Super T Karate proudly serving Grand Rapids since 1992
Super T Karate has Classes in Grand Rapids, Perfect for Kids, Teens, and Adults Martial Arts Lessons.
Our Culture
Super T Karate is a full-service Martial Arts school located on the Northeast side of Grand Rapids Mi. We have been empowering lives through martial arts in Kent County now for almost 30 years. Master Terry “Super T” Gay is an 8th Degree Blackbelt who draws upon his years as a professional fighter and other leadership experience to train students not just for success in the martial arts, but for success in life!
TERRY GAY
INSTRUCTOR/OWNER
Terry Gay is the founder of Super T Karate /Tactical Defense, a school that prides itself on teaching life skills and practical self-defense skills for the real world.
Master Terry regularly participates in professional development courses to improve and increase his skills so that he may offer a better learning experience for his students and clients.
Terry celebrates 50 years in the martial arts. He is one of the highest-ranking black belts under the Martial Arts legend Joe Lewis. His studies include American Karate, Kickboxing, Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan, Tae Kwan Do, MMA, Shorin Ryu, Shootfighting,and Boxing.
MASTER TERRY SUPER T GAY BIO/TRAINING
Martial Arts
- 8th Degree Black Belt
- 50 Years Martial Arts Experience
- P.A.K.A. World Kickboxing Champion
- Certified Cage Combat MMA Referee
- Grand Master Kickboxing Instructor of the year UMAHoF
- Bravery Award Branch County Sheriff Dept
Tactical Training
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NRA Basic Pistol Certified Instructor
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NRA Personal Protection in The Home Instructor
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SRC Defensive Knife Instructor
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SRC Defensive Handgun Instructor
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USCCA Certified Firearms Instructor
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C.R.A.V.A.T – Civilian Response to Active Violence and Trauma
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100+ Hours Force on Force Simulations Scenario Training
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CQT Handgun
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CC Vehicle Tactics
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CC Home Defense
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A3 Room / Building Clearing
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ALICE Certification Training for Business
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Dave Spaulding Handgun Combatives
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Ranger Tactical Handgun
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CQT Shoothouse / Room Clearing
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Certified, Member of the Association of Defensive Shooting Instructors
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Rich Nance WARTAC
Lee Weems PistolCraft
Professional Fighting Career
- World PAKA Middleweight Kickboxing Champion (PAKA)
- #1 World Middleweight Contender (PAKA)
- #3 World Cruiserweight Contender (KICK)
- #5 World Light Heavyweight Contender (PAKA)
- Professional Boxer
Certifications
- Certified Defense Tactic Instructor – Controlled F.O.R.C.E
- Black Belt Schools of America Certified Instructor
- Certified Ground Force Instructor
- Certified SHOOTFIGHTING Instructor
- KMMA Tactical Weapons Instructor
Awards and Recognition
- Master Instructor World Sokeship Council Martial Arts Hall of Fame
- IMMA Hall of Fame
- Ruby Award United Professionals
- Five Star Service Black Belt School of America
- Golden Lifetime Achievement World Karate Union Hall of fame
🥋 Sensei Leah Gay
3rd Degree Black Belt
Head Instructor | Super T Karate
Born into the world of martial arts, Sensei Leah Gay has been kicking, punching, and leading on the mat since she could walk. As the daughter of Master Terry “Super T” Gay, she has spent her entire life surrounded by the spirit of discipline, respect, and excellence that defines the Super T Karate System.
Now a 3rd Degree Black Belt and the Head Instructor at Super T Karate, Sensei Leah embodies the next generation of martial arts leadership. Her energy is electric, her focus unwavering, and her passion for teaching unmatched. Every class she teaches is a reflection of her belief that martial arts are not just about kicks and punches—but about building confidence, focus, leadership, and unstoppable determination.
From our youngest Tigers to advanced black belts, Sensei Leah brings out the best in every student. Her teaching style combines strong technical precision with the motivation and encouragement that make each student feel empowered and unstoppable. She pushes her students to discover their potential—on the mat, in school, and in life.
Leah’s journey is a story of dedication and heart. Having grown up inside the Super T Dojo, she has trained, taught, and competed her way to excellence—earning the respect of students, parents, and instructors alike. Her drive to continue the legacy of Super T Karate inspires everyone around her to reach higher, train harder, and live stronger.
When Sensei Leah steps onto the mat, she doesn’t just teach—she ignites the room. Her energy, positivity, and passion make her one of the most inspiring young martial arts leaders in the region.
She’s not just teaching martial arts—she’s shaping champions for life.
🥊🥋 Shihan Ryan Gay
4th Degree Black Belt
Instructor | Super T Karate
Shihan Ryan Gay has been training in martial arts since he could walk. As the son of Master Terry “Super T” Gay, he grew up on the mat developing a deep passion for martial arts, competition, and teaching.
Now a 4th Degree Black Belt , Shihan Ryan is a skilled and dynamic instructor known for his strong technique, discipline, and high-level striking ability.
His accomplishments include:
🏆 2× IKF World Kickboxing Champion
🏆 2× Arnold Classic Kickboxing Champion
🏆 West Michigan Golden Gloves Boxing Champion
🏆 MGGA Back To Boxing Champion
Sensei Ryan brings real-world experience from the ring into every class, helping students build confidence, skill, and a strong fighting mindset.
He proudly continues the Super T Karate Legacy, inspiring students to train hard, stay disciplined, and become their best both on and off the mat.Shihan