Kaizen Elite Training

A 2005 graduate of Central Catholic High School, he began a life of service immediately after graduation by enlisting in the United States Army. As a combat veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, he developed the discipline, resilience, and leadership skills that would define his professional career.

Following his military service, he dedicated more than 13 years to protecting the San Antonio community as a police officer. During his law enforcement career, he served as a DWI officer and SWAT Operator, gaining extensive experience in high-pressure environments that demanded professionalism, sound judgment, and teamwork. His passion for training and developing others led him to become a police instructor at the San Antonio College First Responders Academy, where he helped prepare the next generation of first responders for successful careers in public safety.

In 2020, he met his wife, Clarissa, who introduced him to the world of martial arts and became an important part of his journey. Through dedication and relentless training, he earned his black belt in Goju Ryu in 2024. His competitive success quickly followed, as he represented his organization at three World Championship martial arts competitions held in the Czech Republic, Japan, and Wales. Throughout these international events, he earned a World Championship title along with multiple silver and bronze medal finishes, establishing himself as a respected competitor on the world stage.

Building on his competitive accomplishments, he continued to advance within USA Karate, earning certification as a National Judge and Referee. His dedication to the sport extends beyond competition and coaching, as he plays an active role in maintaining the highest standards of officiating. Looking ahead, he plans to pursue certification through the Pan American Karate Federation and work toward becoming a certified international referee in the coming years.

With more than 10 years of instructional experience and over five years dedicated to martial arts instruction, he has built a reputation for developing athletes and leaders. Under his guidance, more than 20 students have advanced to the World Championship level, with many earning World Championship titles of their own. His coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, character, perseverance, and technical excellence, creating an environment where students are empowered to achieve their highest potential.

Today, he continues to combine the values learned through military service, law
enforcement, and martial arts to mentor, inspire, and develop future champions. His track record of producing elite competitors and world-class performers reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence, both on and off the mat. He doesn’t just teach martial arts; he builds champions.

Clarissa Villanueva is a lifelong martial artist, accomplished world  champion, and dedicated coach whose passion for martial arts has inspired students  for decades. A graduate of Med High School in Mercedes, Texas, Class of 2007,  Clarissa began her martial arts journey at the age of six alongside her younger brother, who was just three years old. Together, they trained in the Korean style of  Taekwondo, developing a strong foundation in discipline, perseverance, and competitive excellence.

In 2004, Clarissa and her brother earned their Black Belts under the guidance of Master Wayne Nguyen. During that same period, while Clarissa was still in high school, her father helped establish Team Tiger Martial Arts in McAllen, Texas. The school was created in response to the growing number of children and adults who wanted to train with Clarissa and her brother due to their success and reputation in martial arts. More than two decades later, Team Tiger Martial Arts continues to serve the community and develop future generations of martial artists.

Throughout her competitive career, Clarissa has achieved remarkable success on the world stage. She has earned World Championship titles across multiple prestigious organizations, including the National Blackbelt League (NBL), World Kickboxing Commission (WKC), World Kickboxing Union (WKU), World Martial Arts Committee (WMAC), and International Combat Organization (ICO). Her accomplishments place her among an elite group of martial artists who have demonstrated excellence across multiple disciplines and competitive platforms.

In 2020, Clarissa met her husband, Joseph, and together they began training in the Japanese martial art of Goju-Ryu Karate under the direction of Sensei Ramon Veras. Over the past six years, Clarissa and Joseph have cultivated a loyal and dedicated following of students, building a strong martial arts community centered on discipline, growth, and personal achievement.

Known for her relentless work ethic and athlete’s mindset, Clarissa maintains a rigorous training regimen and continually strives to become stronger and more skilled each day. She trains alongside her students as they prepare for competition, leading by example and demonstrating that a coach can also remain an active competitor. Her ability to successfully balance coaching, mentoring, and competing at a high level reflects her extraordinary dedication to the martial arts.

Furthering her commitment to athlete development, Clarissa has earned certification through USA Karate as a Certified Coach and is actively pursuing her goal of becoming a National Coach. At the same time, she is preparing to pursue a position on the USA Karate Senior National Team, continuing her own journey of competitive excellence.

Clarissa’s unwavering dedication, strong character, and passion for martial arts have made her a respected leader, successful competitor, and inspiring role model. Through her accomplishments and service to others, she continues to leave a lasting impact on the martial arts community and inspire students to pursue excellence both on and off the mat.