The Western Karate Academy

The year 2000 saw several changes including the addition of a second location. We now have classes available on the North and South Shore and enjoy the benefits of having large Dojos of approximately 2000 square feet, which allows us room to move freely and to grow in size.

Sensei Jim Doan has been teaching Karate for almost fourteen years and is currently working on his 3rd degree Black belt. His wife Laura is a Brown belt, and is currently working on her Masters degree in Education as well as her Black belt.

Both Jim and Laura have a post secondary education that is directed in psychology and social sciences, and this offers the added benefit of being able to help students who are dealing with social difficulties or are in need of some one who will listen to their concerns or struggles. Karate continues to be recommended by professionals as a way to help control the effects of ADD, ADHD and FAS. Parents are often amazed at the almost instantaneous effects that the discipline of Karate can offer.

An important part of our training are the nightly lectures that include the Twenty Principles of Karate by Gichin Funakoshi. We adhere to the philosophy that we are building citizens, not training fighters.

The year 2001 will be remembered as the year our first Kamloops student reached a major milestone . On January 06th, sixteen year old Tim Frazer stood in front of a roomful of friends, family and fellow Karatekas and was presented with his Black belt. The local newspaper was on hand with a photographer and reporter and Tim was favoured with a half page article titled "Achievement of a Lifetime". We were all very proud of Tim and glad we could be a part of this special event. Tim continues to teach at the school as he works at sharpening his skills and finishing high school.

The year ahead looks bright and we continue to look forward to working and growing together. If you would like to join us in the adventure, call us at 376-5428 - the first month is free!