TESTIMONIALS Welcome to our testimonial page. The posted testimonials are voluntary reviews, reliable ratings, and generous words and thoughts from the many satisfied customers of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate. We pride ourselves on the warm and approachable feel of our Karate Association and welcome the thoughts of our students - children, teens and adults - and their families.
Click here to ENTER: ( “Our Karate Today home page.” )Welcome.htmlWelcome.htmlshapeimage_2_link_0
 
The FKKA Comes Highly Recommended! By: Ben A. May 15, 2025 I have been a student of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate since 2014. In that time, I have reached the rank of 3rd Degree Black Belt and am one of the instructors at the dojo. It has been my honor and pleasure to have been a part of the training, learning, and teaching at the FKKA. I have been fortunate enough to train with one of the best in the business and continue to do so to this day. The training and lessons have proven invaluable and are a major part of my life. Since stepping foot in the dojo many years ago, I have seen students come and go, and it is my belief that every student who has walked through the doors, has left better than they were when they entered. Those that have remained, can attest to the great environment that welcomes students from all over. With a mission statement that reads, “To make a positive difference in the communities we serve by teaching family karate!” you really cannot go wrong choosing Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate. Classes are structured to help students gain positive results, while building confidence, discipline, and respect. Immediately upon joining, you are welcomed into the FKKA family. Caring instruction is tailored to the students' capabilities, and no student is left to feel they do not have a place in the dojo. Students from all walks of life are welcome. Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate offers classes to fit any schedule. In addition to group and private instruction, the FKKA also encourages participation in numerous workshops and training events throughout the year. The annual Fast Track event is a highly anticipated training day that all eligible students look forward to. Designed to help students reach their next belt level in an expedited manner, it is a tough but fun training day that all students enjoy. Visiting the dojo is reminiscent of wandering through a martial arts museum. Many accolades adorn the interior and is a testament to the many accomplishments of Grandmaster Randall Flaherty. With legendary martial arts lineage, the decision to join the FKKA is an easy decision if you are searching for the perfect location for yourself, your children, or the entire family. A Truly Exceptional Dojo and Community By: Ericka C. Date: May 14, 2025 Over the past three years, we’ve had the privilege of watching our son grow in ways we never imagined—all thanks to this incredible dojo. From the moment we joined, we became part of a strong and supportive community that is deeply committed to student growth and the preservation of traditional martial arts values.

The instructors are everything we hoped for and more—passionate black belts who are not only skilled martial artists but also gifted teachers and role models. They offer firm and respectful guidance, always meeting each student where they are and encouraging growth based on individual needs and abilities. The balance they strike between being playful and energetic while also holding high expectations and following through is remarkable.

What truly sets this dojo apart is the positive, respectful environment they foster. They understand and care for their students deeply, and they collaborate closely with families to help each child achieve their personal goals. We’ve watched our son blossom in confidence, social skills, respect, and responsibility. His outlook has shifted, and he’s even grown as a young leader through the teaching opportunities provided.

I trust each and every instructor with my son, and I’m endlessly grateful for the time, energy, and heart they pour into their work. This dojo is more than just a place to learn karate—it’s a place where character is built, potential is nurtured, and students are truly seen and valued. We can’t recommend it highly enough. Review: Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Academy (Stockton, CA) By: Bryan C. April 30, 2025 As a retired schoolteacher, martial artist, and Kung Fu instructor, it is my pleasure and honor to write this review and recommendation for Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Academy (FKKA) in Stockton, CA. In my most humble opinion, FKKA is probably, if not, the most elegant and elite martial arts studio in the San Joaquin Valley, owned and operated by Grandmaster Randall Flaherty, 10th degree black belt and his wife, Mariana. I have known Grandmaster Flaherty for almost 15 years, and throughout this time, he and his co-instructor team, never ceases to amaze me with how much quality and passion they exhibit in conducting their classes with high quality martial arts instruction and treating their students with the utmost respect. Upon entering the studio of FKKA, you will experience a warm and welcoming feeling; an aura depicting elegance, grandeur, and class. FKKA is truly a studio fit for royal status or be situated in a Hollywood setting. Draped in the lobby, from wall to wall, (and up to the ceiling), one cannot help but admire the awe-exquisite classy décor and endless variety of awards; along with trophies, articles, and artefacts depicting the world of martial arts. Many articles and awards on display show recognition of Grandmaster, and many of his precious students. Special displays and recognition awards showing the association of Grandmaster, with many famous celebrities and warriors in the martial arts world, are also intermixed into the fabric of this wonderful wall of celebration, honor, and pride. Most importantly, FKKA is more than just a karate school; every student (and co-instructors) and their families are part of a collective, a family, a team where everyone learns and helps one another. By being part of the FKKA family, students learn and exhibit respect, honor, integrity, and other positive traits beyond the six pillars of character: grooming their mindset to become kind and wonderful citizens in society, and/or becoming future leaders of our tomorrow. It is no wonder why so many of FKKA’s students regularly show evidence in academic excellence and/or improvement in their public or private school settings. For those who wish to explore the world of martial arts for their children, themselves, or others, I would not hesitate to recommend FKKA. You will experience the highest quality instruction from a dedicated and caring staff of martial arts professionals, here, at Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Academy – Stockton, CA. We LOVE Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate! By: Aileen F. February 18, 2024 We LOVE Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate! Since my son started over 2 years ago his confidence and ability to concentrate has improved, positively affecting his school life as well. We are very proud of his accomplishments, but more importantly, he’s proud of himself. Flaherty’s offers a safe and structured environment designed to help the kids succeed. I recommend it 100 times over “Flaherty’s continues to be a force of excellence.” By: Jeff A. March 28, 2024 I started at Flaherty’s back in 1999 at an older location. After receiving my 1st Degree, I moved to explore the world and arts - I traveled with the circus, I joined the Marine Corps, I trained in a variety of other martial arts, and earned certifications in Personal Training, Fitness, and Strength Conditioning. Though I continue to coach 6-7 days a week at a few different martial arts schools today, no matter where I go, I find myself constantly pulling stories of how we trained back at “my old Kempo school.” After reconnecting later last year, I was happy to find the old ways still alive with GM Flaherty, and the school and art were flourishing. No matter where I’ve been or what I’ve done, this school has always been the pinnacle of my training. I’ve recently returned to continue my training almost 25 years later because Flaherty’s continues to be a force of excellence. I highly recommend you check it out for yourself. “FKKA is a community treasure.” By: Pr. A. December 20, 2023 FKKA is a community treasure that continues to provide not only world-class martial arts instruction, but instills life-skills such as discipline and respect. Our family is thankful that FKKA remains a local institution dedicated to the education of our youth and their flexible schedule provides times for parents to choose what best fits their daily schedule. Since, joining FKKA, our son has learned self-discipline and reflects these skills at home. Can’t thank Grandmaster Randall Flaherty and his spouse for continuing to open their doors for all that want to come and learn. Balance and Performance By: Rafael B. January 18, 2023 FKKA has been a great school for my kids. Grand Master Flaherty works great with kids and the kids respect him and others. Karate has really helped my son with his balance and have been a major help in his performance in the sports he plays. I have two children enrolled now and as soon as my other two are at age they will also join. Guidance and Encouragement By: Jeff R. December 21, 2021 To: admin@karatetoday.com 3 belts in 3 months. White, Yellow, and Orange. That’s what I have been able to achieve since I started going to this highly respected dojo owned by Grandmaster Flaherty and his wife, Mrs. Flaherty, in October. His teaching, guidance and encouragement has helped me obtain this goal. Grandmaster Flaherty and his instructors are top notch and the best in their field. Providing excellent instruction in group and private one on one classes. In the 3 months I have been going here, I have a growing respect for the martial arts and I am developing a passion for Kenpo Karate. I highly recommend this dojo for anyone, at any age, if they want to learn Kenpo from one of the most respected Grandmasters in Kenpo. Respectfully your student, Jeff Rabanal “The training is top-notch.” By: Barbara G. March 08, 2017 I have been a student at Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate for several years, eventually earning my Black Belt and title of Instructor. Throughout the years I have had the opportunity of witnessing firsthand the remarkable level of instruction from the Grandmaster himself his dedication to the students, and the great amount of discipline and respect shared by all present at the Academy - Instructors, adult students, kids. and parents. The training is top-notch; I have seen many kids who started as shy new students - some of them having experienced bullying before - gain confidence and respect for themselves as well as others as their training progressed. Some of the kids have been part of the Academy for years, with their families eventually enrolling their siblings as they get old enough to train. One family has currently four of their children training at the Academy, enrolled one at a time throughout the past eight years. As an instructor myself, I talk to the parents and ask them for feedback, and their response is consistent: this is a Martial Arts school that is simply great for kids, informative and fun. Adult students also benefit from the vast knowledge and experienced advice offered by the Grandmaster, as well as from the various other Black Belt instructors who have been trained directly under his supervision. If what you are looking for is a reputable Martial Arts School with experienced, knowledgeable, and fun instruction, I definitely recommend Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Academy. Always Listening By: Harvey C. November 11, 2016 About 4 years ago, my son’s school called me and said he was being bullied by a group of kids. I found out from him it had been happening all year. When I asked him why he never told me, he said he was afraid I would get mad at him. That same day we met Grandmaster Flaherty and his wife Mariana. My nervous, skinny little 10-year-old son who had been wearing glasses since he was 3 agreed to try the free class that day. He has been a student of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate ever since. Over the years, being a single father, I have had to ask for advice from the Grandmaster and Mrs. Flaherty on more than one occasion. They have always listened and been able to help. My son doesn't get bullied anymore, and has never had to use his Martial Arts training against anyone. Today my son has confidence in himself. He is very respectful, and loves to teach what he has learned to other students. He is a Freshmen in High School and currently has 4 A+s, 1 A, & 1 B, the best grades ever. He will soon be testing for his Junior Black Belt. I am very Proud of my Son, and have watched him grow and mature since we first came to this DOJO. Over the years, watching the Grandmaster and his Black Belt Instructors train my son, I, too, have grown. I am no longer the unapproachable guy my son could not come to for help. In addition, I want to give a special thanks to Mrs. Griggs (3rd Degree Black Belt), trained by the Grandmaster. She has been giving private lessons to my son for about 2 1/2 years. She is very committed and loyal to the DOJO and gives back by teaching classes while training for her 4th Degree. I highly recommend Flaherty's Kenpo Karate! Best Reasonable Prices By: Theresa R. August 21, 2015 Very clean. The owners Mr. & Mrs. Flaherty are awesome & patient with kids of all ages. Best reasonable prices in town. I recommend to everyone. Confidence and Knowledge By: Gianne C. August 21, 2014 I have been to two other martial arts studios, and I am proud to say that this is by far the best self defense instruction I have received in comparison to previous instruction. I have been with this academy for approximately three years and recently received my 1st degree. The confidence and knowledge I have gained throughout these years is absolute and unequivocal to what I may not have learned in other schools. Needless to say, the instruction offered here is amazing, and by far I highly recommend those who are ambitious enough to gain the knowledge of martial arts and self-defense. And the rates are fair priced in comparison to the knowledge you gain within one session. Building Positive Relationships By: Lance T. July 17, 2014 My relationship with Grandmaster Flaherty is at its strongest. He has been a great role model to live up to from the beginning. I am always looking to be as nice and respectful as he is to other people. In addition, I want to also be as dangerous as he is. Even though Grandmaster Flaherty has reached his goal of black belt, he makes it his goal to help his students achieve their goals. This generosity that he possesses influences me, because I, too, want to help other students when I’m in the class by teaching them. Impressive Studio By: Brian D. February 25, 2014 Wanted to say I was really impressed with this Karate studio while I was out seeking info today. The staff was very pleasant and easy to talk to unlike some others. Looking forward to future visits. Decades of Martial Arts Studies... By: Brian D. November 12, 2013 Flaherty's Kenpo Karate Association is an excellent place for your child to learn confidence and focus in a warm and inviting setting. Grandmaster Flaherty's many decades of martial arts study and instruction are on display as he guides the students through the nuances of kenpo and the discipline necessary for success. I brought my son here as a five-year-old after he felt frustrated with soccer. Grandmaster Flaherty was very reassuring and patient, kindly working with him in group and one-on-one settings, his wife--also a black belt--helping with instruction. We have been going to FKKA for about two-and-a-half years now and feel grateful to be part of the family. “Very nice and professional.” By: Maricela V. October 26, 2013 My 11 year old daughter has been in this karate school since she was 5 years old. And my other children have attended the school as well, I am very happy with this place everyone is very nice and professional, the dojo is very clean and I am especially pleased and thankful with Miss Griggs she is very nice and professional my daughter loves her classes and working with her. Master Flaherty is also very nice and Marianna is very helpful and happy to help everyone. Discipline, Perseverance, and Respect By: Carla P. October 18, 2013 My 11 year old has been attending this association for 2 years. He has learned the importance of discipline, perseverance, and respect. The instructors are Black Belt trained. They are gentle, and caring. The prices are very reasonable for group and individual classes. They even offer a free introductory class. It's amazing to watch shy kids transform into warriors. My son's instructor is Mariana Flaherty.  She is the best! Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association By: Anna October 19, 2011 I enrolled my two sons at Flaherty's in August, my oldest is 11 years old and is ADHD. At the time of enrollment he was pulling his hair I'm happy to say he doesn't pull anymore, Kempo Karate has done wonders for him, both of my children love going to class. I highly recommend Flaherty's Kenpo Karate, and it's Master Flaherty. Patient with Children! By: Cassandra N. September 6, 2011 Flahertys Kenpo Karate is a good place to bring your kids to learn discipline, respect and how to become mini Cobra Kais ala The Karate Kid. Ok, wait- that may not be a good thing, but Flaherty's Kenpo Karate IS. Randall Flaherty has been teaching Kenpo Karate for 30 years. He started his karate school in it's San Jose location 13 years ago and has been in this Stockton location for nearly five years. His patience with the children may just border on infinite (mine however does not). And his staff is friendly.  
Flaherty's Kenpo Karate does not require you to enter into long term contracts, and their pricing is very reasonable. You can even bring your child in for a free class to see if it will be a good fit. They offer classes for all ages. Right now my daughter, who is five, is in the "Tiny Tigers" class, and my son, who is seven, is in the beginners class. Overall, my family is having a good experience here, and I do recommend it to others. “Life Changing Martial Arts.” By: Chris F. July - 2011 I have been a student of Master Flaherty's My entire life. I am his eldest son, My name is Christopher A Flaherty. I’m writing this to express how life changing martial arts has been in my life. The lessons i’ve learned as a child and young adult in my fathers studio have translated into more than just "Self Defense". The clarity of mind & self reliance that was built from years of dedicated practice has allowed me to flourish in my business career. At age 17 I was making more money than my principle in high school providing website placement to customers around the globe. Before I reached the age of 21 I started my first business in Phoenix AZ which I have sense sold. Currently At Age 22 I have started my second business which is leading the internet marketing industry. www.firstplacetoday.com. I know full well I could not have reached such heights in my personal career without the lessons I learned as a Child & Young Adult such As, Patience, Integrity, Self Reliance, Confidence, Attention to Detail, Centering My Mind On My Task and The Overall Buckle Down & Grow Mentality I acquired From Master Flaherty. I suggest anyone looking to expand on a child's success ratio in life, in combination with the opportunity to learn excellent self defense techniques that are effective and lifelong look to martial arts & Master Flaherty's Studio. “A Positive Environment.” By: Mary Z. June 21, 2011 My son has been a student in Flaherty's Kenpo Karate for over 6 months and he has learned so much. Master Flaherty and the rest of the teachers are the greatest. I can't stress enough how important it is to have your children learn in a positive environment, well this definitely is the place! Kenpo Karate rocks! They teach you well, and cheer you on! It has done wonders for our son, his confidence levels have risen! I strongly recommend that you give Flaherty's Kenpo Karate a try you won't regret it. Family Martial Arts Training By: Joseph D.. May 3, 2011 Flaherty's Kenpo Karate is the perfect environment for anyone who wishes to learn the true knowledge as well the true value of the art of Kenpo. Every single time I enter for training I am extremely hungry to learn not only more of this beautiful art, but more of it's beautiful self defense techniques. Not only do I feel a part of a team, I feel a part of a family. Master Flaherty and all the other instructors and students provide positivity to its max, especially the Master himself. Master Flaherty is not only the greatest instructor to ever provide me with knowledge, but he performs this art so well, that it is as if he created the art of Kenpo alone. I have much training ahead of me, but I know with Master Flaherty being my sensei, he will assist me with reaching limits that are past my old ones. I can assure anyone who joins Master Flaherty's Kenpo Karate will see Karate at its peak, and it's a guarantee that anyone who steps in this environment will become sharper not only physically, but mentally as well. It's an honor to be apart of this great art. Thank you for reading. “A great place to learn self-defense.” By: Nelson D. March 3, 2011 Awesome... As the Assistant Instructor of Flaherty's Kenpo Karate Association (FKKA), located in Stockton, I would have to say that this is a great place to learn self-defense, confidence, discipline, and respect for both adults and children. The prices for tuition are very reasonable, there are no contracts, which is nice and hard to find these days. You get Quality training in the art of kenpo from Master Flaherty, a ninth degree black belt, and in my opinion, he is absolutely the real deal. There is training for children from 4-years and up, In addition, Master Flaherty keeps training fun and exciting for the kids and adults as well.
I've been with the Master Flaherty's School of Karate for over 4-years and I have earned the black belt status. If you want somewhere for you or your family to learn martial arts with great instruction at a low cost, then you have found the right place. The school is clean with lots of kicking bags and mirrors, while Master Flaherty provides a safe and ego free environment for people of all ages to learn. Beside the School's Instruction, everyone is friendly and helpful towards each other. You will feel right at home... Spending Quality Time By: Pastor John A. March 1, 2011 It was December of 2007 when we first became acquainted with Master Randall Flaherty. My son Jonathon had decided to learn the art of Kenpo. Due to my extensive travels as a international Christian Minister, I saw an opportunity to spend some quality time with my son, so I joined the Dojo a few months later. I have found Master Flaherty to be a kind, compassionate, giving instructor. As a blessing to me as a International Minister, he has extended all of my class lessons and private instructions free of charge. One thing that impressed me was the Christian atmosphere in which sessions were conducted. I never heard one word of profanity used. All training carried a sense of respect and honor. After 1 year of training, we were called to begin a new church plant work in Santa Rosa. We visited three Kenpo Dojos only to leave disappointed, so we stopped training for 2 years. In July 2010, we were released from the church in Santa Rosa and basically had the choice to move anywhere we chose to. My initial thought was to move close to the San Francisco Airport due to my weekly travels. After prayer I felt to have a family meeting and ask each family member where THEY wanted to live. The unanimous decision was to move to Stockton and one major factor was so Jon and I could resume our Kenpo Training and get our Black Belts under Master Flaherty's fine leadership. Shortly, I plan to be testing for my "blue belt" status and hope to obtain my black belt in a few short years. “Middle-aged Students Thrive.” By: “A Karate Mom” March 1, 2011 As a middle-aged mother of two, I probably don't fit most people's typical idea of a martial artist; however, I find myself thriving as a successful Karate student at Flaherty's Kenpo Karate in Stockton. I have been attending classes at the Dojo for two years now, as have my two boys, ages eight and eleven, and I feel that the three of us have enormously benefited from the combination of true discipline, respect, and hard work as well as a friendly environment that this outstanding school provides. The owner of the school, Master Flaherty, is the primary instructor and is always present at the Dojo to ensure that the highest level of training is offered at all times. As a helper instructor under Master's Flaherty's supervision, I've had the chance to work closely with him and observe his wide knowledge of the art as well as his professionalism and integrity on many occasions; he is also a very approachable man with a friendly side and a quick smile. I strongly feel that Flaherty's Kenpo Karate school can appeal to all people, men and women, of all ages and in all kinds of physical shape. Whether self-defense training is your primary goal, or you are just looking for a fun and effective way to improve your personal fitness, health, balance, speed, and self-confidence, I urge you to try a free class and see for yourself how easily this school can fit your needs. The best part is that this high level of instruction is offered at a very reasonable price and free of binding contracts, and I'm sure that in these difficult financial times many of us can appreciate that. Flaherty's Kenpo Karate is, in my opinion, truly a school of excellence, and I highly recommend it to all. “Mr. Flaherty is a friend.” By: Roland G. December 18, 2010 I Roland Gonzales have know Mr. Randy Flaherty for over 20 years. I have known Mr. Flaherty as a Martial Artist and also as a close friend. He has always been an honest and outstanding person and a very reliable person. We have worked together as Martial Arts Instructors and I have found him to be respected by his students and peers. “Senior Project for domestic violence.” By: Vanessa C. November 19, 2009 To Master Flaherty: I entered the doors of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association just thinking about my Senior Project for domestic violence and starting early on my fieldwork hours. However, as I have attended the weekly classes, my purpose for joining FKKA has changed. Now, I want to learn Kenpo Karate not for my Senior Project only, but I also want to be able to defend myself. In addition, I am enjoying the class. It has been of great pleasure being in FKKA. You and your co-instructors, Ms. Pash and Mr. Delcid, have been very helpful and welcoming to me, including the other students. I’ve begun learning Kenpo Karate two months ago, yet I already hold the orange belt. I’ve learned a lot under your command and the help of your co-instructors. Learning self-defense techniques has helped me understand the situations that a victim of domestic violence might go through. As what we have agreed to, I was only going to join FKKA until December. However, as days have gone by, I am becoming interested in continuing with my lessons, depending on my work and school schedule as of January 2010. If I am not able to continue, don’t worry. I would be glad to visit the school again. I would also recommend FKKA to any of my younger cousins or any of my friends who are interested in learning self-defense. I know I have chosen the right place for learning Kenpo Karate that would help me with my senior project. I truly appreciate all the hard work you and your co-instructors have shown through teaching me the right techniques of self-defense. I greatly thank you, Ms. Pash, and Mr. Delcid for the giving opportunity to be able to join FKKA. My Observation! By: Debbie S. November 09, 2009 This letter is to attest to the person of Mr. Randall Flaherty. I have known Mr. Flaherty for 4 years. He has always been friendly, respectful and very professional. I have interacted with him and his family in business and as a student in his studio. I observed him as being a kind and considerate father, husband, instructor and friend. “High since of Integrity.” By: Curtis & Pamela M. October - 2009 Dear Master Flaherty, My name is Pamela Mannah; I am a Special Education instructor with Lincoln Unified School District. My husband is an instructor with the San Joaquin County Office of Education, and works with the counties at risk students. We are writing to you to express our sincerest thanks for all that you have done for our family. It was August 2008 when we first signed my son John up for classes in karate. I wanted to let you know that my husband and I chose your studio over the others in town through careful consideration. Before we made any kind of decision to attend, we went to observe the instruction styles at several of the other local dojos. Your dojo was by far the most inviting, and caring studio in town. Your style of teaching was open and friendly while at the same time maintained discipline and a high since of integrity. You were very encouraging and nurturing to all of the students and helped develop a sense of accomplishment with every class. Our son moved from the white belt to yellow belt and on to the orange belt requirements very quickly. It was because of the success we saw with our son, that we decided to join as well. In March of 2009 we began our journeys toward the black belt. At the end of March, my husband and daughter were in a very serious accident and we missed several months of classes to help care for our daughter. As a result our progress had greatly slowed. Still, you were there for us. You continued to encourage us to be the best we could be and even worked with us to create a flexible schedule that suited our current needs. As part of our daughter’s recovery, you agreed to bring her into our classes and helped us to build up her endurance and balance while we continued with our own lessons. In the short time that we have had Victoria in classes she has come a long way. We feel very strongly that your teaching style is one that promotes success, pride, and a sense of self-defense with-in all who attend. Our sincerest thanks for all that you do. Martial Arts for Everyone! By: Ricardo C. October 23, 2009 Nothing would please me more than to talk about Martial Arts and all positive people and things that go with it. My friend and colleague Randy Flaherty, whom I’ve known for over 25 years is one of those, who like to teach Martial Arts to everyone. He has been in the business for many years, and enjoys working with students of all ages. He has a good rapport with the adults and children in the school. Randy is very good at what he teaches. He knows the extent, different as they are, of each person’s learning abilities. Everyone at his school respects and admires him for his patience, generosity, and sincerity. http://www.firstplacetoday.comshapeimage_3_link_0
F.K.K.A. Testimonials