Hanshi Masaru Shintani, 10th Dan (Jūdan) was the Supreme Instructor of Wado Kai Karate in Canada and founder of the Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation (SWKKF). HANSHI MASARU SHINTANI Judan (10th DAN) 1928 - 2000 Hanshi Masaru Shintani, 10th Dan (Jūdan) was the Supreme Instructor of Wado Kai Karate in Canada and founder of the Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation (SWKKF). At the time of his death, he was the highest ranking Sensei outside of Japan. A direct student of Master Otsuka , the founder of Wado Kai, Shintani devoted over 50 years to the study of Karate. He also held ranks in Judo (Sandan), Aikido (Shodan), and Kendo (Shodan). Shintani was born on 3 February 1928 in Vancouver, British Columbia, the child of Japanese immigrants. His mother was a member of the Matsumoto clan, a respected samurai clan with a history going back hundreds of years. Like virtually all West Coast Japanese-Canadians during the Second World War, his family was uprooted and moved to the rugged interior of British Columbia for the duration of the war. The Shintani family, mother and six children, was interned in New Denver, an abandoned mining town used to house hundreds of Japanese Canadians. While growing up in the camp, he learned the ways of two cultures. On school mornings he attended Canadian classes in English, history, and mathematics. In the afternoon, he studied the Japanese language and heritage, along with Kendo and Judo, the standard physical education for all Japanese students. One day in 1940 -41, while looking for frozen ponds by the river to play hockey, Shintani and a group of youths came across an older man standing barefoot in the snow, punching a tree and shouting. This was his initial contact with the person who would introduce him to Karate. After several meetings, some of the boys were invited to train with the man, whose name was Kitagawa. He was a practitioner of Shorin-ryu, one of the older Okinawan Karate styles. Sensei Kitagawa referred to his teachings as Kumite (fighting) and soon the eager young men were beating the bark off of trees with punches, blocks and kicks. Shintani recalls training barefoot on the ice rink and sparring bouts. “Every time you got on the floor, it was life or death.” Sensei Kitagawa's methods would be considered rather excessive or 'brutal' by today's standards. Shintani reflected, “I believe it hurt our minds more than it helped our bodies.” Sensei Shintani instructing Sensei Peter Ciolfi After nine years under Sensei Kitagawa's direction, Shintani was graded to 6th Dan when Kitagawa returned to Japan. Shintani also traveled to Japan to train in Karate and visit his mother's family. He met Master Otsuka in 1956 at a Karate seminar. Over the next few years, Shintani competed in large national torunaments, eventually winning the Japan Karate Federation championship. In 1958, Master Otsuka invited Hanshi Shintani to join his Wado Kai organization. Impressed with the character and integrity of Master Otsuka, Hanshi Shintani respectfully accepted the invitation. During this time, Hanshi Shintani's family moved to Beamsville, near Hamilton, Ontario. To support his family, he tended the family farm and greenhouse. He also played semi-pro baseball. Shintani began teaching Karate and Judo locally and at the Japanese Cultural Centre in Hamilton. Sad to say, the Japanese in North America during the post-war period were subject to racism and violence. Shintani credits his survival during this time to his harsh training under Kitagawa and the humility he learned from his mother and Master Otsuka. “I learned a lesson in the war-time camps under Kitagawa Sensei. It protected my life. Under Otsuka Sensei, I preserved it”. In 1979, Master Otsuka graded Hanshi Shintani to Hachidan (8th Dan). At the same time Master Otsuka presented him with a Kudan (9th Dan) certificate. This was to be revealed by Shintani only after a suitable period of time had elasped. He made known his Kudan rank in 1995. Hanshi Shintani traveled to Japan several times to train with Master Otsuka. Master Otsuka honored his Canadian disciple by coming to Ontario occasionally to visit and teach. The last time was in 1980, two years prior to his passing. Sensei Shintani with Master Otsuka During the 1970s, Master Otsuka appointed Shintani the Supreme Instructor of Wado Kai in North America. After the death of Master Otsuka, Shintani visited Okinawa to meet with the old masters who had trained with Master Otsuka. Most of these men had passed on, except for Sensei Yamashita who shared his knowledge and memories with Shintani. Shintani's devotion to and mastery of Karate is remarkable. Stories of his skill and acts of humility greatly impressed those who had not met him. He constantly refined and improved the basic Karate techniques and concepts to advance the Way of Karate. He was determined that the vital and dynamic nature of Karate should not become stagnant or ritualized and be allowed to deteriorate into a stylized dance of impractical techniques, no longer representing a real martial art. He indicated that there are no symbolic moves in kata. Every technique must be performed as if it was ‘real’. In the few years before his death, Shintani spent much of his time developing Karate and Shindo concepts. He traveled across North America and globally to conduct seminars in Wado Kai and Shindo. As the leader of a large North American martial arts organization, he could easily have become a wealthy man. Instead, he lived a life of quiet modesty, continuing to follow his three ideals -- Humility, Integrity and Honour. Those of us in Wado Kai, who had the honor to meet Shintani, recognize what an incredible privilege it was to have trained with him and learned from him how to live the Way of Peace and Harmony. On December 2017, the SWKKF Senate was pleased to announce that its founder, Hanshi Masaru Shintani, had been awarded the highest Karate rank of Jūdan (10th dan) posthumously. Shintani is revered and honoured by his family, friends and students as the Grand Master and founder of the SWKKF.

Shintani History & Legacy - Photos / Videos Click here to submit new photos / videos Senei Rick Leveille Visits the Nikkei Center in June 2011 - Hanshi Shintani Wartime Camp 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2011 2017 2023 2006 2007 2008 2009 2012 2013 2014 2015 2018 2019 2020 2021 2024 2025 2026 2010 2016 2022 Years with Red are under development. Check back often for updates. If you have a lot of pictures to send, please send an e-mail to legacy@shintani.ca to get a google drive link

Interviews Highlighting Sensei Shintani Denis Labbe Brad Cosby Ron Mattie Rick Leveille Michel Gosselin Neil Prime Lou Roentgen Bruce Perkins Jim Atkinson Brian Julien Heather Fidyk Peter Avino Dave Manara Darren Humphries Shelley McGregor Shintani Stories & Memories Rick Leveille Peter Avino Charlotte Martin Robert Graham Lou Roentgen Jim Atkinson Bruce Perkins Shelley McGregor Ron Mattie Darren Humphries Brad Cosby Michel Gosselin Blaine Beemer Heather Fidyk Carlos Garcia

Hanshi Masaru Shintani, 10th Dan (Jūdan) was the Supreme Instructor of Wado Kai Karate in Canada and founder of the Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation (SWKKF). HANSHI MASARU SHINTANI Judan (10th DAN) 1928 - 2000 Hanshi Masaru Shintani, 10th Dan (Jūdan) was the Supreme Instructor of Wado Kai Karate in Canada and founder of the Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation (SWKKF). At the time of his death, he was the highest ranking Sensei outside of Japan. A direct student of Master Otsuka , the founder of Wado Kai, Shintani devoted over 50 years to the study of Karate. He also held ranks in Judo (Sandan), Aikido (Shodan), and Kendo (Shodan). Shintani was born on 3 February 1928 in Vancouver, British Columbia, the child of Japanese immigrants. His mother was a member of the Matsumoto clan, a respected samurai clan with a history going back hundreds of years. Like virtually all West Coast Japanese-Canadians during the Second World War, his family was uprooted and moved to the rugged interior of British Columbia for the duration of the war. The Shintani family, mother and six children, was interned in New Denver, an abandoned mining town used to house hundreds of Japanese Canadians. While growing up in the camp, he learned the ways of two cultures. On school mornings he attended Canadian classes in English, history, and mathematics. In the afternoon, he studied the Japanese language and heritage, along with Kendo and Judo, the standard physical education for all Japanese students. One day in 1940 -41, while looking for frozen ponds by the river to play hockey, Shintani and a group of youths came across an older man standing barefoot in the snow, punching a tree and shouting. This was his initial contact with the person who would introduce him to Karate. After several meetings, some of the boys were invited to train with the man, whose name was Kitagawa. He was a practitioner of Shorin-ryu, one of the older Okinawan Karate styles. Sensei Kitagawa referred to his teachings as Kumite (fighting) and soon the eager young men were beating the bark off of trees with punches, blocks and kicks. Shintani recalls training barefoot on the ice rink and sparring bouts. “Every time you got on the floor, it was life or death.” Sensei Kitagawa's methods would be considered rather excessive or 'brutal' by today's standards. Shintani reflected, “I believe it hurt our minds more than it helped our bodies.” Sensei Shintani instructing Sensei Peter Ciolfi After nine years under Sensei Kitagawa's direction, Shintani was graded to 6th Dan when Kitagawa returned to Japan. Shintani also traveled to Japan to train in Karate and visit his mother's family. He met Master Otsuka in 1956 at a Karate seminar. Over the next few years, Shintani competed in large national torunaments, eventually winning the Japan Karate Federation championship. In 1958, Master Otsuka invited Hanshi Shintani to join his Wado Kai organization. Impressed with the character and integrity of Master Otsuka, Hanshi Shintani respectfully accepted the invitation. During this time, Hanshi Shintani's family moved to Beamsville, near Hamilton, Ontario. To support his family, he tended the family farm and greenhouse. He also played semi-pro baseball. Shintani began teaching Karate and Judo locally and at the Japanese Cultural Centre in Hamilton. Sad to say, the Japanese in North America during the post-war period were subject to racism and violence. Shintani credits his survival during this time to his harsh training under Kitagawa and the humility he learned from his mother and Master Otsuka. “I learned a lesson in the war-time camps under Kitagawa Sensei. It protected my life. Under Otsuka Sensei, I preserved it”. In 1979, Master Otsuka graded Hanshi Shintani to Hachidan (8th Dan). At the same time Master Otsuka presented him with a Kudan (9th Dan) certificate. This was to be revealed by Shintani only after a suitable period of time had elasped. He made known his Kudan rank in 1995. Hanshi Shintani traveled to Japan several times to train with Master Otsuka. Master Otsuka honored his Canadian disciple by coming to Ontario occasionally to visit and teach. The last time was in 1980, two years prior to his passing. Sensei Shintani with Master Otsuka During the 1970s, Master Otsuka appointed Shintani the Supreme Instructor of Wado Kai in North America. After the death of Master Otsuka, Shintani visited Okinawa to meet with the old masters who had trained with Master Otsuka. Most of these men had passed on, except for Sensei Yamashita who shared his knowledge and memories with Shintani. Shintani's devotion to and mastery of Karate is remarkable. Stories of his skill and acts of humility greatly impressed those who had not met him. He constantly refined and improved the basic Karate techniques and concepts to advance the Way of Karate. He was determined that the vital and dynamic nature of Karate should not become stagnant or ritualized and be allowed to deteriorate into a stylized dance of impractical techniques, no longer representing a real martial art. He indicated that there are no symbolic moves in kata. Every technique must be performed as if it was ‘real’. In the few years before his death, Shintani spent much of his time developing Karate and Shindo concepts. He traveled across North America and globally to conduct seminars in Wado Kai and Shindo. As the leader of a large North American martial arts organization, he could easily have become a wealthy man. Instead, he lived a life of quiet modesty, continuing to follow his three ideals -- Humility, Integrity and Honour. Those of us in Wado Kai, who had the honor to meet Shintani, recognize what an incredible privilege it was to have trained with him and learned from him how to live the Way of Peace and Harmony. On December 2017, the SWKKF Senate was pleased to announce that its founder, Hanshi Masaru Shintani, had been awarded the highest Karate rank of Jūdan (10th dan) posthumously. Shintani is revered and honoured by his family, friends and students as the Grand Master and founder of the SWKKF.

Karate Federation Shintani Wado Kai SWKKF Introduction The Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation (SWKKF) is a non-profit organization that was founded by Hanshi Masaru Shintani in 1966. The SWKKF is one of the largest martial arts organization of a single style in North America. Current registered membership is approximately 1,900 students with 400+ active black belts. The largest Canadian membership groups are in Southern Ontario and Alberta. SWKKF membership continues to grow nationally, particularly in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Northwest Territories and British Columbia. US membership also continues to grow, an area that we are looking to expand. The SWKKF supports a national team that represents it at Canadian and international tournaments. Organizational Structure The SWKKF has adopted a practical, functional structure that supports its strategy and strategic direction. One aspect addresses its hierarchical structure and the other area establishes designated SWKKF activities. Members are elected to representative positions within this structure for a period of 4 years. The last election was held in 2020. Hierarchical Structure SWKKF Committees Provincial Senate Finance Viability Regional Members Investment Clubs Service Excellance Legacy Click any box for more info. NOTE: Current provinces represented include: Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Nova Scotia. Current states represented include: Arizona, Arkansas, Texas and New York. Club members with any questions or concerns should first contact their club representative(s). They will be pleased to assist you.

Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation (SWKKF) Welcome to the Heart of Our Organization Want to know what makes the SWKKF tick? You’re in the right place - check below. Our Vision : The Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation will be the premiere traditional Karate and Shindo organization in North America, through the work of our highly skilled and dedicated instructors in developing unparalleled character, skill and pride in our students. Our Mission : The Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation is an inclusive organization modeling Hanshi Shintani's kindness and humility, through the teaching of his traditional Karate and Shindo. This is your one-stop guide to who we are, how we train, and what we stand for. Explore our structure, policies, grading manuals, and procedures - all clearly laid out and easy to navigate. The SWKKF has clubs and affiliates across Canada and internationally, and strong relationships with respected global martial arts organizations. Discover our training philosophy, commitment to Safe Karate, and our inclusive spirit - including para-karate classes that ensure everyone has a place on the mats. Follow the clear path to black belt through our structured grading system and see how we maintain the high standards that define our dojos and the SWKKF. Click Any Subject in Blue Below SWKKF Overview Senate Committees Representatives Policies, Procedures & Manuals Training Programs Black Belt Grading Safe Karate Program SWKKF Programs REACH Scholarships SWKKF Affiliations KC/WKF Dan Certificate Shintani Affiliate Program Superfoot Schools World Kobudo Federation World Traditional Karate

Welcome to the Shintani Store SWKKF Katas - Volume 1 - 4 Volume 1: Power Kata (Chi Kata), Pinan Shodan, Pinan Nidan, Pinan Sandan, Pinan Yodan, Pinan Godan Volume 2: Kushanku, Naihanchin, Chinto, Wanshu Volume 3: Chonan Shodan, Tekki Shodan, Shopai Volume 4: Seisho, Chocodo, Teisho Shindo Volume 1 - 3 Volume 1: Basic Shindo Volume 2: Intermediate Shindo Volume 3: Advanced Shindo Grading Techniques Shindo Katas Chonan No Shindo Kushanku No Shindo Taisei No Shindo ** New Shindo Katas Wanshu No Shindo Gensho Shodan No Shindo Chinto No Shindo Black Belt Grading Techniques of the SWKKF Kihon Kumite Techniques Shintani 60 Year Celebration Hanshi Shintani Kihon Kumite Techniques Hanshi Shintani Kihon Kumite Techniques Limited Edition Prints ** Shintani / Otsuka, Hanshi Shintani Gedan Shuto, Hanshi Shintani Shindo Shintani / Shindo Shirts ** Shintani Wado Kai and Shindo Limited Edition Shirts. ** To Order - Send email to dlabbe@shintani.ca Shintani Branded Dojo Apparel SWKKF Student Store Shintani Branded Duffel Bags, Mugs, Shirts, Jackets and more Equipment: Hand/Foot Pads, Karate Gi's , Belts Duffel Bags, Clothing Hard & Soft Shindo. Make sure to search for Shintani when ordering. Use discount code: SWKKF Sport Excel Academy Member Items Special offer for SWKKF Members Wood carvings SWKKF Instructor Store Store for SWKKF Instructors. Make sure to search for Shintani when ordering. Use discount code: SWKKF Louis Roentgen Book Order Sensei Lou Roentgen (direct student of Sensei Shintani) book on Karate-Do

Want to host an event? Fill out the Calendar of event form below and send it to Sensei Labbe (dlabbe@shintani.ca ). Calendar of Events Form Shintani Facebook Events Page Upcoming Events Sun, Apr 12 Brown & Black Belt National Zoom Workout / ZOOM RSVP Apr 12, 2026, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM EDT ZOOM Brown and Black Belt Zoom Workout is on April 12th-2026 starting at 9:00 am Mountain Time/ 11:00 am Eastern Time. Open to all SWKKF brown and black belts. Mon, Apr 13 Calgary Regional Brown/Black Workout / 3602 8 St SW Learn more Apr 13, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM MDT 3602 8 St SW, 3602 8 St SW, Calgary, AB T2T 3A7, Canada You’re invited to join us for a special Regional Brown & Black Belt Workout hosted by Three Elements Karate in Calgary Multiple Dates Tue, Apr 14 Shindo Zoom Classes - April 2026 / Zoom Learn more Apr 14, 2026, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM EDT Zoom You and your students are invited to join another series of free online Shindo classes on zoom, hosted by Sensei Jim Atkinson, open to all SWKKF karateka. Multiple Dates Thu, Apr 16 Shindo Zoom Classes - April 2026 / Zoom Learn more Apr 16, 2026, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM EDT Zoom You and your students are invited to join another series of free online Shindo classes on zoom, hosted by Sensei Jim Atkinson, open to all SWKKF karateka. Fri, Apr 17 Peter Ciolfi Memorial Clinic / Welland RSVP Apr 17, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Welland, 77 Division St, Welland, ON L3B 3Z8, Canada Join us April 18, 2026, at the Welland Martial Arts Centre for the Peter Ciolfi Memorial Tournament. Fri, Apr 17 Self Defense Seminar / 4911 W Pleasant Grove Rd Learn more Apr 17, 2026, 7:00 PM CDT – Apr 18, 2026, 3:00 PM CDT 4911 W Pleasant Grove Rd, 4911 W Pleasant Grove Rd, Rogers, AR 72758, USA Self Defense Seminar - NWA Wado Kai Karate - with Sensei Peter Avino Fri, Apr 17 Melfort 15th Annual Clinic / Melfort Learn more Apr 17, 2026, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM CST Melfort, 501 Bemister Ave E, Melfort, SK S0E 1A0, Canada Melfort 15th Annual Clinic and Tournament Multiple Dates Fri, Apr 17 Spring Karate Event - Westcoast Wado Kai Karate / 211 Fern Rd W Learn more Apr 17, 2026, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM PDT 211 Fern Rd W, 211 Fern Rd W, Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 1S4, Canada Join us for an exciting and community-focused Spring Karate event by Umi Karate on April 17-18th-2026. This special weekend offers a unique opportunity for learning, connection, and camaraderie across Vancouver Island Clubs. Sat, Apr 18 Peter Ciolfi Memorial Tournament / Welland RSVP Apr 18, 2026, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM EDT Welland, 77 Division St, Welland, ON L3B 3Z8, Canada Join us April 18, 2026, at the Welland Martial Arts Centre for the Peter Ciolfi Memorial Tournament. Sat, Apr 18 Spruce Grove Wado Kai Karate Tournament / 505 McLeod Ave RSVP Apr 18, 2026, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM MDT 505 McLeod Ave, 505 McLeod Ave, Spruce Grove, AB T7X 2Y5, Canada Spruce Grove Wado Kai Karate Tournament Sat, Apr 18 Melfort 15th Annual Tournament / Melfort Learn more Apr 18, 2026, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM CST Melfort, 501 Bemister Ave E, Melfort, SK S0E 1A0, Canada Melfort 15th Annual Clinic and Tournament Multiple Dates Sat, Apr 18 Spring Karate Event - Westcoast Wado Kai Karate / 211 Fern Rd W Learn more Apr 18, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM PDT 211 Fern Rd W, 211 Fern Rd W, Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 1S4, Canada Join us for an exciting and community-focused Spring Karate event by Umi Karate on April 17-18th-2026. This special weekend offers a unique opportunity for learning, connection, and camaraderie across Vancouver Island Clubs. Multiple Dates Tue, Apr 21 Shindo Zoom Classes - April 2026 / Zoom Learn more Apr 21, 2026, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM EDT Zoom You and your students are invited to join another series of free online Shindo classes on zoom, hosted by Sensei Jim Atkinson, open to all SWKKF karateka. Multiple Dates Thu, Apr 23 Sensei Mattie Monthly Instructor Clinics / https://rebrand.ly/t55ybqa Learn more Apr 23, 2026, 7:45 PM – 9:15 PM https://rebrand.ly/t55ybqa SWKKF INSTRUCTORS Sensei Mattie is continuing to host a series of free monthly Instructor Clinics on Zoom. These are on Eastern Time Multiple Dates Thu, Apr 23 Shindo Zoom Classes - April 2026 / Zoom Learn more Apr 23, 2026, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM EDT Zoom You and your students are invited to join another series of free online Shindo classes on zoom, hosted by Sensei Jim Atkinson, open to all SWKKF karateka. Multiple Dates Sun, Apr 26 Shintani Team Monthly Virtual Wourkouts / ZOOM Link will be sent after Registration Learn more Apr 26, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT ZOOM Link will be sent after Registration Join the Shintani Team for a monthly virtual training session designed to keep SWKKF members connected, active, and training together—no matter where you are. These sessions are open to all SWKKF members and run on the 4th Sunday of the months listed below. Multiple Dates Tue, Apr 28 Shindo Zoom Classes - April 2026 / Zoom Learn more Apr 28, 2026, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM EDT Zoom You and your students are invited to join another series of free online Shindo classes on zoom, hosted by Sensei Jim Atkinson, open to all SWKKF karateka. Multiple Dates Thu, Apr 30 Shindo Zoom Classes - April 2026 / Zoom Learn more Apr 30, 2026, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM EDT Zoom You and your students are invited to join another series of free online Shindo classes on zoom, hosted by Sensei Jim Atkinson, open to all SWKKF karateka. Load More

Applying for the Fund About the Fund Eligibility Application Sensei Jeff Gervin Memorial Training Fund Applying for the Memorial Fund Students are invited to apply for support through the Sensei Jeff Gervin Memorial Fund. Grants of up to $200 are available on a first-come, first-served basis while funds remain. How it Works Application form: form.jotform.com/251126458723053 About the Fund Purpose The Sensei Jeff Gervin Memorial Training Fund honours the life and passion of Sensei Jeff Gervin, a dedicated karateka and martial artist who inspired many through his commitment and love of martial arts. He believed that exploring different perspectives deepens understanding. Each year, the fund supports karate students expanding their martial arts knowledge. Students may apply for reimbursement of seminars, courses, or training events in any martial arts discipline. The fund opens January 1 and remains open until the annual allocation (minimum $1000) is used. For 2025, the fund will be available from May 1 to December 31. Eligibility Rules Open to all SWKKF karateka in good standing. Up to $200 per person per year; additional funds may be available if the annual budget remains at year-end. Eligible expenses: seminar or course fees for any martial art, inside or outside of the SWKKF. Not eligible: travel costs (hotel, food, gas) and expenses to host events (gym rental, honorarium). Participants may apply annually, without limit. Proof of completion (e.g., certificate or signed letter) is required. Application Steps Register and pay for the course. Complete the application form (proof of payment required): https://form.jotform.com/251126458723053 After completing the course, email confirmation (certificate, exam results, or seminar host contact) to: [kelsey@whitemudkarate.com ]. Upon approval, reimbursement will be sent via eTransfer within 2–3 weeks. Quick note: Grants are limited by the annual allocation (minimum $1000) and are available until funds are used. After completing the course, email proof of completion to: [kelsey@whitemudkarate.com ]

The Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation is a non-profit, inclusive organization, modeling Hanshi Shintani's kindness and humility, through the teaching of his traditional karate and Shindo. Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation Welcome to SWKKF Canada’s Premier Karate Community 1900 members, 400+ black belts, and a legacy of excellence. Why SWKKF? Thinking about starting karate — for yourself or your child? We're here to help you begin that journey with purpose, passion, and support. With over 60 clubs across Canada , world-class instructors, family-friendly programs, safety-conscious, and exciting events all year round, SWKKF is more than just martial arts. It’s a place where individuals grow stronger, build friendships, and become leaders — inside and outside the dojo. Ready to Get Started? Experience the difference SWKKF makes! Your First Class - Click Here Learn - Grow - Excel Join the SWKKF Family Click Here to "Find a Club" Near You See Why Families Across Canada Trust SWKKF! Click to Read Karate Clubs Making the Right Choice Click to View Video "The Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation is a non-profit, inclusive organization, modeling Hanshi Shintani's kindness and humility, through the teaching of his traditional karate and Shindo." Confirmation of Sensei Shintani Successor Click to Read News That Pack a Punch MORE INFO UPCOMING EVENTS Find a Club Near You Kids, teens, adults — karate is for everyone! Find a karate class near you and take the first step today! Click the button. Clubs Shintani News Shintani Wado Kai Karate Federation Senate is pleased to announce the 6th Dan ranking promotions. Jul 25, 2025 Continue Reading Sensei Neil Prime Inducted into the Cleveland Martial Arts Hall of Fame Apr 5, 2025 Continue Reading SWKKF 2025 Scholarship Awards Announced Jul 25, 2025 Continue Reading Shindo Photos from National Memorial Tournament May 25, 2025 Continue Reading Sensei Ron Mattie inducted into the Canadian Black Belt Hall of Fame Nov 2, 2024 Continue Reading See All News

< Back Shelley McGregor - Shichidan (7th Dan) Director Sensei Shelley started her Karate journey in 1987 at the Edson Club under the guidance of Sensei Danial McCoy. She was graded to Shodan February of 1992 and in June, 2024 was promoted to Shichidan by the Senate. She has achieved her Level 4 instructor certification in the SWKKF. In May, 2019 she received the rank of Rokudan from the World Traditional Karate Association and has since obtained her Level A instructor qualification and Level A examiner qualification. Sensei Shelley moved to Whitecourt, Alberta in 1993 and took over the Whitecourt club as head in 1998. She has enjoyed hosting numerous tournaments and events over the years. In 2012 she became President of the Alberta Shintani Karate Association and leads the clubs in their development. She has been involved on numerous committees and still remains an active contributor, is a past provincial representative of Alberta, organizes and instructs the Shintani Kata course. She aided in the Kata production of Volume 3 and Volume 4 where she demonstrates Chocodo. Sensei Shelley and her husband Grant continue to reside in Whitecourt, Alberta where they raised their four children, Brandon, Cameron, Conner and Shantelle. Two of her children are black belts in the SWKKF. Sensei Shelley’s believes: Focus on the positive Be kind to yourself and to others Keep training, keep learning, enjoy your karate journey and above all - have fun! smcgregor@shintani.ca +1 (780) 706-5746

< Back Neil Prime - Hachidan (8th Dan) Director Sensei Neil Prime began training karate under Hanshi Shintani in 1978, started the St. Catharines Wado Kai Karate Club with Sensei Mike Bannister in the fall of 1987, was graded to shodan in Feb 1988 and to shodan in shindo in 1992. As a brown belt Sensei Neil started training outside his own club and was a regular at the Grimsby club (Sensei Brad Cosby and Sensei Brian Chmay) and in Welland, ON. (Sensei Peter Ciolfi and Sensei Ron Mattie). Sensei Neil also trained in many open seminars and camps. From 1991 to 1995 he trained and competed in kickboxing. “I trusted that my karate fundamentals were strong, but wanted to put them to the test of competing in a full contact environment. I found that by having a more structured base that I had a big advantage over most competitors." - Sensei Neil Prime From 2004 to 2007 Sensei Neil was and alternate team member and manager of the SWKKF National Team. Sensei Neil remained active during the new team selection process and has assisted in coaching as requested. Over the years, Sensei Neil also trained with the USA Shintani Wado group (Sensei Dr. Bob Graham) and through that group formed the Shintani Combative Group (Sensei Toby Wolfe, Sensei Bill Sorvelli, Sensei Peter Avino, Sensei Mark Flaherty and Sensei Dan Moore). In 2011 they trained the Special Warfare Medical Group, Fort Bragg, N.C. introducing Shintani Wado Kai Karate and Shindo to the elite forces. Prior to the forming of the Senate, Sensei Neil was an active member of the Shintani Executive Board and participated as one of the initial members of the Tournament Committee, the Editor of the Harmonizer, held the position of Niagara Regional Representative and still holds an active position on the Grading Committee. Sensei Neil is also the co-author in the development of Strategic Sparring Clinics with Sensei Brad Cosby, Sensei Peter Avino and Sensei Walt Fast. Sensei Neil was awarded Hachidan (8th Dan) from the SWKKF senate in September 2022. nprime@shintani.ca +1 (647) 463-5828