The Olympic Karate School in Hobart has emerged victorious, taking home a first-place win at the State championship competition held on December 14, 2024, at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne.
For John “Sensi John” Nemtuda, the school’s owner and head instructor, this victory is a testament to years of dedication, discipline, and perseverance in martial arts.
“Growing up in Gary like I did, you learn how to defend yourself early in life. Otherwise, you got beat up,” Nemtuda said. “As I got older, I started lifting weights and eventually a friend and I signed up for a karate class. It was life-changing.”
Nemtuda’s martial arts journey spans decades with accomplishments to satisfy a lifetime.
“I taught my first class in 1977, where I trained a local chapter of the Guardian Angels, a non-profit international volunteer organization that specializes in crime prevention. Then, in 1986, I started teaching a martial arts class at Olympic Karate. In 1995, I opened my second location in Hobart,” Nemtuda said. “Over the years, I've been an instructor at Indiana University Northwest, I taught at the Gary YWCA and several other places such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana.”
Returning home as State champions meant more to Nemtuda and his students than just the trophy in hand—it represented personal goals and aspirations being fulfilled.
“The victory means a lot. In a competition like that, where hundreds, if not thousands, of karate schools participate and deliver their absolute best, taking home first place shows that anyone—even an average person—can become a State champion.”
For Nemtuda, it's the average children from diverse backgrounds and upbringings who remind him why he does what he does.
"Each day, I teach a class and tell my students that it takes courage to defend themselves. Don’t let anybody push you around—you’re better than that. Then, when they have to use self-defense and I see the victory on their faces, that is reward enough. It’s not about me; it’s about them,” Nemtuda said.
Now, at the age of 70, after 50 years of practicing and teaching martial arts, Nemtuda’s goals shift toward guiding the next generation, passing on the values and skillset that continue to shape his own life.
“The next milestone I set for myself is to see my kids reach a goal that they set for themselves and become great brown and black belts one day, which is an achievement within itself,” Nemtuda said.
Following their state championship win, the Olympic Karate School has now set its sights on sponsoring young children who cannot afford the martial arts classes.
“We're looking for those generous individuals who would like to donate to such a great cause to help young people come out to the dojo, work out, and not just learn self-defense, but take the time and energy to develop themselves and become a better person in this world. I think that's what the world needs today, better people,” Nemtuda said.
The Olympic Karate School is located at 1841 E 37th Ave, Hobart. For those interested in donating to the sponsorship, signing up, or wishing to learn more about the dojo and all they have to offer, call (219) 200-0283.
"When I work with a child and see a smile, have a great conversation, or talk with the child and their parents about challenges at home or school. Offering advice or lending a helping hand—that alone is a great accomplishment and gives me so much joy,” said Nemtuda.