VALDOSTA — After-school activities can be instrumental in a child’s life, keeping them busy, teaching them focus and creating purpose for life. Sports and hobbies of all kinds can improve a child’s self-esteem and help them make life-long friends. For many, what happens after school will determine which path the child takes for his or her future.

Karate is a popular after-school sport for children over the age of 5. It is a healthy activity for the mind and body. Students learn self-discipline and motivation while improving coordination and physical fitness.

At Jeffery’s Okinawan Karate Academy, Valdosta’s newest instructional facility, sixth degree black belt John Jeffery teaches his students more than just martial arts. As he passes on knowledge from his 33 years experience, he also introduces Christian values and principles.

Children who study at Jeffery’s Academy learn traditional Okinawan karate, traditional Okinawan Kobujutsu (with weapons) and self-defense which includes Aikido and Jujitsu techniques. The environment for learning is safe and encouraging with a basis in Christian values.

Classes include beginner and advanced children’s classes as well as classes for ages 13 and up. White up to black belts ages 5 and older can find guidance at Jeffery’s Academy.

As a member of Black Belts for Christ, students have the opportunity to travel through Georgia and Florida to compete in tournaments during the year. Several children have brought back trophies for their exceptional performances.

Jeffery hopes to be a success in the community with people spreading the good word. His desire is for people to notice the positive influence his academy has on Valdosta and especially on the children involved.



Q: Why did you want to open this business?

A: My vision was to start a traditional martial arts academy (Dojo) in Valdosta in a Christian environment that emphasizes Christian values.

Q: What can be learned from karate?

A: Self-discipline, motivation, physical fitness, self-confidence, humbleness, coordination, stress relief and generally having fun.

Q: What do you offer?

A: Forms training, weapons training, self-defense, free fighting and 33 years of experience.

Q: How does this style of karate differ from others?

A: The kicks, punches, blocks and strikes are basically the same. The difference is that we offer a system that is both classical and traditional; it has been passed down from teacher to students for many years. We also teach Okinawan weaponry that includes the use of the Bo (staff), Nanchaku, Sais, Jodos (short sticks) Tunfa, Kamas (sickles) and Katana (long sword).

Q: How many students do you have?

A: Presently, we have 45 students.

Q: What do you enjoy most about teaching?

A: Sharing what I have learned and helping all the students to achieve their fullest potential, not only in the karate school, but also in their personal lives. Also, seeing the smiles on all the faces as they do something they think they can’t.

Q: What do people need to know?

A: Our karate school is a place that they can come and learn a martial art in a safe environment and to gain knowledge that will not only apply in their karate training, but also in their daily lives. In today’s world, a person must be prepared to meet many challenges. I believe that if I can help students to meet those challenges in this life, then I can say that I have achieved the purpose in my life that God has intended for me.





Jeffery’s Okinawan Kenpo Karate Academy

Owner: John Jeffery

Phone: (229) 548-0374

Location: 408 Suite F. Northside Drive (across from Mink Chiropractic)

Hours: 5:15 p.m. until 7:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. Saturday.

Instructors/degree belt/experience:

• John Jeffery, sixth degree black belt, 33 years

• Darron Baker, second degree black belt, six years

• Richard Maclaughlin, first degree black belt, seven years

• Ed Kent Jr., first degree black belt, seven years

• James Kent III, first degree black belt, 10 years

• Alicia Thompson, first Kyu brown belt, five years

• Danielle Costello, third Kyu brown belt, three years