In 1988, my mother bought me the book "The secret of inner strength: My story by Chuck Norris. I read eagerly about the man I would come to admire and respect.
Little did I know, that exactly 20 years later I would be coaching the Los Angeles Stars for his World Combat League. The team he conceptualized in the late 60's that got derailed due to his world renowned acting career.
Many people have their own Chuck Norris stories, as he was known to millions and had personal interactions with thousands.
The older I get, the harder it is for me to embrace the ego and braggadocia. I have however been reminded that it has value for the inspiration of others, so here is a post of my experience with a legend.
Having coached the Los Angeles Stars afforded me many opportunities to spend time with him. Though his life choices brought him success, fame and wealth, he was always one of the most respectful and down to earth people I've ever met. I've had the opportunity to be with him in various settings, over dinner, in large groups, privately, while we were on T.V. and have also held hands in prayer with him and his lovely wife Gena O'Kelley Norris at a hospital in support of one of our teams fighters Jesus Vasquez during a life threatening event. I can say he was no different in any setting. He was simply a good man.
Knowing him gave me the opportunity to coach the team he dreamed up so many decades before. It also allowed me to coach some of the greatest fighters in the world. Because the Los Angeles Stars was the name he gave the first team he chose to represent this new martail arts "TEAM" fighting concept, I felt particular pressure to make sure I did everything in my power to best represent that team name. With the help of my wife Tara Van Deusen, Raymond Daniel , Jack Felton, Jason Bourelly, Brandon Hastings, Alicia 'Slick' Ashley, Jessica Covarrubias Castillo, Jesus Vasquez, Donald Vickers, and all other LA Stars, we were able to be the only team that was undefeated in the league and win the only Championship in the leagues short existence. I believe had the world not gotten hit by such a devastation recession in 2008, you would still be watching the WCL on t.v.
🥋 Honoring a Legend – Chuck Norris
Today we honor the life and legacy of Chuck Norris, a true martial artist whose character, discipline, and integrity inspired generations around the world. His impact goes far beyond the screen… he set the standard for what it means to live with strength, humility, and purpose.
We feel especially grateful that Mr. V had the opportunity to know Mr. Norris and his wife while coaching the Los Angeles Stars to their championships. Fighting under his leadership in the WCL league was a true highlight for Mrs. V. Ms. Trias, and Mr. Strahan too had an experience and honor they will never forget while getting to fight for him.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones. His legacy will continue to live on through martial art students around the world .
#PowerOfOne #ChuckNorris #MartialArtsLegend #LegacyOfStrength #RespectAndHonor
Couldn't be more proud of my son. Training since he was 3 years young and just passed his last test before going for his adult Black Belt next August. Persistence, commitment, discipline and showing up, continue to be a few ingredients needed for personal accomplishments in all areas of life. Keep at it Son! I'm looking forward to a family of Black Belts.
Big shout out to the team that has helped get him there! I appreciate you! 👊☝️💪
And like that 🫰 , 25 years married!
Proud of how much we have accomplished since this day, from family to business to personal!
Thankful to have been your partner in all ways!
143 @colinvandeus
One Last Seminar Together 🥋❤️
Last night, we had the joy of teaching one final self-defense seminar with Katana before she heads off to New York in just a couple of weeks.
When we opened Power of One Headquarters decades ago, we never imagined all the hidden gifts it would bring us and our kids. Over the years, they didn’t just train, they grew .
From competition days in their youth to earning their Black Belts to working part-time through high school, they’ve gained so much more than just martial arts skills:
✅ Confidence
✅ Leadership
✅ Communication
✅ Work ethic
✅ The ability to connect and empower others
And while their futures may take them in different directions, I’m pretty sure the memories of Saturday morning Peewee classes, summer camps, ninja nights, tournaments and community self-defense seminars will stay with them forever.
We’ve been truly blessed to share the mats with all of three of them and last night was one more reminder of how special that time has been.
#PowerOfOneFamily #ProudParentMoment #LeadershipThroughService
From Vision to Reality!
Tonight, Colin and I had the joy of visiting three incredible Power of One Black Belt tests and felt all the positive proud vibes.
Watching our once students turned head instructors lead with passion, purpose, and power reminded us just how far this dream has come. What began as a vision nearly 30 years ago is now a living, breathing legacy being built and carried forward by some of the most committed and inspiring leaders we could ever hope for.
To watch our Black Belts in action growing the next generation of Power of One Black Belts… it’s the ripple effect in action. The energy, the unity, the skill, and the heart within each team was something special and we were honored to witness it.
To all the incredible Po1 Teams:
You are doing phenomenal work.
Your leadership is strong, your students are thriving, and the future of Power of One is brighter than ever because of YOU.
Good skills to everyone as testing continues. 👊☝️
#PowerOfOneBlackBelts #NextGenerationLeaders #GoodSkills #StrongerTogether
Senior Year in Style ✨
This weekend, our beautiful daughter Katana celebrated her senior year prom💃
As parents, we’ve been incredibly blessed to raise three amazing kids, each with their own unique spark. Watching Katana step into this season of life—with grace, strength, and joy—has been truly inspiring.
Watching her genuine happiness and excitement for this next chapter while celebrating with her tribe, reminded us how hard she has worked and how proud we are of the young woman she’s become.
We’re so thankful we got to play a small part in her evening of fun and unforgettable memories.
Keep shining, Katana. 🌟
#SeniorProm #ProudParents #GratefulHeart #ClassOf2025 #PromMagic
Couldn't be more proud of this kid for being the only teen we saw in the 34 days hiking the 515 miles across Spain. It wasn't easy but we laughed most of the way. Great job Logan!
#caminodesantiago #prouddad
