History

Zhang Sah Martial Arts is continually being shaped by its commitment to carrying out its mission.  Today, Zhang Sah continues to evolve as a multi–department wellness organization offering an array of innovative martial arts study curricula, child and youth development, and educational programming.

Milestones:

In 1995 Gold Medal Karate is founded by Master Salvatore J Sandone at the Capitola recreation Center at 9^th and Federal Streets; Philadelphia, PA

Due to accelerated class growth by 1996, the school is relocated to 928 Christian Street; Philadelphia, PA

By 1997, kickboxing and cross martial arts training programs, involving Tae Kwon Do, Karate, and Aikido are offered as primary training curricula

In 1998, Gold Medal Karate relocated its school for the second time, due to program expansion, to 530 Bainbridge Street, Philadelphia, PA

April 1998 – Gold Medal Karate offers a PA Department of Public Welfare licensed martial art after school program

June 1998 – Gold Medal Karate operates its first Summer Camp season

October – Gold Medal Karate incorporates as a 501(C) 3 non-profit organization

By 2001, Gold Medal Karate designs and builds a second dojo at its 530 Bainbridge location

In 2002 Kodokan Judo is introduced to and taught at Gold Medal Karate

The trade name of “Zhang Sah” is adopted in 2003

May 2003 – After-school program is awarded national accreditation from the National After-School Association (NAA) and becomes the first and currently the only NAA accredited martial arts program in the United States of America.

June 2003 – A second school opens at 3901 Conshohocken Ave, Philadelphia, PA

The year 2005 represents the first class of fully matriculated students who earned black belts through the after school program

In 2006 Master Sandone introduces the Budo curriculum