University of Washington Dojo

In 1985, Ohshima Sensei wrote in the newsletter that SKA needed to ensure the transmission of our Karate-Do by recruiting new members as well as maintaining the strong "old-timers". That winter, at the annual Seattle dojos meeting, Ron Thom asked those members who were students to establish a university club. Tom Parsons and Maryann Helferty registered the Shotokan Karate Club at the University of Washington as a student organization. In fall of 1986, Ron Thom and Phil Morgan helped launch the club with their instruction, and then asked Kerry Copeland and Tom Parsons to lead the dojo.

Soon the dojo became recognized as part of the Recreational Sports Program, and offered a beginning karate class to thirty new students each quarter. Of course, many students left after the traditional pizza party celebrating their graduation from the seven week class, but a few crazy ones stayed each year. It is through these members and the instructors dedicated to teaching them that the dojo grew to become a leading martial arts club at the university.

Change is one constant for university clubs as members complete their studies and graduate or new members relocate. Several SKA black belts, including Tom Robinson, Maryann Helferty, JohnGosink and Steve Roe, have assisted as co-instructors for the club. Through these years, Kerry Copeland has continued to serve as an instructor for the club, and it is largely through her support, effort and inspiration that the dojo has remained strong.

Over the past nine years, the facilities at the University of Washington.have proven a good place for tournaments and exchange practices. Between organizing these events, sharing life at the University, and enjoying spirited practices, the people at this dojo have learned to share not only karate practice but friendship.