Karate international building Leaders in Windham since 2002
Karate international has Classes in Windham, Perfect for Kids, Teens, and Adults Martial Arts Lessons.
Building Confident Leaders in Windham/Salem Since 2002
At Karate International, we believe martial arts is about more than just movement—it’s about the person you become through the process.
Who We Are
Finding a martial arts school is about finding a community. We’ve built Karate International to be a place where students of all ages—from our “Little Dragons” to our adult learners—can develop the focus, discipline, and resilience needed to succeed in life.
Our curriculum is intentionally designed around how people actually learn. We bridge the gap between physical technique and mental growth, using structured repetition and positive encouragement to strengthen the brain-body connection. We don’t believe in shortcuts; we believe in celebrating the steady, hard-earned progress that builds genuine self-esteem.
Shihan Joe Costa (Owner)
In 1991, Shihan Joe embarked on his martial arts journey, reaching a milestone in 1993 with the achievement of his Black Belt. Seeking deeper knowledge, he studied under Evan Pantazi, attaining a 3rd degree Black Belt in 2001. The same year, he delved into Kyusho Kenpo under George Dillman’s guidance.
Fueled by passion, Shihan Joe and his wife, Sensei Shannon, founded the Karate International of Windham in 2002. Recognition came in 2015 when he received the prestigious 6th degree Black Belt from The Kenpo Council of Grand Masters and Robert Lamattina. Currently holding a 7th degree Black Belt under Professor Duncan, Shihan Joe’s expertise also extends to a Black Belt in the Super Foot Bill Wallace System, showcasing his genuine love for martial arts as he imparts knowledge and inspires.
Sensei Shannon
Sensei Shannon started practicing Kenpo at the age of 9 with her four sisters. She has worked hard to reach the rank of Sandan, or 3rd Degree Black Belt. She believes that Martial Arts teaches more than just a sport- its a way of life that can transform people into confident, successful leaders. Sensei Shannon has personally experienced this transformation herself, going from quiet and introverted to confident and successful. With her experience, she hopes to inspire and guide her students to become the successful leaders of tomorrow.
Miss Sarabeth
Sarabeth’s martial arts journey shows it’s never to late to start – or finish something you started. Sarabeth began training in Shaolin Kempo karate at the age of 9, but needed to stop due to physical health issues after she received her brown belt. After spending many years kickboxing and regretting that decision, she went back and received her black belt in Kenpo at KI of Windham as an adult.
After this success, she set her sights on new goals including finishing Martial Arts instructor training with MATTac, and becoming a CPT, as well as working toward her next rank. When she’s not helping on the mat, you’ll find her out front in her second role as program director.
Mr. Joey
Mr. Joey is truly a dedicated Martial Artist with a life-long passion for his craft. He has been honing his skills since childhood and grew up immersed in the Dojo culture. As a testament to his hard work and determination, he currently holds the rank of 2nd degree Black Belt.
Mr. Joey’s infectious enthusiasm and genuine love for teaching make him a popular teacher among his students. He takes joy and satisfaction in seeing his students progress and grow in their own martial arts journeys.
Aside from his dedication to the martial arts, Mr. Joey is also serving his country as part of the NH Army National Guard. Currently, he is deployed in Kuwait, where he continues to serve with honor and distinction. His students eagerly await his return, knowing that he will have much to share upon his homecoming
Mr. Raon
Mr. Raon has been training at Karate International since he was 10 years old. He hold the rank of 1st Degree Jr. Black belt.