How the Stan Schmidt School of Karate came into existence, an article by Shihan Stan Schmidt:
I first visited Japan in 1963 where I trained at the Japan Karate Association HQ
On my return I established the Stan Schmidt School of Karate in Orange Grove.
This was the first JKA recognised Karate Dojo in South Africa – the Flagship of the Art of the Empty Hand.
Over the years I returned to Japan over 20 times for further training and upgrading.
The Stan Schmidt School of Karate moved location a number of times, ending up in Sandton.
Scores of top level Instructors and Gold Medalists were bred at this school. Many today are famous and have continued to hold up the banner of excellence. One of these champion teachers is Janine Friend who now owns and operates The Stan Schmidt School of Karate in Bryanston, Johannesburg.
After my retirement in 2010 it was with great pleasure that I selected and handed over the school to Sensei Janine .
Young and old aspiring students – from Beginner to Black Belt – could not be in better hands. Janine Friend – the current Chief Instructor of the Stan Schmidt School of Karate- has a CV record second to none; having captured gold medals in both Kata and Kumite in numerous South African and World Championships. She recently was promoted to the coveted black belt degree of 5th Dan which is recognised by the JKA Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. At 27 years of age she was one of the youngest South Africans to be awarded this high rank.
Karate is a highly skilled Art of Self Defence which gives the student – no matter what age – superb Fitness; Self Discipline and Confidence. Janine Friend is an experienced and excellent teacher in whom I have the utmost confidence.
May every student in her care be blessed abundantly. – Shihan Stan Schmidt
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