Meet Our Team
FOUNDER & HEAD INSTRUCTOR
SENSEI JAN STOCKTON
Jan Stockton, a 3rd degree black belt, has been a leader in the martial arts for over 35 years. Under her ownership, her first in-person school grew to 1000 youth and adult students, but her first love has always been teaching kids!
Jan founded Great Start Karate in 2021, the only online martial arts program that focuses entirely on kids! Her online karate program for ages 5 and up incorporates all the best of martial arts training, designed exclusively for kids. Jan and her dedicated team are passionate about helping kids grow in mind, body, and character.
Jan has seen a positive impact in thousands of kids who discover the physical benefits of martial arts training, but more importantly, the character development they experience by learning valuable life skills.
Parents enjoyed the convenience of having their kids train at home with no commutes, lower tuitions costs and Covid safety. Great Start Karate’s online program is ideally suited for homeschoolers!
SENSEI KATIE RANDOL
Katie first discovered the martial arts 30 years ago, where she excelled in both technique and competition. Katie has won multiple awards competing in tournaments, and is versed in a number of martial arts weapons. Martial arts not only fostered discipline and physical fitness in Katie’s life, but it also reflects her unwavering commitment to personal growth, perseverance, and mastering the mind-body connection
A mom of two children, ages 10 and 13, Katie has embraced her role as their homeschool educator for 11 years. This decision stems from her firm belief in the importance of personalized education, while nurturing the unique strengths and interests of the individual child.
Katie’s holds a degree in applied sciences, with a major in Veterinary Technology. Her deep affection for animals has led to a lifelong career in veterinary medicine. As a veterinary triage professional, Katie finds fulfillment in learning and caring about various species of animals while actively supporting pets and their owners.
Katie aspires to make a positive impact on the lives of children. She aims to inspire, motivate, and empower kids to unlock their full potential. With her passion for the martial arts, and love of children, Katie was the ideal choice as a Lead Instructor for Great Start Karate.
SENSEI TINA GITLIN
Tina Gitlin, a 2nd degree black belt, started on her karate journey 26 years ago with her family. From running her own daycare to working as a children’s program director, Tina has always loved working with children and spent much of her karate career training the smallest of martial artists in a way that matches their energy and gives them a space to not only have fun but to learn and grow.
Having learned so much from her time as a student and teacher of karate, Tina loves sharing the confidence, discipline, inner strength, and self-esteem that karate brought out in her, with everyone she meets. She knows that there is so much more to learn and gain from martial arts than just how to punch and how to kick, and one of her strengths is knowing how to make these life skills come alive for children.
Often called “the Pied Piper” of kids, wherever Tina goes, the children are sure to follow and have a blast every step of the way. She can’t wait to meet, train, laugh, and grow with your child!
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