Grand Master George Cofield was a pioneering figure in the world of Karate during the 1960s and 1970s, known for being one of the first black instructors in the United States.
Born in 1934 in Brooklyn, New York, Cofield's interest in Karate was sparked during his time serving in the US Marine Corps in the 1950s, where he was stationed in Japan and began learning Shotokan Karate.
Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved
Upon returning to New York in 1959, Cofield established the Tong Dojo, a martial arts school where he not only taught Karate but also instilled values of resilience and discipline in his students, drawing from his own experiences growing up in tough neighborhoods. At the time he was one of the first Black instructors to commercially teach martial arts in the United States.
Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved
His dojo produced several notable fighters, including Thomas LaPuppet, Alex Sternberg, Doug “Hawk” Frazier, and the Wilder Twins, Melvin, and Calvin, who gained recognition as some of the best competitive Karate fighters of their time
Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved
Known as the "Gunners," these students epitomized excellence in competitive Karate, their achievements resonating far beyond the confines of the dojo.
Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved
Despite his dojo's growing reputation, Cofield remained committed to serving his community. He expanded his network to ten dojos across Brooklyn, offering training to students regardless of their financial situation. Cofield's dedication to empowering youth led him to become a symbol of hope for those at risk of falling into gang culture, providing them with a positive outlet through Karate.
Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved
His contributions to the martial arts community were recognized when he was featured in Black Belt Magazine in 1968. Throughout the years, the Tong Dojo thrived under his leadership, becoming known not only for its martial excellence but also for its sense of community.
From the August 1968 Issue of Black Belt Magazine
His student Thomas La Puppet would be the first Black man to grace the cover. In 1994, former students gathered to celebrate the Tong Dojo's 30-year reunion, a testament to the lasting impact of Cofield's teachings. However, tragedy struck on March 22, 2001, when George Cofield passed away at the age of 66.
Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved.
His legacy lives on as a testament to the transformative power of Karate and his unwavering commitment to empowering his community. Through his teachings, Cofield instilled a positive self-image and sense of empowerment in generations of students, leaving a lasting impact on the martial arts world.
Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved.
(Above: Three of the greatest masters of their time. Dr. Moses Powell, Ron Duncan, and George Cofield.)