Welcome to Vernon Valley
Karate Academy!
Your destination for family fitness, fun, and growth.
About Us
At Vernon Valley Karate, we’re passionate about fostering a strong sense of community. Our motto is simple but powerful: "The Family that Kicks Together, Sticks Together." We pride ourselves on helping families bond, build strength, and develop skills that last a lifetime.
We teach Shorin-Ryu Reihokan Karate, a traditional and globally respected martial art originating from Okinawa, Japan. Shorin-Ryu was systemized by Sensei Chosin Chibana (1885–1969), who refined the teachings of Master Itosu and gave this powerful discipline its name. Reihokan is established by Sensei Ahagon of Okinawa and was a student of Sensei Chibana. Rooted in tradition, our classes honor the legacy of Shorin-Ryu while focusing on practical skills and modern goals.
Our academy isn’t just about karate—it’s about developing strong, confident individuals and fostering a sense of harmony and friendship. We teach the importance of respect and discipline while empowering our students with the tools to face challenges, both physical and mental.
At Vernon Valley Karate, we believe in the power of balance:
"We seek to be as soft as the world will let us be, yet as strong as it demands us to be."
Join us today and become part of a family that grows stronger, together.
Meet the Sensei's
At Vernon Valley Karate Academy, we take pride in having a dedicated and skilled team of instructors who are passionate about teaching and sharing their knowledge of Shorin-ryu Karate. Each of our team members brings unique experience and commitment, ensuring that our students receive top-notch training in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Get to know the people who make our dojo a special place for all who train here.
Sensei Tim Duvelsdorf
Sensei Tim has been training in Shorin-ryu Karate for over 23 years, starting as a student under Sensei Tom Shull. He earned his Shodan (1st degree Black Belt) in 2005 and is now a Rokudan (6th degree Black Belt). Sensei Tom Shull retired and Tim is now owner and instructor of Vernon Valley Karate Academy. He is developing ties to Okinawa and changing systems to Reiho-kan. During his visit in 2025 he tested in Okinawa under the watchful eye of Hanshi Ahagon Sensei and earned his Yondan(4th degree Black Belt) in Reihokan. Tim also holds a Shodan (1st degree Black Belt) in White Crane under Sensei Robert Herten. He enjoys teaching and seeing his students learn and appreciate the martial arts. In the earlier years, I had earned a Brown Belt in Goju-ryu under Sensei Dennis Reia.
Sensei Timmy Duvelsdorf
Sensei Timmy has trained in Shorin-Ryu Karate for over 23 years. He trained under Sensei Tom Shull, receiving his Yondan (4th degree black belt) in 2023. He now has a Nidan (2nd degree black belt) in Shorin-Ryu Reiho-Kan under Hanshi Ahagan. He teaches the Ranger and Junior programs at Vernon Valley Karate Academy, sharing his experience and passion for martial arts with the next generation.
Sensei Paul Doumanis
Sensei Paul joined Vernon Valley Karate Academy in 2006 and holds the rank of Godan (5th degree Black Belt) in Shorin-ryu Karate under Tom Shull. Now a Nidan under Shorin - ryu Reihokan. A U.S. Navy and Army veteran, he brings discipline and commitment to his teaching. He currently instructs Junior and Adult classes while proudly raising three children who have all trained at the dojo.
Sensei Jillian Banks
Sensei Jillian has trained at Vernon Valley Karate Academy since 2002 and holds the rank of Godan (5th degree Black Belt) in Shorin-ryu Karate under Tom Shull. Now a Shodan under Shorin - Ryu Reihokan. Known for her dedication and expertise, she teaches the Ranger and Junior classes, sharing her passion for karate and helping students achieve their full potential.
Sensei Scott Wolven Sr.
Sensei Scott joined karate back in 2019 and helps teach and assist the juniors classes on both Wednesday and Saturday. He is a Shodan in Shorin - Ryu Reihokan and was a Nidan in Shorin - Ryu under Tom Shull.