Our Story

About Vamos

Built by athletes, for athletes. We're bringing serious martial arts and fitness training to Chicago.

Meet Our Coaches

World-class instructors who coach beginners, families, and competition athletes with the same care and intensity.

Sensei Jean Carlos Vasquez Celano

Rank: 5th Degree Black Belt

Whether your family is stepping onto the mat for the very first time or training for the national stage, you are in world-class hands with Sensei Jean Carlos.

As a 5th degree black belt, former World Shotokan Champion, and four-time Pan American Champion, Sensei Jean Carlos has competed and won at the absolute highest levels of martial arts. But what truly sets him apart is his rare ability to pass that knowledge down to the next generation of martial artists.

Why Beginners & Families Love Him

Starting karate can be intimidating, but Sensei Jean Carlos makes the dojo feel like home. He cares deeply about the personal growth, confidence, and happiness of every single student. Parents frequently see him pulling a student aside to patiently break down a kata, map out their personal karate goals, or just crack a joke to make them feel comfortable. He blends elite technical training with a fun, supportive atmosphere where new students can thrive and fall in love with the martial arts.

World-Class Training for Advanced Athletes

For our long-time practitioners and competition team, Sensei Jean Carlos offers an unmatched competitive edge. He is a globally recognized elite coach whose credentials include:

  • Top 1% Worldwide An internationally certified coach, a distinction held by fewer than 1% of instructors globally.
  • National Team Experience Former coach for the Ecuadorian National Karate Team and named “Coach of the Year” by the Venezuelan Karate Do Federation.
  • Global Selection One of only 600 coaches worldwide selected for the Pan-American Karate Federation.
  • Champion Maker A member of the Shotokan Karate Do International Federation Technical Commission, an honor reserved strictly for coaches who have successfully trained national champions and continental medalists.

He knows exactly what it takes to build champions. More importantly, he teaches our athletes how to compete with integrity, passion, and resilience, igniting a fire in them to do their absolute best, win or lose.

Beyond the Mat

When he hangs up his black belt for the day, Sensei Jean Carlos is a dedicated family man who loves spending quality time with his amazing wife and two children.

Come Train with Sensei Jean Carlos! Whether you’re here to build focus and confidence or to chase a championship medal, Sensei Jean Carlos is ready to help you reach your goals.

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Sensei Oswaldo Lopez

Rank: 5th Degree Black Belt

From first-day beginners discovering martial arts to seasoned competitors aiming for the podium, students of all levels thrive under the guidance of Sensei Oswaldo.

Bringing more than 35 years of martial arts dedication to our dojo, Sensei Oswaldo’s journey began in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela, where his talent earned him a spot on the prestigious National Team at just 21 years old. Today, as a 5th degree black belt, he combines a lifetime of elite international competitive success with a brilliant mind for teaching.

Why Beginners & Families Love Him

For families just starting their martial arts journey, Sensei Oswaldo is a master at making complex movements accessible and exciting. He holds graduate degrees in both Physical Education and Accounting, meaning he uniquely understands the science of movement, fitness, and structured learning. With over 20 years of teaching experience, his core mission is to foster a lifelong love for karate. He creates a welcoming, high-energy environment where students build coordination, discipline, and self-esteem at their own pace.

World-Class Training for Advanced Athletes

For experienced martial artists looking to sharpen their technique and mental toughness, Sensei Oswaldo provides the elite insights that only a world-tier athlete can offer. His competitive resume features:

  • Global Distinction Placed 6th in the world at the World Karate Championships.
  • Continental Honors A decorated 3-time Pan American Championship medalist.
  • Early Excellence Selected for the Venezuelan National Team as a young adult, proving his foundational mastery early on.
  • Two Decades of Coaching Over 20 years of experience refining the skills of advanced karateka and preparing them for elite competition.

His deep understanding of athletic conditioning and tournament strategy makes him an invaluable asset for any practitioner looking to take their skills to the next level.

Beyond the Mat

When he isn’t sharing his expertise in the dojo, Oswaldo is a passionate, all-around sports enthusiast. He loves staying active and catching a game whenever he can, with a safe bet that he’s cheering for his favorite soccer and basketball teams.

Come Train with Sensei Oswaldo! Whether your goal is to discover a rewarding new passion or to fine-tune your technique under a world-ranked master, Sensei Oswaldo is ready to guide your journey.

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Ready to Meet Us on the Mat?

Your first class is free. No experience needed — just show up and train.

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