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Jack Stern

Nationality
usaUnited States
Position
Founder

Grand Master Jack Stern
Founder of (WOMA) World Organization of Martial Arts

Born as Jackie Albert Stern, affectionately known as “Papasan,” Grand Master Jack Stern was a legendary figure in the martial arts world. His journey began in 1947 during his service in the U.S. military, where he first trained in Korean Yudo under Sensei Tae Ju Chung while stationed in Chinhae, Korea. His passion for martial arts led him across the globe, training in the Philippines, Okinawa, and Japan. During this time, Stern trained under renowned masters such as O’Sensei Yamaguchi Gogen in Goju Ryu Karate, Mifune Kyuzo at the Kodokan in Judo, and Grandmaster Mas Oyama in Kyokushinkai Karate at the Tokyo Hombu.

In 1956, after being discharged from the military, Stern remained in Japan, living with the Otani Family and continuing his martial arts training. However, due to his mother’s illness, he returned to the United States in 1958, where his martial arts career would reach new heights. By 1960, he had opened the famous “Paja Dojo” in Brooklyn, New York, and established the Korean Yudo Association, which eventually evolved into the World Organization of Martial Arts (WOMA).

Throughout the 1960s, Grandmaster Stern worked tirelessly to build connections between martial arts communities in both the United States and abroad. He was known for hosting renowned martial artists like Mas Oyama and Robert Trias and for participating in significant events such as the 1964 World’s Fair, where he showcased martial arts demonstrations alongside Grandmaster Naraki Hara. His Paja Dojo became a hub for elite martial artists, and Stern’s influence spread across various disciplines, including Judo, Karate, and Stick Fighting.

Over the years, Grandmaster Stern’s contributions were recognized worldwide. He united martial artists from over 25 countries, adhering to a philosophy of non-political, non-profit brotherhood. His dedication to promoting authentic martial arts education was reflected in his motto, “Networking with the best martial artists in the world.” The KYHA, later becoming WOMA, maintained its integrity by thoroughly screening applicants and ensuring the legitimacy of all ranks and certifications.

In 1998, Grandmaster Stern made a significant return to Korea, where he renewed friendships and was promoted to 8th Dan. He also played a pivotal role in spreading martial arts to the Middle East, where he was honored with titles like “The Living Legend” during a visit to Saudi Arabia in 2000, upon invitation from Prince Fahad and Royal Sheik Ali-Al Atiq.

His lifetime of achievements included numerous Hall of Fame inductions, including the World Head of Family Soke Council, the Christian Martial Arts Hall of Fame, and the International Circle of Masters. He was also recognized for his outstanding contributions by various martial arts organizations worldwide.

In 2009, Grandmaster Stern established the International Hosharafu Federation (IHF), further expanding his legacy. After his passing in 2012, WOMA and IHF continued to honor him as their lifetime president, and the two organizations merged their missions. Since 2017, the United World Mixed Martial Arts Federation has also partnered with WOMA, further solidifying Grandmaster Stern’s enduring impact on the martial arts community.

Grandmaster Stern’s legacy as a pioneer and visionary leader in martial arts continues to inspire martial artists worldwide, with WOMA standing as a testament to his life’s work in uniting martial artists across disciplines and countries.

Today, the World Organization of Martial Arts (WOMA) stands as a testament to Grandmaster Jack Stern’s remarkable career and contributions to martial arts. His vision of unity across disciplines and countries continues to inspire martial artists globally, ensuring that his legacy as a pioneer and visionary leader endures for generations to come.

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