Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley – April / May Newsletter
New Season, Renewed Spirit
Cross Posted to email and on our website – 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 cherry blossoms bloom in Kyoto, our dōjō 道場 enters a season of renewal. This season 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 first steps, thank you for bringing your energy and spirit to the hardwood floor, week after week.
📘 1. SKSV Club Guide is Available for all Club Members on Google Books
Cover of Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley Gojukai Club Guide
Our club curriculum and handbook, the SKSV Club Guide, is available for members via Google Books. You’ll have to be added to the previewers list and must log-on with your Google ID to access. This living document outlines fundamental expectations, etiquette, grading criteria and other questions you’ll have regarding our clubs program.
📖 Access the Guide
📝 Hint: Keeping a personal karate notebook will enrich your learning and help chart your progress.
🖊️ 2. Training Registration via Menlo Park Recreation
Spring session enrollment is now active. Please register promptly to ensure your spot:
- Monday Beginners – Register Here
- Monday Experienced – Register Here
- Wednesday Beginners – Register Here
- Wednesday Experienced – Register Here
If you experience any technical issues, contact the City of Menlo Park Recreation Services.
🥋 3. Uniform Recommendations: Mugen (Ki International)
The first question we always hear is “Where can I buy a Gi.” We continue to recommend the Mugen brand from Ki International (Los Angeles) as the “best bang for the buck” dōgi 道着 (traditional uniform) for beginners. The “Orange Label” line offers excellent value, fit, and comfort for all levels.
🛒 Order the Mugen Orange Label Uniform
👉 Contact: Ki International
🏅 4. Upcoming Tournaments:
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Tibon’s Fighting Arts Invitational (In-House Tournament) – Stockton
A great competition opportunity in Stockton! Registration details will be available soon. Stay tuned for updates. -
32nd Annual IKF Karate Championships – Sacramento
The IKF Sacramento Karate Championships will be held on June 10, 2023. This is a prestigious event with 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 Budo Seminar and 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. Please extend your respect and support to them in my absence. Their knowledge is deep, and their leadership strong.
📢 Days I will be away from the dojo:
- Wednesday, April 23
- Monday, April 28
- Wednesday, April 30
🗾 6. Summer Japan Training Tour – July 2025
It’s 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). Individuals who wish to participate in the JKF Gojukai seminar and tournament must be members of the JKF Gojukai (which requires membership in a member club such as Seiwakai).
📅 Schedule Overview:
- July 16–18: Training days in Daisen (Omagari), Akita
- July 19: Rest day
- July 20–22: More training, with testing for qualified students on July 22 (afternoon)
- July 23: Travel toSendai (Miyagi Prefecture) for the JKF Gojukai Seminar
- July 24–25: JKF Gojukai Seminar (9:00 AM–12:00 PM, 2:00 PM–4:00 PM)
- Testing for qualified students: July 25 (1:00 PM–5:00 PM)
- July 26–27: Tournament at Sendai Budokan
This is a life-changing opportunity to train with world-class instructors and immerse yourself in the spiritual home of Karate-Dō 空手道. Let us know early if you’re interested in joining.
🌸 7. Welcome to Our New Members
To our newest participants: ようこそ! Welcome to the Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley family. Your commitment to learning and growth inspires us all. Feel free to approach Sensei or Senpai with any questions.
To our returning members: Thank you for your consistency, your discipline, and the heart you bring to every class. Together, we are creating a dōjō culture that honors tradition while fostering progress.
🌐 8. Weblinks and Media
Being located in Silicon Valley compels us to embrace technology as part of our culture and communication. Please take advantage of our digital platforms for news, videos, photos, and updates:
- 🌐 SKSV Landing Page: www.SeiwakaiKarate.com (Built by J Williams Designs.)
- 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/seiwakaikaratesiliconvalley
- 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/BayAreaKarate
- 💬 WhatsApp Group Chat: Linked removed from online for privacy. Please see your email.
- ▶️ YouTube: youtube.com/Gojuryu
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- 🔍 Google Reviews: Leave or Read a Google Review
- 𝕏 (formerly Twitter): x.com/SeiwakaiKarate
We 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
誠和会空手シリコン谷・指導者
