Master Mazzola with his family
In 1995, National Karate expanded from Minnesota to Illinois, and in the first days of the new expansion school, in walked a young man named John Mazzola who was about to have his life changed forever. We believe that John’s entrance into that National Karate school was a date with destiny as he would go on to have many “firsts” as he embarked upon his martial arts journey. He became the first White Belt, and a few years later tested for Black Belt on the first Illinois Black Belt Exam. In 1997, he became the first employee and first instructor as he began his teaching career at the Elk Grove / Roselle National Karate & Martial Arts school.
Mr. Mazzola promoted to Black Belt in 1997 by Grand Master John Worley and Master Nelson
Trained by Master Cristain Nelson, Mr. Mazzola quickly distinguished himself as an excellent Instructor and an inspirational leader who was able to teach fun and exciting classes to both karate kids and martial arts adults! As soon as 1999, he was named the “Instructor of the Year” and then later that year, he was promoted to the Director position of the Elk Grove / Roselle National Karate School where he has earned the prestigious “School of the Year” award. He became a successful sport karate competitor and was ranked in the “Top 5” by the AKA (American Karate Association). In 2009 he was promoted to be the Regional Manager of the NK Illinois schools and in 2010 he earned the rank of “Master” by promoting to his 5th Degree Black Belt. In 2012, Master Mazzola earned ownership status and opened a new National Karate School in Aurora, IL with Master Nelson.
Krav Maga training at Krav Maga Association headquarters in Fayetteville, Arkansas
A continual learner, in 2021, he was promoted to “Expert Krav Maga Instructor” by the Krav Maga Association. Now, he is busier than ever running both the Elk Grove and Aurora locations while continuing his Regional Manager duties. One of his favorite martial arts experiences was teaching karate internationally to students in Romania.
Mr. Mazzola also loves being active and enjoys fighting, competing in triathlons, running, playing football and basketball. Master Mazzola is also an accomplished vocalist and sang the national anthem at the NK Chicago Black Belt Exams for many years. Mr. Mazzola lives in the Naperville, IL area with his wife Bethany (a 1st Degree Black Belt) and has four sons.
For those seeking expertise in youth martial arts and adult karate, Master John Mazzola stands as a testament to the transformative power of National Karate, exemplifying dedication, leadership, and a commitment to personal growth.
Quote: “The reason I love teaching martial arts is to help other people the way NK has helped me. National Karate has truly changed my life!” John Mazzola
Master Mazzola as a Blue Belt, fighting at the Diamond Nationals
