Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley – April / May Newsletter

New Season, Renewed Spirit (新たな季節、新たな精神)

Cross-posted to email and on our website: www.gojuryu.net

Welcome to Spring

季節の変わり目には新たな意志と共に稽古に励みましょう。

As the days grow longer here in California and the cherry blossoms bloom in Kyoto, our dōjō (道場) enters a season of true renewal. This spring brings continued momentum, important announcements, and exciting opportunities to deepen our training and community spirit.

Whether you are a seasoned black belt or a beginner taking your very first steps on the tatami, thank you for bringing your energy and spirit to the hardwood floor, week after week.

1. SKSV Club Guide is Available on Google Books

Cover of SKSV Club Guide

Our official club curriculum and handbook, the SKSV Club Guide, is available to all club members via Google Books. You’ll need to be added to the authorized previewer list and log in with your Google ID (Gmail) to view it. This living document clearly outlines fundamental expectations, etiquette, grading criteria, and answers many questions you may have regarding our program.

Access the Guide Here

Hint: Keeping a personal karate notebook will vastly enrich your learning and help chart your physical progress.

2. Training Registration via Menlo Park Recreation

Spring session enrollment is now fully active. Please register promptly to ensure your spot on the floor:

• Monday Beginners – Register Here
• Monday Experienced – Register Here
• Wednesday Beginners – Register Here
• Wednesday Experienced – Register Here

🔧 If you experience any technical issues with the portal, please contact the City of Menlo Park Recreation Services.

3. Uniform Recommendations: Mugen (Ki International)

The first question we always hear from new students is, “Where can I buy a Gi?”

We consistently recommend the Mugen brand from Ki International (Los Angeles) as the absolute “best bang for the buck” dōgi (道着) (traditional uniform) for beginners. The “Orange Label” line offers excellent value, fit, and comfort for practitioners of all levels.

Order your Mugen Orange Label Uniform Here
Contact: Ki International

4. Upcoming Tournaments

For those looking to test their skills in competition, we have two excellent local events coming up:

• Tibon’s Fighting Arts Invitational (In-House Tournament) – Stockton
  A fantastic competition opportunity in Stockton! Registration details will be available soon. Stay tuned for updates.
• 32nd Annual IKF Karate Championships – Sacramento
  The prestigious IKF Sacramento Karate Championships will be held on June 10, 2025. This is a top-tier event featuring high-level competitors from across the region.
  More Info & Registration

5. Johnpaul Training Abroad – Kyoto, April

I will be away from April 22–30 attending a major Budo Seminar and performing a formal embu (演武) (demonstration) in Kyoto (京都) under the auspices of the Dai Nippon Butokukai (大日本武徳会).

During this time, senior Senpai (先輩) will be leading classes in Menlo Park. Please extend your deepest respect and support to them in my absence. Their knowledge is deep, and their leadership is strong.

6. Summer Japan Training Tour – July 2025

It is never too early to plan for summer training in Japan!

This year, our training will begin in Daisen (Omagari), Akita Prefecture, followed by the JKF Gojukai Seminar and Tournament in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. All current Seiwakai members in good standing are welcome to participate in the Seiwakai gasshuku (seminar).

Note: Individuals who wish to participate in the JKF Gojukai seminar and tournament must be formal members of the JKF Gojukai (which requires membership in a member club such as Seiwakai).

This is a life-changing opportunity to train with world-class instructors and completely immerse yourself in the spiritual home of Karate-Dō (空手道). Please let Sensei know early if you are interested in joining the delegation.

7. Welcome to Our New Members

To our newest participants: Yōkoso (ようこそ)! Welcome to the Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley family. Your commitment to learning and growth inspires us all. Please feel free to approach Sensei or any of the Senpai with any questions you may have.

To our returning members: Thank you for your consistency, your discipline, and the heart you bring to every single class. Together, we are creating a dōjō culture that honors tradition while fostering continuous progress.

8. Weblinks and Media

Being located in the heart of Silicon Valley compels us to embrace technology as a vital part of our culture and communication. Please take advantage of our digital platforms for news, videos, photos, and fast updates:

• SKSV Landing Page: www.SeiwakaiKarate.com (Design by J Williams Designs)
• Instagram: @seiwakaikaratesiliconvalley
• Facebook: facebook.com/BayAreaKarate
• WhatsApp Group Chat: Link removed from online for privacy. Please check your email for the invite link.
• YouTube: youtube.com/Gojuryu
• Yelp: Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley on Yelp
• Google Reviews: Leave or Read a Google Review
• (Twitter): x.com/SeiwakaiKarate

We highly encourage all members—especially new ones—to join these channels to stay informed and connected.

Closing Message from Johnpaul Williams

Let us move into this new season with intention. Train diligently. Support one another sincerely. Represent Seiwakai with honor and humility.

See you on the hardwood floor, moving with purpose and spirit.

頑張ってください！ (Gambatte kudasai!)

– Johnpaul Williams
Director, Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley Gojūkan (誠和会空手シリコン谷・指導者)
+1-650-394-6669 (Text only for SKSV inquiries)