American Tiger Martial Arts Celebrates 30 Years of Building Confidence, Character, and Community
For nearly three decades, American Tiger Martial Arts & Fitness has been more than a place to learn self-defense. It has been a place where children discover confidence, adults challenge themselves, and families become part of a supportive community.
This year, we're proud to celebrate 30 years of American Tiger and invite our students, alumni, families, and neighbors to celebrate with us.
Join Us for Our 30th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, September 13th | 12:00 PM
Everyone is welcome, whether you've trained with us for years, took a few classes long ago, or have simply been curious about stepping onto the mats for the first time.
Our anniversary celebration will include:
- Martial arts demonstrations
- Games and activities
- Food and music
- Community partner booths
- A canned food drive supporting our local food bank
- Time to reconnect with students, families, and instructors from throughout our history
It's a celebration of where we've been, who we've become, and everyone who has been part of the journey.
Looking Back at 30 Years of American Tiger
American Tiger first opened its doors in 1996, when Master Gregoire founded the school with a vision of providing practical martial arts instruction while helping students grow as individuals.
As the years passed, the school continued to evolve while remaining rooted in the principles of Kung Fu San Soo. Through years of training and continued development, Master Gregoire refined the system into what is now known as Kyin Kung Fu, blending traditional principles with modern self-defense applications.
In 2001, ownership passed to Master Hawley, who spent more than two decades helping shape American Tiger into the welcoming, family-centered studio it is today. Even after retiring from ownership in 2024, she continues to teach and mentor instructors, sharing the knowledge and passion that has impacted generations of students.
That same year, the torch was passed to Master Fuller, whose story reflects what makes American Tiger so special.
Master Fuller first walked through the doors as a seven-year-old student in 1997. After earning his Black Belt in 2000 and his Master Black Belt in 2015, he became the owner of the very school where he grew up. Today, he carries forward the traditions, values, and commitment to excellence that have defined American Tiger for nearly three decades.
More Than Martial Arts
While students come to American Tiger to learn self-defense, they leave with so much more.
Every class is designed to help students develop:
- Confidence
- Self-discipline
- Respect
- Patience
- Leadership
- Conflict resolution skills
- Practical self-defense
- Kindness and compassion
These lessons extend far beyond the dojo, helping students succeed at school, at work, and throughout their daily lives.
A Community That Grows Together
One of the things we're most proud of isn't found on a belt or a trophy shelf. It's the community that has grown inside these walls.
Over the past 30 years, American Tiger has brought together thousands of students and families through classes, demonstrations, holiday celebrations, parent nights, local events, and community outreach. Friendships have been built, confidence has grown, and countless students have discovered strengths they never knew they had.
As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. We're honored to have been part of that village for so many local families.
Celebrate With Us
Whether you're a current student, a former student, a parent, or someone who has always wanted to try martial arts, we'd love for you to
join us.
Come reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, celebrate 30 incredible years, and help us kick off the next chapter of American Tiger Martial Arts & Fitness!
We look forward to celebrating with you on Saturday, September 13 at 12:00 PM.
Happy 30th Anniversary, American Tiger!
