Wado Kai Wado is a Japanese karate style founded in 1939 by Master Hironori Otsuka. It combines Master Otsuka's early experience with classical jujutsu (also known as jujitsu) with the shotokan karate he learned as a student of Gichin Funakoshi's. Wado, meaning the "way of peace/harmony", is one of the four major styles of karate in Japan. It, perhaps, is the purest form of karate-do (the way of the empty hands). Trained in classical bujutsu (the techniques of the samurai), Master Otsuka applied this outlook and experience to his teachings. Some of the harsher resistive or hard contact elements of sparring technique, typical of many karate styles, are not present in Wado. Master Otsuka rejected hardening certain parts of the body, such as hand conditioning, as useless preparation. Hanshi Masaru Shintani was one of Master Otsuka's senior students. At the time of his death, he was the head of Wado Kai karate for North America. The aim of Wado karate is not merely perfection of the physical techniques of self-defense, but the development of a mind that is tranquil yet alive, able to react intuitively to any situation. In Wado, as skill and knowledge are acquired through training and concentrated effort, the student is expected to develop inner strength and calmness of character, as well as the virtues of self-control, respect for others, and true humility. Karate-do for Master Otsuka was primarily a spiritual discipline. Basic techniques - punching, kicking, blocking, striking with open hand, joint twisting, and trapping techniques - kata (a sequence of techniques done in certain order against imaginary opponents), and prearranged and free style sparring comprise the training foundation of this style. Equally fundamental to Wado is taisabaki, body shifting to avoid the full brunt of an attack, a technique derived from Japanese swordsmanship. Kumite (sparring) is usually judged on a point system. One referee and four corner judges determine which techniques are given a point. In free sparring, there is no contact allowed to the head, below the waist except for foot sweeps, or to the spine. Only light to medium contact is allowed to the torso. Attacks to the head and torso can all score points in a tournament. Therefore, Wado karate-ka tend to fight with explosive, close movements with an emphasis on well-controlled techniques.

Shintani Team Committee Member and Team Staff Sensei Michel Gosselin Head Coach Sensei Brodie Hicks Assistant Coach Sensei Colin Frans Team Manager

Shintani Team Gallery (Coming Soon)

Main Menu Students Events - Tournaments Events - Gradings P-K Videos P-K App Forms Events - Competition Regional Provincial National Students Shintani Para-Karate Students Coming shortly Events - Competition Events - Competition Opportunities COMPETITION OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH A DISABILITY Karate for persons with a disability can be rewarding at the grassroots and participation only level. For some karateka, participating in competitions offers an opportunity to face challenges on the playing field, the competition ring or the tatami. Karateka with a disability are welcome to participate in mainstream divisions and/or para-only divisions. This document will provide information for para-only opportunities, is not exhaustive and is evergreen. DEFINITIONS Open Participation: All competitors are invited to participate Qualification Required: Competitors must qualify to be able to compete MODALITIES 1. Intellectually Impaired – Inclusive a. All athletes with various intellectual impairments 2. Intellectually Impaired – Limited a. Athletes with an intellectual impairment IQ <75 b. Athletes with Down syndrome 3. Wheelchair 4. Visually impaired 5. Mobility Impaired PARTICIPATION Dojo and Club level Integrated classes and/or exclusive classes Events - Tournaments Events - Tournaments Regional Open Participation SWKKF club tournaments – most clubs offer divisions for persons with a disability Modalities – all Event(s) – Kata, sometimes kumite and shindo Provincial Open Participation SWKKF club tournaments – most clubs offer divisions for persons with a disability Modalities – all Event(s) – Kata, sometimes kumite and shindo Provincial/Territorial Karate Canada member organizations Modalities – 2, 3, 4, 5 Event(s) – Kata National Open Participation SWKKF club tournaments – most clubs offer divisions for persons with a disability Modalities – all Event(s) – Kata, sometimes kumite and shindo Qualification Req uired Karate Canada National Tournament Must be a member of a Provincial/Territorial Team Modalities – 2, 3, 4, 5 Event(s) – Kata International Open Participation US-Open and Junior International Cup Modalities – all Event(s) – Kata, weapons, sometimes kumite I-Karate Global Modalities – all Event(s) – Kata International Karate Union Modalities – all Event(s) – Kata WTKA Modalities – to be confirmed Event(s) – to be confirmed NASKA Modalities – to be confirmed Event(s) – to be confirmed Qualification Required PKF Pan American Karate Championship Must be a member of the Karate Canada National Team to compete Modalities – 2, 3, 4 Event(s) – Kata WKF World Karate Championship Must be a member of the Karate Canada National Team to compete Modalities – 2, 3, 4 Event(s) – Kata ADDITIONAL INFORMATION International Para-Karate C ompetition Opportunities Click above Events - Gradings Events - Gradings SWKKF Black Belt Grading Application Form SWKKF Kyu Belt Grading Sheet Para-Karate Black Belt Gradings Guidelines and Recommendations P-K Videos Para-Karate Videos These are the first of several videos to be added to this section in due course. Click on URL below to connect with video currently hosted on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zFiiLiRcqc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Zx5fLNj434 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mH4cntmVPCQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3MLPoY0_Z0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ot_b00hVlmc P-K App Forms

Part 1 of 2 - Top of Page Pol. 10 Shintani Team Pol. 6 Judging Training Pol. 11 Election Procedures Bottom of Page Pol.1 Constitution / Bylaws Pol. 7 Scholarships Pol. 2 Standards / Ethics Pol. 3 Dojo Etiquette Pol. 8 Harmonizer Pol. 9 Website Pol. 4 Tournament Rules Pol. 5 Communications Policies, Procedures & Manuals -- Disclaimer This website provides a central location for approved policies and procedures currently in effect. They are for use within the SWKKF. Given the significant amount of material available, and for ease of use, it is presented in two parts. Part 1 - This screen - Policies 1 - 11 Part 2 - Click here - Policies 12 - 21 Pol.1 Constitution / Bylaws Policy 1 - Constitution and Bylaws The fundamental principles and established precedents according to which the SWKKF is acknowledged to be governed. Mail The requested document is open to registered black belts within the SWKKF. For more information please e-mail the President by clicking the email icon. Pol. 2 Standards / Ethics Policy 2 - Standards and Ethics Documentation on ethical protocol for the Shintani Wado Kai and its members. Pol. 2 Pol. 3 Dojo Etiquette Dojo Etiquette Manual It is generally understood that karate begins and ends with reihoh (etiquette). The formalized manners and mental attitudes that should be followed have been developed over many generations. This formality is not imposed to force any sense of hierarchy or respect in the students. That should already be present. The main function of the rules of etiquette is to guide behavior and to ensure the safety of all participants. Pol. 3 Pol. 4 Tournament Rules Policy 4 - Tournament Rules and Regulations This policy is to standardize the way tournaments are conducted by the SWKKF. Pol. 4 Pol. 5 Communications Policy 5 - Communications within the SWKKF This policy is for the protocol for the dissemination of information within the SWKKF. Pol. 5 Pol. 6 Judging Training Judging Training Manuals This policy is to standardize the way tournaments are conducted in the SWKKF. SWKKF Judging Training Committee Mandate Mandate Phase 1 The committee members will provide knowledge and advice in a constructive manner to train registered members of the SWKKF in the standardized procedures for Table Work, Corner Judges and Centre Referee protocols. Phase 1 Manual Training Video Mandate Phase 2 The committee members will work with the Tournament Rules Committee to identify and develop teaching tools and a training program for registered members of the SWKKF in the standardized procedures for certified Judges and Referees to consistently and accurately identify calls in the tournament ring. Phase 2 Manual Pol. 7 Scholarships Policy 7 - SWKKF Scholarship This policy is to outline the rules and regulations of the SWKKF scholarship process and template applications. The requested document is open to registered black belts within the SWKKF. For more information please click on the Policy 7 grey box or e-mail the Secretary General by clicking the SWKKF icon. e-mail Pol. 7 Pol. 8 Harmonizer Policy 8 - SWKKF Harmonizer This policy is to outline the workflow of the SWKKF official newsletter. Pol. 8 Pol. 9 Website Policy 9 - SWKKF Website This policy is for the conduct for the website committee. Pol. 9 Pol. 10 Shintani Team Policy 10 - Shintani Team This policy is for the conduct of the Shintani Team processes and procedures. Pol. 10 Pol. 11 Election Procedures Policy 11 - SWKKF Election Procedures This policy covers the election procedures from the club Level to and including the election of the provincial representatives who constitute the Federal Council. The requested document is open to registered black belts within the SWKKF. For more information please e-mail the Secretary General by clicking the SWKKF icon. Bottom of Page e-mail

Shintani Wado Kai Senate The Senate is the governing body for the Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation. Prior to the death of Hanshi Shintani, the organization was primarily directed by Hanshi Shintani himself with the assistance of the senate. The senate consists of senior ranking members initially appointed by Hanshi Shintani. The Senate held its inaugural meeting on November 1, 1997 in Toronto. At that time Hanshi Shintani signed the new constitution and named Sensei Denis Labbé his successor. Sensei Denis Labbé now heads the Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation assisted by the Senate members. Denis Labbé - Kudan (9th Dan) President "Sensei Shintani's influence, changed my life. His impact on me not only benefitted me physically, it helped develop my confidence and to overcome my shyness as a young student to take on a leadership role. Sensei has taught me honor, humility, loyalty, compassion and commitment. In return I dedicate my life to Sensei Shintani and to his organization." - Sensei Denis Labbé More Neil Prime - Hachidan (8th Dan) Director "Other than my own father, Sensei Shintani has been the most influential man in my life." - Sensei Neil Prime More Shelley McGregor - Shichidan (7th Dan) Director "One of the things I remember most of Sensei Shintani visits was how kind and respectful he was to everyone. He always spoke so highly of Otsuka Sensei with admiration, loyalty, fondness and respect. He expressed that his teachings were that of Otsuka Sensei and it was his legacy he was preserving in his teachings. As SWKKF members we must do the same and maintain Sensei Shintani’s legacy. We can do this by keeping his spirit alive through our teachings and demonstration of good character." - Sensei Shelley McGregor More Bruce Perkins - Kudan (9th Dan) Senate Advisor “Karate becomes who you are and how you live your life – you cannot be a good black belt on the floor and change the minute you leave the dojo. A good black belt stands for so many things that are not related to the dojo” – Sensei Bruce Perkins More Danny McCoy - Kudan (9th Dan) Senate Advisor "Sensei Shintani has given me clear direction and instruction which has given me the ability to reach and continue to develop karate the way Mr. Shintani would like." - Sensei Danny McCoy More Ron Mattie - Kudan (9th Dan) Chief Instructor "When you come to a difficult time in your life and have to decide how to deal with it, put yourself 20 years from now and look back at this moment, then ask yourself "how do I wish I had dealt with it then" " - Sensei Ron Mattie More Michel Gosselin - Shichidan (7th Dan) Director "I am so grateful to have met Sensei Shintani and to be a part of what he has created. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that an organization like the SWKKF existed. All across this country we find passionate people who continue to teach Sensei’s important lessons of kindness, humility and respect, through the practice of karate." - Sensei Michel Gosselin More Brian Julien - Godan (5th Dan) Director “I was lucky enough to train with Sensei Shintani in my early formative karate years. I was always amazed that such a quiet, unassuming gentleman could demonstrate his techniques with such explosive speed and power, only to transform back into his humble self moments after the demonstration. It truly was inspirational.” More Brad Cosby - Kudan (9th Dan) Senate Advisor "Sensei Shintani never looked at karate as a "that's all there is, it's a static art", it was always evolving, changing for the better." Sensei Brad Cosby More Brian Chmay - Hachidan (8th Dan). Senate Advisor "I was very fortunate to train directly under Sensei Shintani. He inspired us not so much by his words but of his presence on the dojo. However, one of his quotes I that I will always remember is "You are not finished when you lose, you are finished when you quit." As a young Shodan, I felt that this statement was very important to help me become a better black belt, to strive harder, give your best effort in everything you do and to persevere. Now I realize it was meant as a guide in how to live your life and become the best person you could be. This is a philosophy I like to instill into all of my students." - Sensei Brian Chmay More Jim Atkinson - Hachidan (8th Dan) Vice President & Secretary "Mr. Shintani touched my life the moment I met him with his kindness & gentleness. When I seen him perform I was amazed and will be forever grateful to have his influence in my life." - Sensei Jim Atkinson More Darren Humphries - Shichidan (7th Dan) Director "Sensei Shintani and his senior students have influenced my life since I started Shintani Wado Kai. I am forever grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from Sensei Shintani during his spring and fall visits to the prairies. His presence in the dojo was unbelievable. When you watched him demonstrate techniques, his power and explosiveness was incredible. In the evenings he captivated everyone by telling stories about his life. Sensei built an amazing organization and I so proud and humbled to be part of it." - Sensei Darren Humphries More Kris Reynolds - Rokudan (6th Dan) Director “I remember as a teenager when Hanshi Shintani would attend tournaments, you could feel the whole room change when he walked in. He commanded such an enormous presence while at the same time a total kind and quiet demeanor. Even at my young age, it was easy to recognize that he had a true confidence derived from competence without ego, a precious and rare quality. We are so lucky that quality is prominent in so many of his direct students in the SWKKF.” More Rick Leveille - Kudan (9th Dan) Senate Advisor "The honesty and integrity Sensei Shintani taught me is the true strength of Wado Karate and are virtues that I live by everyday". Sensei Rick Leveille More Heather Fidyk - Shichidan (7th Dan) Former Senate Member "Sensei Shintani was an incredible inspiration to me and so many others. He served to ever increase his knowledge of Karate but most of all to share his gift of Karate with those who aspired to have it. Sensei Shintani holds a special place in my dedication to the Shintani Karate Federation and the continued development of the amazing organization he created." - Sensei Heather Fidyk More

Shintani News List Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation Senate is pleased to announce the 6th Dan ranking advancement for Senseis Reynolds, Hynes and Fast. Jul 25, 2025 Continue Reading With great pride, the SWKKF Senate and membership would like to congratulate Sensei Ron Mattie, for being inducted into the Canadian Black Belt Hall of Fame. Nov 2, 2024 Continue Reading Shindo Photos from National Memorial Tournament held on May 25, 2025. May 25, 2025 Continue Reading How every purchase you make from Hatashita can help fund the Shintani Wado-Kai Karate Federation. Jun 1, 2025 Continue Reading It is with sincere sadness we announce the passing of Sensei Jeff Gervin on March 10, 2025. He held the rank of 7th Dan and was a long time dedicated member of the SWKKF. Mar 10, 2025 Continue Reading We would like to thank all that have generously donated to this year's Logger Family Memorial Fund. This is an amazing tribute to Chris, Wendy & Brittany. Jun 2, 2025 Continue Reading SWKKF 2025 Scholarship Awards Announced Jul 25, 2025 Continue Reading Congratulations to Sensei Neil Prime for being inducted into the Cleveland Martial Arts Hall of Fame. Apr 5, 2025 Continue Reading The SWKKF Senate announce the Dan ranking advancement of Sensei McGregor and Sensei Freeman to Shichidan (7th Dan). Jan 20, 2025 Continue Reading 2025 Reach Award recipients announced at Shintani Annual Memorial Tournament on 24 May 2025 May 24, 2024 Continue Reading The Sensei Jeff Gervin Memorial Fund offers grants of up to $200.00 to support SWKKF students seeking to deepen their martial arts training. Mar 10, 2025 Continue Reading

< Back Hinton Wado Kai Sensei Don O'Quinn ​ Hinton Alberta Canada (780) 712-1869 Previous Next

< Back Tillsonburg Wado Kai Karate Club Sensei Darwin Sherman ​ Tillsonburg Ontario Canada (519) 582-4048 Previous Next

< Back Westcoast Wado Kai Sensei Oliver Fitzpatrick ​ Duncan British Columbia Canada (778) 676-0284 https://osfitzpatrick.wixsite.com/wadokai Previous Next