Karate
The World Karate Federation (WKF) is the largest sport karate organization and is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as being responsible for karate competition in the Olympic Games. The WKF has developed common rules governing all styles. The national WKF organizations coordinate with their respective National Olympic Committees.
Thomas Carroll (martial artist)
Carrol was a former jiujitsu practitioner before learning Karate under George Cofield. Carroll was a member of the USA Karate Hall of Fame, chairman of USA Karate New York as Treasurer, and holding positions as head coach. He was key in getting karate recognized by the International Olympic Committee. Considered by some to be an American martial arts pioneer he defeated many famous martial artists including Bill "Superfoot" Wallace in tournaments. He also trained actors Gregory Hines and Ralph Macchio of Karate Kid. He is considered to be a contemporary of the Chuck Norris and Joe Lewis An 8th degree blackbelt he was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame in 1969. Thomas was also featured in various magazines including Black Belt Magazine and Official Karate Magazine.