The American Fighting Arts Federation (“AFAF”) was founded in 1985, by Mr. Richard Tirschel. AFAF has its origins in American Tang Soo Do (specifically the Chuck Norris System). Since 1985, the system has primarily been a blend of Korean Tang Soo Do, Japanese and Okinawan Karate.

The Western Region of the American Fighting Arts Federation came into being in 2021, as school owners came together wanting to work together and be a part of AFAF’s rich heritage. The Western Region has welcomed schools and practitioners in many arts including Tang Soo Do, Tae Kwon Do, Goju Ryu, Shorin Ryu, and Brazilian Jujitsu.