International Olymp Karate Federation

Sensei Rafael Vagarshakian founded the International Karate Federation in 1979. He is a 8th dan Black Belt.

Many of Sensei Rafael Vagarshakian 's students have attained National and World titles and have won numerous awards. IOKF has more than 17 locations on the mainland United States, Armenia and Russia.

Despite the many awards and titles won by its students, the focus of IOKF is on

individual development and traditional values.
In 1978, Rafael Vagarshakian won the International Championship in Armenia, the most prestigious karate tournament in Armenia, even to today. Shortly after, Rafael Sensei was asked by many karate organizations to open a school in the Armenia as well as in other countries. In 1979, Rafael Sensei, at the age of 26, Rafael Sensei established the International Olymp Karate Federation (IOKF).
Since the opening of IOKF's first dojo has grown statewide and on the mainland USA. Rafael Sensei, 8th Dan, chief instructor and president of IOKF, has developed many outstanding black belts and instructors over the past years. Many of which are currently active in various national and international competitions, refereeing, and continuing the development of the fine art of Shoto- Kan.
Rafael Sensei has inspired many students to achieve high levels of skill and determination through his teachings. His ongoing dedication to karate and its development has made Rafael Sensei one of the nations leading instructors. Many of the IOKF instructors have carried on the same tradition as Rafael Sensei and have actively contributed to the betterment of the art.
Over the past 16 years, IOKF has been recognized as the #1 karate school in the Nation and International Federation No other school has been able to bring home more gold medals in one single event like International Olymp Karate Federation. As well as being the best in the nation, several IOKF students are also world champions! Through their dedication and commitment to the art, they will continue to succeed as will the other students that follow in their footsteps.
IOKF has various dojos in USA , Armenia and Russia. If you are interested in a particular dojo, please e-mail or call the instructor listed with the dojo. Where available, we
have provided their e-mail addresses and links to their
separate web sites.
If you are interested in having IOKF start classes in your school or neighborhood, please contact .