Funakoshi Karate International
Master Gichin Funakoshi, considered the founder of modern day karate, wrote in his teachings “Karate-Do, My Life” and “Kyohan Karate-Do”, many wonderful things. He explained that karate must constantly be improved, modified and changed in order to retain its integrity, vigour and life.
Edwin James Ward started his martial arts career in South Africa in 1958. He studied under many of the top martial arts masters in various styles and disciplines in Japan. Edwin favoured the Shotokan style of karate, but recognised the need for future development. In 1966 Edwin started the development of his own karate style and in honour of Gichin Funakoshi named the style Funakoshi Ryu.
Although many advancements have been made in the history of Funakoshi Ryu style, we still adhere to the traditional Bushido ethics. The Funakoshi Ryu style of karate has proved itself in local and international tournaments with excellent results. Funakoshi Karate International is practised in many countries around the world.
Funakoshi Karate International Australia (FKIA) was first established in Australia by Sensei Frank McKenzie in January 1996. The style is now a recognised member of the Australian Karate Federation (AKF), and through the AKF the World Karate Federation (WKF).
Funakoshi Karate Australia has the following objectives:
- Retain the traditional Funakoshi Karate ethics of structured discipline, basics, kata and kumite
- Enjoy increased recognition, respect and growth as a martial arts leader in Victoria, expanding in time further afield
- Recognise and encourage individual goals, whether competitive, for self-improvement, martial arts weapons, non-competitive, self-defense, non-contact karate etc
- Interact with instructors and students from other local, regional, national and international martial arts styles
- ‘Import’ international guest instructors from within the Funakoshi style and other styles, and embrace the positive ideas and concepts from other styles
- Provide opportunities for continued training and skills development (coaching, refereeing, first aid) for our members
