Founded in 1976 by Keith D. Yates, the Southwest Tae Kwon Do Association was born out of a need for martial arts associations to maintain quality standards, and offer credible programs, for both instructors and students.   

Mr. Yates, one of the original black belts of Allen R. Steen, the "Father of Texas Karate", Formed the organization in the “early days” of martial arts in the United States.

At first, just an association of Mr. Yates' own black belts, the membership soon swelled to include martial artists from several states.  As the arts in America began to diversify, so did the association.  In 1996 the name became the American Karate and Tae Kwon Do Organization, indicating the group's widened stature.  

Standards of membership for both individuals and schools were established  and two divisions were established, one for arts of Korean background, and one for arts with a Japanese/Okinawan origin.

One thing has not changed:  The A-KaTo is still committed to the benefits of the traditions of the martial arts, while acknowledging that the arts must keep up and adapt to the ever-changing society in which we live.



As a fun activity tonight, join with others at your table to see how much you know about our organization! Use your Smartphone to Take the Quiz.