Great Grand Master Tony Thompson was the Co-Founder of West Coast World Martial Arts Association (WCWMA) along with Great Grand Master Ernie Reyes Sr..
Great Grand Master Tony Thompson stood as a pillar in the American martial arts community, recognized as one of the founding Grand Masters of the West Coast World Martial Arts Association (WCWMA). Holding the esteemed rank of 10th Degree Black Belt, Thompson has dedicated more than five decades to the development of martial artists across the U.S., blending discipline, education, and community impact.
In the mid-1970s, Thompson co-founded what would become WCWMA—initially named West Coast Tae Kwon Do—alongside his longtime friend and martial arts brother, Grand Master Ernie Reyes Sr. The two met while studying at San Jose State University, where Thompson pursued a degree in psychology and Reyes in business. Under the guidance of their shared instructor, Grand Master Dan Choi, they launched their first martial arts school around 1975 or 1978 (sources vary), laying the foundation for what would become one of the most influential martial arts organizations in North America.
Legacy of WCWMA
With Thompson’s leadership, WCWMA evolved from a local school into a nationwide movement, with 32 to 40 affiliate schools across the United States. More than a fighting system, WCWMA became a complete personal development model, teaching martial arts as a vehicle for mental, emotional, and spiritual growth. The curriculum, designed in part by Thompson, incorporates a blend of Taekwondo, Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, Filipino Escrima, grappling, and modern self-defense, creating well-rounded martial artists and empowered individuals.
Thompson also helped shape the innovative West Coast World Action Team, a world-renowned martial arts performance group born out of WCWMA’s demonstration roots. This team has inspired generations through its dynamic presentations and commitment to excellence.
Honors and Community Recognition
Great Grand Master Thompson’s contributions extend far beyond the dojo. He has been widely recognized for his community impact and leadership, receiving several prestigious awards, including:
- Citizen of the Year – Milpitas Board of Education
- Martin Luther King Jr. Award – Santa Clara County
- Leadership Award – Harvard Business School
These honors reflect his ongoing commitment to character development, youth mentorship, and educational innovation.
Visionary Leadership
As a guiding force in WCWMA’s teaching methodology and curriculum development, Thompson remained at the forefront of martial arts education. He was widely respected for his insights into student engagement, leadership training, and life-skill integration within martial arts programs.
More than a co-founder, Great Grand Master Tony Thompson was a visionary whose influence has touched thousands of lives. Through his work, martial arts have become a bridge—not only to physical mastery, but to community building, personal growth, and lifelong leadership.
Great Grandmaster Tony Thompson passed away in his sleep during the night of July 24, 2025 after a prolonged illness.
Respects
WCWMA Association Family,
With deep sorrow and compassion, I share the heartbreaking news that my martial arts soul brother, Great Grand Master Tony Thompson, passed away last night, July 24, at 10:15 PM.
He has been suffering and is now resting in peace.
GGM Tony was more than a martial artist, he was a warrior of the highest spirit, a leader, a brother, a loving father and a light for our WCWMA Association family.
GGM Tony and I have been connected as ONE, for over five decades, 57 years, side by side, sharing our sweat, blood and tears.
We forged a path of discipline, love, and purpose that shaped thousands of lives across generations.
In the Buddhist tradition, they believe that the spirit continues beyond the body like a flame passed from candle to candle, never extinguished.
And in the Christian faith, they hold that GGM Tony now rests in eternal peace, embraced by God’s grace. GGM Tony and I have respected both faiths.
His body may be gone, but his soul lives on in each of us who carry his teachings, his spirit, and his love.
Let us honor his legacy by continuing to walk the WCWMA Black Belt and Mastery System that we created, with humility, compassion, and strength.
Please keep his family in your prayers and hearts during this sacred time.
With love, respect, and Eternal Gratitude,
GGM KJN Ernie Reyes
On behalf of the WCWMA Association Family
POM – Pursuit of Mastery POM – Peace of Mind!”
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It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of GG Master Tony Thompson, whose presence inspired us all. His infectious smile and generous hugs made everyone feel special. A revered mentor, friend, and paternal figure, he will be truly missed. RIP GGMaster Tony. ~ WestCoast Modesto on Facebook
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Rest in Power and Peace Grand Master Tony Thompson 
… passed in his sleep last night.
Co-founder of the famous Ernie Reyes World West Coast Association. A champion, mentor, leader, father and friend.
KJn Tony was THE ROCK and Muscle to make it happen for akJN Ernie Reyes and everyone else. He meant business but was always a big teddy bear. I loved him, he was very kind to my team and I all of those West Coast years. He lived a Masterful life and his influence will carry on World wide.
Love and respect sir ~ Joey Perry on Facebook
