• The United States Karate Academy was founded in 2004 in Bellevue, Nebraska by Naval Aviator, LT Sal Convento.  LT Convento was serving out his last assignment serving the United States Military, while creating his new life assignment of spreading the positive benefits of martial arts to as many people as possible.
  • In September 2006, LT Convento was honorably discharged from the United States Navy and relocated to San Diego, California as a full civilian, leaving a capable instructor in charge of the Nebraska academy.  In the next few months he would lay the foundation of his second USKA location in the heart of the former Naval Training Center, now known as Liberty Station.  The military environment was only fitting for a veteran pilot to establish a flourishing business.
  • On 18 June 2007, the United States Karate Academy San Diego opened its doors to the community of Point Loma.  Word spread and the school began to grow rapidly, topping out at approximately 170 students at the two-year anniversary mark in June 2009.  This outstanding growth was due to the right blend of quality instruction, business prowess, and community leadership.

Throughout its time in business, USKA has undeniably left its mark in the San Diego community.

Community Achievements:

  • First Place in the 2010 Best of San Diego Awards by the San Diego Union Tribune
  • Winner of the 2008 Outstanding Emerging Business Award by the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce
  • Winner of the 2009 Excellence in Customer Service Award by the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce
  • Founders of the NTC/Liberty Station Tenant Association monthly meeting that unifies all merchants and institutions in Liberty Station
  • Developed a highly informative self defense seminar that is freely performed for any organization as a community service