Karateka at a young age, under the guidance of his father, Kancho Heiji Tada. He trained diligently and eventually became the successor of Seishikan Karate-Do after his father's passing. Kancho Shohei Tada has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the art of Goju-Ryu Karate.
Seishikan Karate-Do, located in Smithfield, is a prestigious karate school that is an active member of both the Australian Karate Federation (AKF) and the New South Wales Karate Federation. The school follows a fully accredited style of martial art, with black belts issued directly from Japan. The instructors at Seishikan Karate-Do hold Level 1 Coaching Accreditation and have trained for many years, gaining extensive experience and actively participating in tournaments.
Shihan George Wilson is the Chief Instructor of Seishikan Karate-Do. He has been training in karate since 1967 and has played a pivotal role in the development and growth of the dojo. Shihan George, who also serves as the Deputy President of the NSW Karate Federation and an Australian Karate Federation Referee, was appointed as the Seishikan Club manager by the late John Newman in 1982. He has carried out this responsibility diligently, ensuring that Seishikan remains active and thriving.
Assisting Shihan George in the dojo are Sempai Nikolas Ojvan and Sempai Loana Hoang, both highly skilled and dedicated instructors. Nikolas is a third Dan (San Dan) Black Belt and has been training since 2008. He provides valuable assistance to Shihan George and holds a Level One National Coaching Accreditation. Loana, a second Dan (Ni Dan) Black Belt, has been training since 2003 and also holds a Level One National Coaching Accreditation.
Together, they contribute to the learning and growth of all students at Seishikan Karate-Do.
The history of Seishikan Karate-Do traces back to its founder, the late John Newman M. P. The dojo was founded in February 1971, and John Newman served as the head of Seishikan until his untimely death in September 1994. Throughout his life, John Newman dedicated himself to the practise and promotion of karate.
He attained the rank of Roku Dan (6th Dan) black belt and served as the president of the Australian Karate Federation for fifteen years.
Goju-Ryu, the style of karate taught at Seishikan Karate-Do, has a rich history. It was developed by Chojun Miyagi, who began practising karate at the age of nine and went on to combine elements of Pa kua and Shaolin into his own style. In 1929, his style was officially named Goju Ryu. Meitoku Yagi, one of Miyagi's notable students, went on to establish his own school called Goju Ryu Meibukan after Miyagi's passing.
Kancho Heiji Tada, another influential figure in the world of karate, founded the Seishikan organisation in 1949 with the aim of upholding the spirit of the Japanese people. The name “Seishikan” translates to “House of True Will,” reflecting the values and mission of the organisation.
Seishikan Karate-Do in Smithfield is proud to continue the legacy of these great masters and to provide a nurturing and empowering environment for students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, Seishikan Karate-Do welcomes you to join their community and embark on a journey of self-discovery, discipline, and personal growth through the practise of traditional Goju-Ryu Karate.