SHITOKAI KARATE AUSTRALIA is the official representative body of Shitoryu Karate-Do within Australia.
It is the sole official Federation which represents the following international governing bodies
World Shitoryu Karate-Do
Asia Pacific Shitoryu Karate-Do
Shitokai Japan
Who can become a member of our federation
Australian based schools/dojos/clubs that practice, or seek to practice the art of Shitoryu Karate-Do may apply for affiliation with our organization.
What are the benefits of your school/dojo joining our federation
Affiliation provides access to numerous benefits such as:
- High level international competition
- International workshops, seminars and training on Shitoryu Kata with renowned experts
- International workshops on Kumite
- International examination and certification
- Recognition
Members have access to the highest level of authentic technical knowledge in the Shitoryu system, due to the genuine historical connection with the Shitoryu Karate-Do founder – Kenwa Mabuni.
HISTORY
KENWA MABUNI
(1889 – 1952)
Founder (Ryuso) of the style ‘Shitoryu Karate Do’. Grandmaster Kenwa Mabuni was a 17th generation descendant of the warrior “Oni-Ohgushiku”. It is well documented that he was weak in his early childhood and had a fierce desire to become strong like his ancestors, so he began training with Master Anko Itosu in Shuri City (Okinawa) at around age 13. When he was a little older he became acquainted with Chojun Miyagi, a student of Master Kanryo Higaonna in Naha City (Okinawa). Through this friendship Kenwa Mabuni was introduced to Higaonna, from whom he learnt the Naha system in great depth. Kenwa Mabuni learnt other forms of martial arts however Itosu and Higaonna were by far his greatest influencers. So much so that he went on to name his karate style SHITO in honour of them. ‘SHI’ deriving from the hieroglyphic character of the name Higaonna, and ‘TO’ deriving from the hieroglyphic character of the name Itosu.
KENEI MABUNI
(1918 – 2015)
First born son and successor of Kenwa Mabuni. From his early childhood he began learning karate from his father and eventually began teaching with his father. Following in his father’s footsteps he continued for the remainder of his life teaching his father’s art to the world. In 1993 when the World Shitoryu Karate-Do Federation was established he became its first president. Shitoryu Karate-Do eventually spread to every corner of the globe and continues until today to grow in popularity thanks to his efforts.
MANZO IWATA
(1924 – 1993)
Master Manzo Iwata first began training in Judo, Kendo and Aikido, but he then went on to become one of the key disciples of Grandmaster Kenwa Mabuni. He began his karate journey in approximately 1938 when he encountered Master Kenwa Mabuni teaching karate at Toyo University. After graduating from the university Manzo Iwata was bestowed by Grandmaster Kenwa Mabuni the title of ‘Shihan’ of Shitoryu Karate-Do. At the request of Grandmaster Mabuni, Manzo Iwata established a headquarters for Shitoryu Karate-Do in Tokyo.
KENYU MABUNI SOKE
(b.1951)
Grandson of Kenwa Mabuni and successor to the style
GENZO IWATA KAICHO
(b.1951)
Son of Manzo Iwata and current President of WSKF
CON KASSIS SHIHAN
(1959 – 2022)
Disciple of Master Kenei Mabuni and Founder of Shitoryu Karate-Do Australia. First Australian representative of WSKF and APSKF. Past long-standing Vice President of WSKF.
STRUCTURE
Shitokai Karate Australia Incorporated was established in 2023 following the passing of Australia’s most knowledgeable and highly respected leader, Con Kassis Sensei. The federation was established to unite the various Shitoryu schools around the country, most of whom at some stage were taught or guided by Con Kassis Sensei. The federation is formed in his honour.
Shitokai Karate Australia is administered by the following board members
President
Rosanna Kassis – VIC
(Director, World Shitoryu Karate-Do Federation)
Secretaries
Chris Long, Dianne Long – QLD
Treasurer
Ricky Rigor – NSW
Member
Daniel Mau – SA
For anyone interested in affiliation or for any general enquiries you are welcome to contact us using the form below.