Our Dojo
Shotokan Karate Center (SKC), an internationally known organization, was established in Northern Virginia in 1982. Our organization was the representative of the Japan Karate Association (JKA), known as the JKA of VA, until SKC left the JKA organization in 2006. With Master Enoeda’s blessing, Mazhari Sensei chose the SKC name in continuity of Master Keinosuke Enoeda’s legacy and in memory of Sensei’s years of training at the famed Marshall Street Dojo (London, England) of the same name. . In 2014, the SKC headquarters was re-located to Rapid City, South Dakota.
Shotokan karate, the art of empty hand fighting, is a traditional style of Japanese karate founded by Master Gichin Funakoshi in the early 20th century. Shotokan karate is scientifically proven to provide aerobic, anaerobic, callisthenic and isometric exercise via systematic training.
Classes are offered for beginners to advanced students of all ages and genders. These exhilarating, rejuvenating classes promote overall health and well-being, and are designed for dedicated students who seek to learn karate through intense, traditional training. Amongst countless benefits gained through regular training, the most evident are:
*mental & physical discipline *improved concentration and motor skills
*taking advantage of the body’s natural power *self-awareness, mental alertness and preparedness
*self-confidence and self-control *weight control
*stress management & relaxation
SKC is committed to helping individuals reach their highest potential through the true art of Shotokan Karate. Training under a master like Mazhari Sensei not only fortifies the body and mind, but turns the student’s attention inward, setting the student on the path of self-improvement. In the words of Mazhari Sensei, the true art of Shotokan Karate is the art of finding the real you.
SKC is known for the diversity of its students. The flags below represent members of this organization.
In addition to our regularly scheduled classes SKC offers:
Private lessons, upon request, for students of all ranks. Students may take advantage of private lessons to meet specific goals such as kata & kumite improvement or exam/tournament preparation, etc.
Short term, intensive courses and clinics are available, upon request, for individuals and groups interested in self-defense, supplementary conditioning for athletic teams, and physical conditioning for law enforcement.
Instructor Training Courses- C, B, & A class. These courses are designed for experienced individuals who seek international certification; courses are open to dedicated individuals who have a commitment to furthering their own knowledge and preserving the true art and spirit of Shotokan Karate. Instructors from all traditional Japanese styles are welcome and encouraged to apply. The instructor training course consists of three classes, beginning with the C-class. Applicants must have a minimum of 15 years of active experience for entry into the C-class course (apprenticeships are available to individuals short of the minimum requirement). The B and A class courses have their own set of requirements with regards to rank and experience. Course acceptance and the level of entry will be commensurate with the applicant’s rank and experience- high rank and many years of experience may garner immediate acceptance into the B-class. A-class applicants MUST have successfully completed the B-class course and met all rank and active experience requirements. Application to the course does not guarantee acceptance. Detailed information about the SKC Instructor Training Program should be obtained, in person, at Shotokan Karate Center.
Exams at SKC are a learning experience for all in attendance, not just the examinees. The SKC Kyu Examination is held every three months and the Dan Examination takes place twice a year. The exam reflects our organization’s incredibly high standards. Qualified students, who have trained regularly and have been approved for examination, must demonstrate that they have met the standard, both technically and with regard to the development of their character. There is nothing superficial about exams at SKC and the exam is not a formality; students of Shotokan Karate Center, under the tutelage of SKC instructors, work very hard and truly earn their rank.
The children who train at Shotokan Karate Center are held to the very same high standard as adult members. It is for this reason that SKC does not offer separate classes for adults and children. Children must be approved through the SKC screening process; youngsters who are deemed mentally, physically, and emotionally fit for training will be accepted to Shotokan Karate Center. SKC students, young and old, are known for their discipline and dedication to training. This spirit is a reflection of the famed intensity and rigor of Mazhari Sensei’s trainings and Sensei’s emphasis on the ultimate goal of seeking perfection of character. 
The Shotokan Karate Center Advisory Board was established on September 12, 2007. The board meets monthly in order to address the affairs of the organization, including questions, concerns, and suggestions by board members and other affiliates. Board members include SKC Chief Instructor, Mazhari Sensei, and a number of senior ranking students. Current board members include Shohra Ruyan, Parastou Ghazvini, Golnesa AsheghAli, Greg Davis and Spiro Roiniotis.