Sensei Russell Humphreys

4th Dan

Sensei Russell is a 4th Dan Karate-ka, has been teaching karate for over 15 years and is the chief instructor at Karate Byford. Having started his karate journey in his 20's, he believes that consistent and honest training has kept him fit in both mind and body. He believes Karate is for everyone and loves watching students evolve through their own Karate journey.

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As a child I had always been involved in team sports but as I got older, I wanted to do something just for me. I did a few fitness classes but really found a passion for Karate. My goal is to pass that passion on to others

Senpai Shane Patulny

1st Dan

Senpai Shane has practiced a number of martial arts over the years and earned his black belt in the full contact style of kyokushin Karate. Senpai Shane is fully committed to his training and enjoys training with his son Nate. He loves to spar and specialises in the use of body weight behind every technique. 

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I believe people should try their best at everything they do. Karate training is a great way to learn that life lesson. I also enjoy the social side of training at Karate Byford. I want my son to be a part of an honest community as he grows up"

Senpai Jessica Humphreys

Brown belt

Jessica is a qualified early childhood teacher and helps with the training of the Tiger Cubs and junior students. Her training began when she was very young so she understands the challenges that young students and parents face to keep up the motivation in todays world.

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For as long as I can remember Karate has been practiced in my house. Even then, finding the motivation as a child with so much other stuff going on was a challenge. Having grown up, I now understand the importance of my training not just for self defence but for the lessons about respect and self confidence. Knowing that if I keep trying hard, I can make it."

Senpai Gavin Mair

1st Dan

Senpai Gavin earned his black belt in the late nineties and had some great success in the tournament scene of that time. Senpai Gavin has a passion for Karate and is the recognised tournament coach at the Byford Dojo specialising in kumite. Originating from the country, Gavin is a hard worker and pushes students to be their best. 

 

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Training in Japan was one of the best experiences of my life. It's was incredibly hard but at the same time, incredibly rewarding. Australia was built on hard work and to be successful in Karate is no different"

Shihan Keiji Tomiyama

8th Dan

Shihan Tomiyama is the Tani-Ha Shito-Ryu Kofukan Karate International Inc. head of style and visits Australia annually. He is an original student of Master Chojiro Tani and has trained in boxing, Shito-ryu, Goju-Ryu and Uechi-Ryu.

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Personally I am trying to achieve as high a level as possible according to Japanese Budo principles and then to help others to follow suit.  As an organization, I want to cultivate skilled, knowledgeable and well-rounded people who are respectable members of society.  I believe this purpose is exactly the same as when Master Tani started his Karate organization in 1949."