FAQs
Our dojo is at 9959 Warwick Blvd in Newport News, VA 23601. Families train with us from across the Peninsula and Hampton Roads, including Newport News, Hampton, York County, Poquoson, Williamsburg, Norfolk and Virginia Beach.
We teach traditional Okinawan Shorin-ryu Shorinkan karate. Its lineage traces back more than 500 years to Okinawa, and our association is led by Sensei Minoru Nakazato. You can read more about our roots on our Our Art page.
Classes are usually led by Sensei John “Moose” Axsom, our Head Instructor and Owner. He has trained in traditional Okinawan karate since he was 6 years old, holds a 7th Degree Black Belt in Karate. If not led by Sensei Moose, classes are led by our assistant instructors, all black belts and more than capable!
We offer Mighty Mites for ages 3 and 4, Moose Juniors for ages 5 to 7, Power Kids for ages 8 to 12, Teen Martial Arts, and Adult Martial Arts.
Children can start as young as 3 in our Mighty Mites program. These classes are designed for 3 and 4 year olds and focus on listening skills, coordination and confidence in a fun setting.
Yes. Our instructors are experienced working with children of all abilities and ages. Your child learns at a pace that has been proven to succeed, in an environment that puts their physical safety first.
No. Martial arts has its roots in self defense, but we teach children that violence is not the answer to their problems. Students learn focus, discipline, self control and respect.
Yes. Our Power Kids program takes self protection seriously, teaching kids the skills to stay safe in any circumstance, from the neighborhood bully to a stranger on the street. We hope they never need it, but they will be ready.
No experience is needed. Our programs welcome students at every level, including complete beginners. Kids and adults alike progress at their own pace.
Yes. Our Adult Martial Arts program welcomes beginners and experienced students. Adults learn practical self defense while building strength, flexibility and mental clarity, and many find training a great way to manage stress.
Students who want to compete can join AAU Karate Virginia, which offers traditional karate competition for men, women and children of all ages, ranks and abilities. Sensei Moose is Head Coach for the AAU Karate National Team, and our dojo hosts the Bull-Moose Invitational tournament.
Family matters most to us. We build each other up as a team, and we celebrate our students and parents with events like pool parties, beach days, outdoor training and holiday parties.
Fill out the form on this page with your name, email, phone number and the program you are interested in. Our team will reach out to answer your questions and help you find the right class for you or your child.