Southwest Chicago Shotokan

On Thursday, September 20th, we hosted a free self defense clinic for members of the surrounding community. The goal of the clinic was to educate people on how to avoid dangerous situations, and how to escape a dangerous situation if you found yourself in one. We kicked things off by going over some very practical […]

We had a couple of visitors at practice last night. New friend Todd McGeorge from Idaho joined as, as well as old friend and U.S. team member Greg Metzgar from Salt Lake City. We had a great practice, focusing on oi-zuki and free one attack sparring. It’s always great to see our friends from across […]

John, Jeff, and Marty spent the evening practicing combination basics and doing some free sparring drills to help prepare for the upcoming Memphis Jiyu Kumite Practice and Tournament.

We are busy preparing ourselves for the annual Memphis Jiyu Kumite Practice and Tournament in October. Lots of combinations, drills, and matches!

Southwest Chicago Shotokan will be hosting a self defense clinic. See the poster below for details. Also, please see the Facebook Event for the clinic for a collection of helpful safety tips.

A huge thank you to Godan Dom Pizoli for leading a fantastic set of practices the weekend of June 30 – July 1.

Members of Southwest Chicago Shotokan, along with other karateka from around the Midwest, after the final practice of Midwest Summer Special Training 2018 in St. Joseph, MO.

John Wood chasing down an opponent during sanbon kumite practice at Summer Special Training in St. Joseph, MO.

Chicago area senior and instructor Steve Binette was promoted to the rank of sandan (3rd degree black belt) over the weekend in recognition of his leadership, strong spirit, and technical ability.

John, Jeff, and Marty practice Iai Kumite, which is one time sparring at the closest ma (distance). The attacks come quick, therefore a clam, focused mind is required in order to not only avoid the attack, but get in with a counter attack as well.