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Goshukan Karate Academy HQ's nafudakake proudly displays the names of our black belts in the ACT

A Moment of Pride and Celebration

Five of our dedicated karatekas were presented with their official Seiwakai and JKF Gojukai black belt grade certifications.

It was the early hours of Saturday, 6 July 2024, when seven of our members set off for a special training journey. With the clock striking 4:00 am, we gathered, ready to make our way to the Goshukan Karate Academy headquarters dojo in Seven Hills, NSW. The drive was long, but the excitement and anticipation of the day ahead kept our spirits high. Arriving well before the 9:00 am start time, we had ample opportunity to settle in and prepare for the training session ahead.

The first half of our 3-hour training session was dedicated to enhancing our technique and execution, reinforcing our understanding of the Goju-Ryu foundation. The meticulous training pushed us to refine our skills and deepen our knowledge of the core principles that define our karate practice.

Following a short break, we divided into two groups to concentrate on specific kata. The first group dedicated themselves to Saifa and Seiyunchin kata, while the second group focused on Shisochin and Sepai kata. This arrangement facilitated a more personalised coaching from our mentors, Glenn Stephenson Shihan, Stacey Karetsian Shihan, and Michael Patrick Shihan, ensuring each karateka received tailored guidance to help enhance their skills and understanding of the different forms.

The session concluded with a moment of pride and celebration. Five of our members were awarded their official Seiwakai Goju-Ryu and Japan Karate-Do Federation Gojukai black belt certifications. Mick, Biensy, Justin, and Pat received their Shodan certification in Seiwakai, a recognition of their hard work and dedication since their testing in November last year. Ben Sensei was awarded his Sandan JKF Gojukai certification, a testament to his expertise and commitment, following his test in Osaka, Japan last August.

This trip to the Goshukan Karate Academy headquarters was more than just a training session; it was a significant milestone in our ongoing journey of mastery in Goju-Ryu karate. The dedication and achievements of our members inspire us all at Goshukan Karate Academy ACT.

We extend our gratitude to Stacey Karetsian Shihan for hosting this enriching session at his dojo and congratulate our members on their well-deserved certifications. Together, we continue to strive for excellence, upholding the principles and traditions of Goju-Ryu karate.

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Student and Parent Testimonials

What our members say about us.

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Sensei Ben and Justin were great with the kids. They were firm but not too harsh and were able to keep the kids in line. The kids still had a great time learning. Thanks Sensei Ben!
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Tian Shiu
31 July 2024
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The club is led by Sensei Ben, a great karate practitioner, a very knowledgeable and experienced instructor with strong passion for karate and teaching karate.
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Tri Nguyen
30 July 2024
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Sensei Ben is an incredible teacher, always providing guidance and encouragement to his students. My son has been going to his classes for the last one year and loves it! The atmosphere in the classes is friendly and inclusive. With a number of classes to choose from, sessions by the lake in summer and clear progression through the different levels, karate with Sensei Ben is teaching my son the value of discipline and the importance of showing up. Highly recommend this!
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Padmapriya Muralidharan
30 July 2024
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Every since my granddaughter started Karate at Goshukan Academy her confidence has become more positive she loves getting up on Saturday getting ready for more learning her inspiration is so much better now thank you for teaching her how to become a better person
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Linda Seal
30 July 2024
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It's been a great karate journey for my kids, learning discipline, self-defence, or what's left and what's right, and building confidence and fitness. All important life skills for kids. It's a great environment to start karate. Highly recommended.
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Eric Li
30 July 2024
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I have been practicing Karate with my son at this dojo for over a year and have enjoyed every single bit of it. Sensei Ben and Justin have been always good at what they are doing and are very helpful teachers. The content of classes is designed well and the class is well paced. The assistant teachers are attentive and nice. I reckon the mix classes on Monday and Friday nights are the best for families! I find it a good opportunity to get exercise myself and a chance to show commitment and hard work to my child instead of talking about it. Happy to recommend this place to any family.
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Jing Zhu
30 July 2024
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Ben Brillante and his team are great teachers and very supportive. It is a very friendly dojo where all students and black belts know each other. Coffee after training on a Saturday morning is always a great chat! People of all ages from small kids up are welcome. Everything you learn is always explained about how it can be applied in a practical way for self defence. I am one of the oldest students and have only been training for about 6 months. I am feeling far fitter and more flexible and would highly recommend Goshukan Karate Academy!!!
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Mark Williamson
30 July 2024
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I have trained with Sensei Ben on multiple occasions, and each time he has shown to be a proficient practitioner and competent instructor. I encourage anyone in the area to consider his dojo. Context: I am not a student, but another martial arts school owner.
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Reece Cummings
5 March 2024
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Exceptional Karate Dojo Transforming Lives! We've been part of Goshukan Karate Academy for nearly a year now, and the positive impact it has had on my daughter's life is truly remarkable. Sensei Ben is not just an expert in karate but also an outstanding mentor who exudes professionalism in every aspect. Under his guidance, my daughter has not only honed her physical strength and self-defence skills but has also experienced a significant boost in confidence. The supportive and nurturing environment of the dojo has played a pivotal role in shaping her personality positively and it stands out as the only after-school activity that has made such a profound difference for us (and we've tried many!). Our heartfelt gratitude to the entire team for creating a space where personal growth is not just encouraged but celebrated. This dojo truly deserves its spot among the best, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a transformative and enriching martial arts journey.
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Jenny Shaviv
13 January 2024