karate under Sensei Sinclair Thorne. That same year, he also began training in Sanuces Ryu Ju-Jitsu under the legendary Professor Moses Powell at the Saint John’s Recreation Center in Brooklyn, NY.

In 1969, he expanded his studies with Sensei William Louie, training in Chinese-American Goju, and by 1975, earned his black belt in USA Goju under Grandmaster Peter Urban, a direct student of Gogen Yamaguchi.

In 2022, he was awarded the rank of 10th Dan in Pan American Goju by his original teacher, Sinclair Thorne, recognizing over 50 years of unwavering dedication to the martial arts.

Hanshi Colbourne is not only a high-ranking practitioner — he is a mentor, teacher, and visionary. As the founder of American Tigers Karate, he has developed countless black belts, including:
    •    3 U.S. Martial Arts Team Members
    •    Current National Sparring Champion
    •    Current National Forms and Weapons Champion
    •    Affiliated dojos in DC, Atlanta, Marietta, Seattle, and Clermont

A devoted husband of 39 years to Madam Sensei Winnie, father of 5, and grandfather of 12, Hanshi Colbourne is a role model in and out of the dojo. His life is grounded in Christian values, and he leads by example with integrity, consistency, and compassion.

At American Tigers Karate, you’re not just learning techniques — you’re stepping into a legacy.

7th Dan Pan American Goju

Seattle and Clermont Dojo

At a defining moment in my life—opening my first karate school, beginning my own martial arts journey, raising five children, and recovering from knee surgery—Desmond Lee Diaz walked through the door. His presence quickly became the pride of our dojo. Through his leadership, skill, and unwavering dedication, he guided countless students, including my own children, toward excellence.

Today, Desmond stands as one of the most accomplished and respected karate practitioners in the world, a true testament to his discipline, talent, and heart. Desmond Lee Diaz, you are, without question, the man

5th Dan Pan American Goju

Atlanta Dojo

Zaid Abdur-Rahman,

To call him a leader would be an understatement.

He is a man of honor whose principles guide his every action. He is a role model and a source of inspiration for aspiring martial artists who seek to emulate his dedication and skill. His perfectionism is not a flaw but a beacon, inspiring not just his family and students but also his dojo brothers and sisters to reach for their own highest potential. He is a strong believer in the legacy he carries—a powerful tradition he works tirelessly to uphold and pass on, ensuring its strength and integrity for generations to come.

You’re becoming so well-known and respected, and everything I hear about you is nothing but positive. You truly embody what it means to be both a dedicated student and an inspiring teacher—someone everyone can be proud of.

I want to personally thank you—you know exactly what for—for doing the one thing I constantly ask of others, yet so few make the time for. You’ve made the time, and it speaks volumes about your commitment.

You continue to inspire me and prove, through your actions, that what we have is both valuable and worth fighting for. Your character is shining through everywhere, and people are noticing. You’re doing amazing—keep it up.