About the South Bay Shotokan Karate Dojo
The South Bay Shotokan Karate Dojo was founded by members of the Manhattan Beach Dojo in 1982 after it closed down earlier that same year. It continues to be led by instructors Paul Morgan, a 4th degree (Yodan) black belt, Dan Sakurai, 4th degree (Yodan) black belt, Dave Shaver, 2nd degree (Nidan) black belt, Mark Liberatore, 2nd degree (Nidan) black belt, Melissa Acosta-Jensen, 2nd degree (Nidan) black belt and Esteban Ramirez, 2nd degree (Nidan) black belt. All six are direct students of Tsutomu Ohshima, founder of Shotokan Karate of America.
Our members enjoy a direct link to ancient masters of martial arts through Mr. Ohshima and his direct instructor, Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan Karate.
We strive to strengthen body, mind and spirit, perfect character, and faithfully transmit the art to future generations.
Benefits of Karate Practice
Karate can be practiced by everyone at any age for self-defense, to strengthen the entire body, improve balance, efficiency of movement, breathing and overall health. No special equipment is needed.
Karate helps to strengthen the mind, develop courage, fortitude, and the ability to achieve goals.
Karate practice emphasizes spiritual values of courtesy, integrity, humility, justice, honor, and self-control.
The study of karate benefits the student in all areas of their life.
Welcome Newcomers!
We are so glad that you are interested in joining South Bay Shotokan Karate Dojo.
Joining is easy – just visit any of our practices! There is no charge to observe or to practice with us once or twice. After that, if you decide to stay, you must join Shotokan Karate of America ($75 for the remainder of the year). As a member of SKA you will be able to attend any SKA regional, national, and international event open to your rank, and you’ll be able to test for rank twice per year at no charge. Black belt testing is also free, but by invitation only.
