About Us
Charles Fink, Shihan
Chief Instructor Charles Fink has been practicing karate since 1994 and teaching since 2002. He holds the rank of Rokkudan (6th level black belt), an instructor’s license (Shihan, Renshi), and NCCP Certification. Adhering to high standards of coaching and pedagogy, Fink Shihan stays abreast of the latest developments in martial arts and sport science and continually strives to find and develop innovative ways to practice and teach karate.
Shihan has a B.A. in Psychology and a B.Ed. (P/J) from Laurentian University, a M.Ed. in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Calgary, and is currently working towards a Ph.D. in Human Kinetics. When not practicing karate, he teaches at Laurentian University, Cambrian College, and Collège Boréal. He is happily married and the proud father of two.
Fink Shihan est parfaitement bilingue. Il lui fera plaîsir de vous adresser en français.
Learn more about Charles Fink Sensei here.
Craig Vokey, Shihan
Craig Vokey began his karate training in 1984. He currently holds the rank of Nanadan and a Shihan, Kyoshi licence. In 1994 he founded the Laurentian University Karate Club (where Charles Fink trained) and now serves as a master instructor and advisor at the Charles Fink Karate Dojo.
Vokey Shihan is the President of Goshukan Canada and President of Seiwakai Pan-America. He is also President of Karate Canada and holds a number of positions in the World Karate Federation. Although Shihan’s professional obligations require considerable travel, he still finds the time to share his expertise and passion for karate with all dojo members.
Karissa Neeley, Kakyū Kyõshi
Karissa has been training at the Charles Fink Karate Dojo since 2021 and now serves as Jr. Coach. She brings a wealth of experience from dance and gymnastics and is pursuing her studies to become a teacher.
A natural educator, Karissa brings a ton of positive energy to everything she does; she is the perfect person to spearhead our Kodomo (small children) program. Karissa est parfaitement bilingue. Il lui fera plaîsir de vous adresser en français.
Our Style
We practice Goju Ryu Karatedo. Our curriculum, cultural heritage, and authentic techniques stem directly from Masters Gōgen Yamaguchi and Shuji Tasaki under the guidance of Seiichi Fujuwara, Hanshi.
We are members of Canada Goshukan, the Seiwa Kai, and the JKF Gojukai. We also belong to the Karate Ontario, Karate Canada, and the World Karate Federation.
The Dojo
The Dojo’s main objective is to provide an opportunity for all members of the community to experience this classical form of Japanese karate in a safe and collegial setting.
Karate is an individual pursuit. Each student advances at his or her own pace. However, the journey is much more pleasant in the company of others. We hope you will enjoy training and that the skills and friends you acquire here will last you a lifetime.
Facilities
Conveniently located behind Tim Horton’s on Falconbridge Hwy. in Garson, the dojo provides a clean and safe environment for teaching and learning. While spacious enough for practice, the limited size of the training space ensures small class sizes.
There are clean and accessible change/washroom facilities on site as well as ample free parking. A viewing area allows parents, loved ones, and other visitors to spectate.
