Mr. Sean J. Carey, Head Instructor & Chief Examiner

Sean Carey is the head instructor and founder of Kokoro Martial Arts, bringing over 40 years of martial arts experience, over 30 years of teaching martial arts, and a deep passion for teaching to Wausau, WI. With black belts in multiple disciplines, including a 5th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo Karate and a 7th Degree Black Belt in Yoshin-Ryu Jiu-Jitsu, as well as a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Mr. Carey offers a unique and comprehensive approach to martial arts training.

Inspired by the timeless lessons of discipline, focus, and self-defense, Sean has dedicated his life to martial arts since 1984, when the classic film The Karate Kid sparked a lifelong journey. This journey led to decades of training across multiple martial arts styles, including Tae Kwon Do Moo Duk Kwan (where he achieved a 4th Dan ranking), American Kenpo Karate under Senior Master Paul Mills, and Yoshin Ryu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Throughout his career, Sean has trained directly under some of the most renowned martial artists in the world, including Grandmaster Paul Mills, and has had the privilege of learning from Kenpo legends such as Ed Parker, Frank Trejo, John Sepulveda, Tom Kelley, and Dan Insosanto. He has also studied Tae Kwon Do under the renowned Richard Chun, Ju-Jitsu under several high-ranking instructors at the International Ju-Jitsu Federation, and TaiChi and QiGong under the National QiGong Association. These experiences have shaped his teaching philosophy, which emphasizes practical self-defense, character development, and the balance of body, mind, and spirit.

With a proven track record of teaching martial arts since 1997, Sean has operated successful schools in Colorado before founding Kokoro Martial Arts in Wisconsin. His inclusive approach ensures that all students, regardless of age, ability, or background, feel welcome and supported in their martial arts journey.

At Kokoro Martial Arts, Sean is committed to helping students achieve their personal best, whether through mastering the striking techniques of American Kenpo Karate and Jiu-Jitsu, the grappling arts of Yoshin-Ryu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or the mindful movements of Tai Chi and QiGong. His mission is to create a safe and empowering environment where students of all ages can build confidence, strength, and resilience.

Join us and the Kokoro Martial Arts family to embark on a martial arts journey that not only teaches you how to defend yourself but also helps you grow as a person. Experience the difference of training with an instructor who combines decades of expertise with a genuine passion for teaching and community.