Our passionate instructors care as much for their students as they do about their respective martial art. All egos are checked at the door as we strive to give you expert quality instruction in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.
Sensei Daisuke Matsumoto, a 4th degree black belt, trained directly under the world-renowned Soshu Shigeru Oyama for many years. He completed the Uchi-deshi (Inside Pupil or live-in, full-time student) program for 5 years and competed in many tournaments before finally opening the WOKO Matsumoto Dojo in 2005. Sensei Daisuke’s teaching style is very unique, energetic and fun while still honoring the precision of traditional technique. He aims to pass on to his students the philosophies, spirit and skills that Soshu has passed on to him.
Sensei Don Mclean, a 4th degree black belt, is one of the original members of the Matsumoto Dojo. He started training with Soshu Shigeru Oyama in 1993, and over the years he helped with many of the promotion tests at WOKO headquarters, as well as the annual tournament, until Soshu retired in 2002. Sensei Don joined the Matsumoto dojo when it opened in 2005 and has been teaching here since. His dedication, skills and character have made him one of our most respected and popular teachers. He has won or placed in many tournaments for kumite, kata, and weapons.
Sensei Nancy Toyoshima, a 4th degree black belt, has been a student at World Oyama Karate since 1995. She began competing in tournaments sponsored both by WOKO and others in 1997, and still holds the record of finishing first in kata at every WOKO tournament from 1997-2001. As one of Soshu’s most trusted Black Belts, she has frequently represented WOKO in competitions and demonstrations outside the organization. She brings meticulously detailed instruction, a commitment to excellence and a deep passion for Karate, to her kata class.
Sensei Mark Malabrigo, a 4th degree black belt, has trained with Soshu Shigeru Oyama since 1986. He also trained in Jujitsu for five years and holds the rank of 2nd degree black belt in that style. He returned to train with Sensei Daisuke when the dojo opened and has been teaching since 2006. Along with providing traditional training, Sempai Mark teaches our conditioning, fighting, and self defense classes.
Senpai August Hearn, a 3rd degree black belt instructor at the Matsumoto Dojo. He started his training as Uchi-deshi under Grand Master Soshu Oyama from 1999-2002. He was heavy weight knock down champion 2005, 2006, 2010. He still trains and competes in tournaments.