I had trained at multiple Karate schools before finding Wado Karate Centers. There is no comparison. Wado Karate Centers is definitely the best place to learn the martial arts. They are still affiliated with Japan and regularly have Japanese Masters come to MiddleTennessee to train the instructors and students. Sensei O'Riley is a very dedicated instructor who demands discipline, respect, confidence, and humility. He does this with a stern approach and a heart of gold. As a child and young adult I was always involved and loved playing many sports. My wife and I now have 3 small children of our own. We personally do not care if our kids play sports or not, but they will take karate. I know from personal experience, karate will help and aid them in becoming "a better" anything they choose in life; a doctor, lawyer, self employed business owner, or a "stay at home dad". Even a better athlete, if that is the path they choose. I can not imagine my kids not taking the "martial arts". And I 100% recommend the Wado Karate Centers and Sensei O'Riley. read more

As a martial arts instructor, I have taught thousands of students over the past 30 years. We teach all students as individuals attempting to understand each of their needs. We also teach a very disciplined system that requires focus. In the beginning most children do not have this so called focus, disciple, and concentration. Therefore we begin teaching the basics as well as the discipline needed to succeed. In life if we are not somewhat disciplined we pay a price for our mistakes. We also take this approach in the dojo. Many parents do not understand this process. We do not abuse the students. However as they grow we expect more focus and concentration. If a child is disrupting the class they are corrected. You are also welcome to check out my personal credentials at orileykarate.com or useasternwado.com I highly recommend the staff at Wado Karate Centers in Antioch or Smyrna and Rivergate as well... read more

I have had the wonderful opportunity to train a few times under Mr. O'Riley in the past several years. He is a wonderful teacher, and he always knows how to break the tension of hard training with his humor. Although I am not one of his students, I belong to the same organization, so he would usually be at my belt tests and other events. I attended a class at his dojo once, when the grandson of the founder of Wado-Ryu came to the United States. He has a very nice dojo. If you're looking for real, traditional Japanese Karate in Nashville, he is definitely the teacher you are looking for. In my opinion, Wado-Ryu is the best style for children (and adults) to learn discipline, self esteem, confidence, awareness, and self defense. Having dedicated his life to helping others through Karate, I highly recommend his school. read more

I have been with this school since June 2011. I found it when looking for something to help my 5 year old son learn focus and discipline. When I first met him, I enjoyed the Sensei's approach to martial arts: it works your mind, body, and spirit. The Sensei and his wonderful instructors have done nothing but work with my child to be the best he can be. After watching for over a year, I took the plunge and became a student myself! It was the best decision I have made for myself! I recently started my younger child and he loves it as well. I tell anyone that will listen about this wonderful school!!! read more

I have been training under Sensei O'Riley for 8 years. This is a classic martial arts school, if you want to earn a black belt, expect work for it. Sensei teaches discipine, instills self confidence and motivation and is a perfectionist in his teaching. Exactly what a true martial artist should be and expect his students to be. When I started training I wanted a serious martial arts dojo, one that would train me in the physical, mental and spiritual aspect of the martial arts. I get all of these all at O'Riley karate centers. I am very honored to have Sensei O'Riley as my teacher/instructor. read more

As parents we are big on structure, discipline and fun for our son. O'Reilly Karate encompasses all of those values in a safe environment. The instructors were caring, as well as dedicated to teaching the art of Karate. The Sensi was available when you needed him and accommodating to family needs. This has been an awesome experience and has motivated our son to continue Karate and reach even greater goals. Our family would recommend O'Reilly Karate to all families. read more

Wado Karate Center is a great place to learn traditional Japanese karate. As an adult student it has taught me a lot most importantly "PERSERVERANCE." The instructors care about all children/adult students (which is a direct reflection of Sensei O'Reilly). I couldn't ask for a better wado family. As a parent, my child will soon join and reap the same benefits as her mother (Loyalty, honor, respect, passion, preserverance, skill, etc..). read more

I wrote a review last year and just realized it never posted! My son has been with O'Riley Karate for two years now and it has been excellent for him! He has learned much focus, discipline and respect at this school. He is ADHD and needed this program very much. It is much like life....you work hard and you get ahead. A great school with some very wonderful instructors! read more

I am not a member but I personally have known Stephen O'Riley since elementary school and he is an honorable a man as you will ever find. A true blessing. read more