Welcome to the Warriors Institute

An Official Lodge of the American Order of Combat – BuDoKwan

Founded in 1992 by Grandmaster Ray Thomann, the Warriors Dojo Institute stands as a proud continuation of a legacy rooted in discipline, leadership, and honor. Its name pays homage to Grandmaster Jeffrey Lewis’ original school, where GM Thomann began his martial arts journey. Since its founding, the Warriors Institute has remained committed to empowering students of all ages through the life-shaping benefits of martial arts—discipline, confidence, self-control, warrior spirit, and character development.

Rooted in tradition and guided by practical application, the Warriors Institute blends classical martial arts values with proven modern self-defense systems. Our curriculum includes survival training, situational awareness, and essential life skills to prepare students not just for self-defense, but for life.

Grandmaster Thomann’s mission is to faithfully pass on the knowledge, traditions, and systems taught to him by his mentors to a new generation of devoted martial artists. His vision is to create a lodge—a true dojo—where students can thrive through quality instruction, mentorship, and a culture of discipline and perseverance. At the heart of the Institute is a pledge: to challenge students to train harder, stay committed, and become leaders of moral character.

Core Training Areas

American Combat Bu Do Kwan / MMA & Boxing

Founded by Grandmaster Ja’Mes Bethel, Combat Bu Do Kwan draws from U.S. military discipline, close-quarters combat, grappling, American boxing, and major combative systems. Training also includes MMA, kickboxing, Muay Thai, and practical weapons instruction—edged, impact, and firearm-based.

Traditional Martial Arts

Students have the opportunity to study American Tae Kwon Do – Moo Duk Kwan, passed down through Grandmaster Charles Graham of the American Moo Duk Kwan Federation. This system emphasizes strong foundational technique, respect, and personal growth.

PRO-TACT Training System

Developed by GM Thomann, this proactive and realistic self-defense program is built on his extensive experience in security, law enforcement, and martial arts. Students gain:

• Heightened situational awareness

• Personal safety strategies

• Training to manage the body’s natural stress response

• A proven system to respond to diverse threats

• A resolute mindset: “I will not be a victim.”

Developing Warriors – Leadership In Action

Our training goes beyond the mat. We instill timeless warrior values—humility, honor, courage, strength, faithfulness, justice, and truth—preparing students to serve God, their families, and their communities as leaders and role models.