30 Years of Growth, Expansion, and Key Events
By Cristian Nelson
Part 3 of our 30th Anniversary series is dedicated to the people—the extraordinary team that has made our success possible.
For three decades, National Karate Schools of Illinois has shaped the lives of thousands, instilling discipline, confidence, and excellence in martial arts training. From its humble beginnings in Roselle to its continued expansion and impact, National Karate has remained committed to its mission of empowering students of all ages. It takes a team to build something great, and we’ve been blessed with a community of talented, passionate, and selfless individuals. From our earliest employees to the newest team members, this celebration belongs to them. Their commitment, creativity, and care have carried us through every season, and Part 3 is a tribute to their legacy.
1995 – Roselle Opens
The first National Karate School in Illinois opens in Roselle, IL, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving martial arts community.
1995 – John Mazzola Begins Training
First Chicago National Karate Student – John Mazzola (front right)
John Mazzola becomes the first student to enroll at National Karate of Illinois, marking the beginning of an inspiring journey.
1995 – Pam Thomas Begins Training
From Left to Right: Ms. Nelson, Mr. Worley, Ms. Porcello & Ms. Thomas
Ms. Pam Thomas join Mr. Mazzola in the first class at the new Roselle National Karate school. She goes on to become a 5th Degree Black Belt and a beloved instructor. In 2013, we were heartbroken by her unexpected passing. Pam made a lasting impact and is deeply missed.
1996 – John Mazzola Becomes First Employee
A year after starting as a student, John Mazzola joins the staff, beginning a lifelong dedication to National Karate. Today, he co-owns the Aurora and Naperville schools and is testing for 7th Degree Black Belt on the 30th Anniversary Exam!
1997 – First Black Belt Exam in Chicago
The first Chicago NK Black Belt exam actually wasn’t for the students (That would happen in November of 1997) The first Black Belt exam was for Mr. Nelson to test for his 4th Degree Black Belt! Master Worley came to conduct the exam that was held at Trinity Lutheran Gymnasium in Roselle, IL. The advanced students from the Roselle / Elk Grove were also on the exam testing for their Brown with 2 Black Stripes. Click here to watch the video of that exam.
1997 – First Student Black Belt Exam
In November, John Mazzola and a group of dedicated students become the first to earn their Black Belts at National Karate of Illinois.
1997 – Bartlett School Opens
National Karate expands to Bartlett
1997 – Ms. Jenn Tohtz becomes the First Bartlett National Karate Student
Ms. Tohtz was the very first student at Bartlett National Karate and went on to become an instructor, Competition Team Coach, and world champion competitor. She also managed several National Karate satellite programs, including the Wheaton Sport Center and Kinder Kare, where she taught nearly 100 students. Today, she is a respected 6th Degree Black Belt and continues to inspire the next generation of martial artists.
1997 – Ms. Rita Langley Joins National Karate
In the first few months of the Bartlett school opening, Ms. Rita Langley begins her training. She earns her 6th Degree Black Belt and goes on to serve as Director of both the Bloomingdale and Bartlett schools. In 2023, she tragically loses her battle with cancer. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of everyone she inspired.
1997 – Mr. JR Hutson Joins National Karate
Mr. JR Hutson joins the Elk Grove location. He later becomes the Competition Team Coach, Manager of the Lifetime Fitness satellite program, South Elgin Instructor and Tournament Director, making significant contributions to the growth of National Karate. He is a 6th Degree Black Belt.
1998 – Mr. Doniparthi starts his training
Mr. Gopi Doniparthi joins the Elk Grove location, later becoming Director of the Bloomingdale school. His leadership eventually expands National Karate into Wisconsin, further growing our impact. He is a 6th Degree Black Belt.
2000 – Michael Drescher starts his training
Michael Drescher starts his karate training at the Bartlett school at the age of 4 under Mr. Nelson. Click Here to watch Mr. Drescher as a White Belt. He later goes on to be a successful sport karate competitor, the Director of the South Elgin school, Competition Team Coach, Tournament Director, and Director of the Chicago NK events! He is a 6th Degree Black Belt.
2000 – Bloomingdale School Opens
The third Illinois location opens and its first students are Pam Neil (and her grand daughter Morgan), Kishon Soni & Cardal Price.
2000 – Pam Neil starts training
Pam Neal holds the all time record for the oldest 5th Degree at 84 years young!
Pam Neal goes on to be an instructor and holds the record for the oldest National Karate student in all states to accomplish the amazing feat of earning her 5th Degree Black Belt at the age of 84 years young!
2000 – Cardal Price starts training
Mr. Price and his sons become successful sport karate competitors and Mr. Price goes on to be the head instructor at the National Karate satelite program at Wheaton Sport Center and the Chicago NK Competition Coach. His son Mr. Carson Price becomes a beloved instructor at the Aurora location before going into a career in the military.
2001 – Launch of National Karate at Life Time Fitness
In 2001, National Karate partnered with Life Time Fitness to launch martial arts programs at the Bloomingdale, Schaumburg, and Algonquin locations Lifetime Fitness locations. Led by JR and RC Hutson, the program quickly grew in popularity.
The Lifetime Instructors: From Left to Right, JR & RC Hutson, Jane & Jeff Siegrist, the Gilchrists, the Bolsters, Diana Alba and Alexis Hutson.
2001 – Jeff and Jane Siegrist start their training
Jeff and Jane Siegrist begin training at the Lifetime Fitness National Karate program. They go on to become accomplished instructors and coordinators of the Chicago Black Belt Exams. Today, they continue to teach at the Bartlett school and are 6th Degree Black Belts.
2003 – South Elgin School Opens
The fourth Illinois location launches in South Elgin!
2003 – First South Elgin Students
The first students at the South Elgin School. Left side – front to back, Jonathan Oie, Maddie Drescher, unknown, Michael Drescher, Mandie Oie. Right side – front to rear, Thomas Nelson, Hannah Nelson, Mr. Nelson, Alexis Hutson.
Mr. Reggie Wilkins and his son Phillip start their training in 2003 and are among the first students at the new South Elgin location. Mr. Wilkins is now a 5th Degree Black Belt and is considered the NK iron man because he is an instructor at the South Elgin school, manager of the South Elgin Park District National Karate Satellite program, office manager and instructor at the Elk Grove / Roselle school and also teaches at the Bartlett school! Wow!
2004 – Ms. Oie Joins South Elgin
Longtime National Karate instructor and office manager Ms. Oie begins her training at the SE location. She puts herself through college while working at National Karate in Aurora and South Elgin. Today, she’s a school teacher in South Elgin but continues to work at National Karate a couple of days a week simply for the love of it. She is a 5th Degree Black Belt.
2004 – Youngest Black Belt Promotion
Michael Drescher becomes the youngest National Karate student to earn a 1st Degree Black Belt at age 8. Pictured here with Mr. Nelson and the late great Master Kenny Eubanks who sat on the Black Belt panel that day.
2005 – Mr. Brian and Mrs. Gail Fieri Join National Karate
Mr. Brian Fieri and his wife Gayle begin their journey at the Bloomingdale location. Mr. Fieri, now a 5th Degree Black Belt, currently serves as an instructor at the Elk Grove school, continuing to share his passion and expertise with students.
2006 – Tony Roller Joins National Karate
Tony Roller starts in 2006 and goes on to be and instructor at the South Elgin school and Head Instructor of the Elk Grove/ Roselle school. Then after serving in the military he comes back to be the Director of the Bartlett National Karate School.
2006 – First Karate Camp
Karate camps launch, offering students an exciting way to train and grow their skills and build relationships each summer.
2007 – The Dynamic Duo Joins
Jim Steele and Rob Taluc join the South Elgin school under the instruction of Master Nelson and become star students and instructors, known for their outstanding preparation of South Elgin students for Black Belt through their rigorous Candidate Class. Mr. Steele is a 5th Degree and Mr. Taluc is a 4th Degree Black Belt.
2008 – Mr. Logan Harbaugh starts training
Mr. Logan Harbaugh begins training at National Karate. He goes on to become an instructor and has taught at both the South Elgin and Elk Grove schools. He also managed the martial arts program at the Heritage Homeschool Co-op, sharing his passion and expertise with even more students. He is a 4th Degree Black Belt.
2008 – National Karate Expands to Wisconsin
Illinois National Karate Director Mr. Gopi Doniparthi brings National Karate to Wisconsin with the help and blessing of Mr. Nelson, National Karate expands to its 3rd state. Mr. D later passes the torch to long time National Karate Chicago Instructor Kishon Soni. Both are pictured below…
The Wisconsin Staff Team: Mr. Soni, Ms. Schmitz, Mr. Doniparthi, Ms. Walter & Mr. Kenny
2008 – Mrs. Cathy Drescher Joins the Team
Mrs. Cathy Drescher begins her journey with National Karate as the Office Manager at the South Elgin location. Known for her dedication and warmth, she has remained a valued member of our team ever since. Today, she continues to serve faithfully at SE while also taking on the role of Executive Administrator to Mr. Nelson.
2010 – First Toy Drive with Cal’s Angels
National Karate partners with Cal’s Angels with a commitment to hold an annual toy drive. To date, National Karate families have donated over 10,000 toys to support children with pediatric cancer.
2010 – Sonny Manaloto begins his Training
Sonny Manaloto starts his training at the Bartlett school in 2010 and goes on to be a successful sport karate competitor in both sparring and form. He is now a 4th Degree Black Belt and the Head Instructor at the Elk Grove / Roselle School.
2011 – International Outreach in Haiti
JR and Alexis Hutson take National Karate abroad, teaching martial arts to orphans in Haiti.
2012 – Aurora School Opens
The fifth Illinois location launches in the Chicago suburbs.
2012 – Kyle Kalka Joins as Aurora’s First Student!
Kyle Kalka becomes the very first student at the new Aurora National Karate school, beginning his journey at just 3.5 years old. He eventually earns his 3rd Degree Black Belt and becomes an instructor at the very same school—coming full circle to teach in the class where he once trained as a young student.
2014 – Carlos Lopez Begins His Martial Arts Journey
Mr. Carlos Lopez begins his training at the Aurora school. Demonstrating dedication and leadership, he rises through the ranks to become an instructor and 3rd Degree Black Belt and now serves as the Co-Director of the Aurora National Karate School.
2019 – Ms. Rachel Choice begins her training
Rachel Choice starts her training in 2019 at the Aurora school and becomes an instructor and is now the Co-Director of the Naperville National Karate School.
2012 – 1,000 Chicago Black Belts Milestone!
National Karate of Chicago reaches the incredible achievement of promoting 1,000 students to Black Belt!
2012 – Voted Best Martial Arts School for First Time!
National Karate earns the title of Best Martial Arts School in the Chicago suburbs, an honor it has continued to hold for 14 consecutive years.
2012 – Azaan Qureshi Starts Karate
Mr. Qureshi is now a 2nd Degree Black Belt and serves as an instructor at the Elk Grove / Roselle National Karate.
2013 – National Karate Minnesota’s 40th Anniversary
Grand Masters Carnahan & Worley lead a mass karate class in celebration of National Karate Minnesota’s 40th Anniversary.
Illinois staff travel to Minnesota to celebrate the organization’s 40th anniversary with Grand Masters Worley and Carnahan. You can see Mr. Mazzola in the first row and Mr. Drescher in the second row.
2014 – Visit from J. Pat Burleson
10th Degree Black Belt, Martial arts legend and “Father of All Karate Champions”, J. Pat Burleson visits National Karate, inspiring students and instructors alike.
2014 – Lilly Piskule Begins Training
Lilly Piskule begins training at National Karate. She becomes a 3rd Degree Black Belt and now serves as an instructor and office staff member at the Bartlett location.
2014 – Hayden Salgado Begins Training
Hayden Salgado begins training when she is 4 years old and goes on to be an instructor at the Bartlett National Karate School. She is now a 2nd Degree Black Belt and will be testing for 3rd Degree at the 30th Anniversary Celebration Black Belt Exam, on June 14, 2025!
2015 – 2017 Karate in Romania.
Mr. Nelson goes international to Romania for a mission trip and has the honor of teaching National Karate internationally. The students invite him to come again and he goes back to Romania to teach 3 years in a row. In the the fourth year (2018), he goes to back to attend a wedding for two of his Romanian karate students (and now friends).
2015 – National Karate Chicago Celebrates 20 Years!
10th Degree Grand Master Worley leads mass karate classes in honor of National Karate Chicago’s 20th anniversary.
2015 – Chelsea Cabase Starts Training
Ms. Cabase is now a 3rd Degree Black Belt, an excellent competitor, and instructs at the Naperville National Karate School.
2016 – Krav Maga Certification
Instructors complete Krav Maga certification, enhancing self-defense training for students. Since then the staff has continued to train and teach and have earned Expert Level Instructor status.
2017 – Youngest 4th Degree Black Belt
Michael Drescher earns his 4th Degree Black Belt at age 17, becoming the youngest to achieve this rank and the coveted black uniform.
2017 – Oldest & Youngest 4th Degree Black Belts
Making National Karate history, Michael Drescher becoming the youngest, and Pam Neal becoming the oldest students to earn the coveted Black uniform. This picture highlights their unique accomplishments and friendship as the youngest and oldest 4th Degree Black Belts.
Mr. Drescher is now a 6th Degree Black Belt and Ms. Neal is now a 5th Degree Black Belt.
2018 – Bartlett School Expands
Bartlett National Karate Main Classroom
The Bartlett location relocates within the same mall, doubling in size to accommodate its growing student base.
2018 – Gabby Adewuyi Begins Training
Gabby Adewuyi begins her training and becomes a 2nd Degree Black Belt. She now serves as an instructor at the Elk Grove / Roselle National Karate.
2019 – Master Mazzola teaches in Romania
John Mazzola follows in Mr. Nelson’s footsteps by teaching National Karate internationally in Romania.
2020 – Mr. Nelson Promoted to 8th Degree Black Belt
National Karate presently has 14,000 Black Belts in 5 states and Mr. Nelson has become the third-highest ranking Black Belt in the organization. Pictured here with Grand Master John Worley and his wife Kelly Nelson a 3rd Degree Black Belt.
2020 – Navigating the Pandemic
2020 (March) – Pandemic – This one isn’t really a highlight but the ingenuity and indomitable spirit of the National Karate team did an amazing job of navigating the uncharted waters of a world pandemic. Literally over the weekend, Michael Drescher and Mr. Nelson invent a system to produce an at home training program via youtube videos, Google drive lesson plans, and then Online Zoom Classes to allow students to train at home while the state of Illinois was in mandatory lockdown.
2020 (July) – Outdoor Black Belt Exam
In an effort to abide by the state regulations against large gatherings, National Karate of Chicago conducts its Black Belt Exam outdoors in the back lawn of the Bartlett National Karate School. We were blessed with beautiful weather for this important day and the students and staff were thrilled to be there.
2020 – 2021 Quarantine Games –
The state mandates forbidding gatherings in large groups and gymnasiums made it impossible to host our very popular Intramural Karate Tournaments. So, we launched the “Quarantine Games” that were held in small groups at each of our locations. Some of the divisions were even held outdoors. Families were thrilled to have something fun to do and give their kids some sense of normalcy.
2023 – South Elgin 20th Anniversary
South Elgin celebrates 20 years with a grand event featuring food trucks, games, and hundreds of attendees.
2023 – Runner-Up Business of the Year
South Elgin National Karate earns recognition from the South Elgin Economic Development department (Chamber of Commerce). Mr. Nelson & Mr. Drescher accept the award together.
2023 – National Karate Minnesota’s 50th Anniversary
Illinois staff and students travel to Minnesota to celebrate the organization’s legacy.
2024 – Naperville School Opens
National Karate expands once again, with John Mazzola and Mr. Nelson opening the Naperville location.
2025 – 2,000 Chicago Black Belts Milestone!
National Karate of Chicago reaches an astonishing 2,000 Black Belt promotions!
2025 – Celebrating 30 Years!
The organization marks three decades of martial arts excellence, community involvement, and student success.
2025 – Current Staff
As of our 30th anniversary, our dedicated team includes over 50 team members across five Illinois locations and 5 satellite locations. Our team includes school Directors, Instructors, Assistant Instructors, Administrators, and volunteer leaders who faithfully serve our students each week. Their passion, professionalism, and character carry forward the legacy of National Karate into a new generation. Here are some of the main teams!
Aurora Team: Mr. Forynski, Ms. Lopez, Mr. Slates, Mr. Kalka & Mr. Lopez front
Aurora Team 2: Ms. A Hofmann, Ms. P. Hoffmann, Mr. Slates, Mr. Kalka, Ms. Lopez, Mr. Gadre, Ms. C Villagomez, Ms. E. Villagomez
Bartlett Team: Ms. Salgado, Ms. K. Piskule, Mr. Roller, Ms. L. Piskule & Ms. Baldwin
Elk Grove Team: Mr. Wilkins, Mr. Qureshi, & Mr. Manaloto
Elk Grove Team 2: Mr. Deb, Caden, Ms. Adewuyi & Mr Rasheed
Naperville Team: Ms. Choice, Mr. Mazzola & Ms. Cabase
South Elgin Team: Mr. Powers, Mr. Rushing, Mr. Rojas, Ms. Oie, Mr. Drescher, Mr. Vinson, Mr. Rosales, Mr. Sheridan
South Elgin Team 2: Olivia Cesario, Charlotte Elliff, Samahi Shah
A Note of Thanks
Testing for 5th Degree: Ms. Tohtz, Mr. Flight, Mr. Kook, Mr. & Mrs. Siegrist
As we look back, we also want to acknowledge two former instructors, Lance Flight and Dustin Kook, who are pictured above and played important roles in our early growth. While our paths have since diverged, we remain grateful for their contributions during their time with National Karate.
2025 – Special 30th Anniversary Greeting from Cobra Kai’s Martin Kove
The iconic John Kreese from The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai sends a message in honor of National Karate’s 30th anniversary. Click Here to Watch the Video!
30th Anniversary Celebration Black Belt Exam
We kicked off our 30th Anniversary with a historic Black Belt Exam, where 85 students tested for Black Belt and higher degrees—including our very first student testing for 7th Degree Black Belt Master John Mazzola). Master Nelson honored the entire instructional team, presenting awards to 50 current instructors ranging from first-year teachers to those with 29 years of service.
30th Anniversary Celebration Carnival
After the exam, we hosted an unforgettable celebration carnival attended by over 1,000 students and families. The festivities included more than 15 inflatable attractions, dozens of carnival games, face painting, food trucks, classic carnival snacks, and a raffle with over 100 prizes valued at more than $8,000. What an incredible way to celebrate our 30th anniversary! It was a day filled with fun, laughter, and community spirit. Most importantly, we celebrated the bonds we’ve built throughout the years—with our outstanding staff and wonderful students.
As we reflect on our past and look toward the future, National Karate remains dedicated to developing strong, confident martial artists. Here’s to the next 30 years of excellence!
