FOUNDER OF THE ACADEMY  

Master Instructor Sensei Con Kassis was a disciple of the famous Master Kenei Mabuni.

He traveled to Japan more than 50 times in his career to learn the art and secrets of Shitoryu Karate-Do, the traditional style of karate devised by the famous Kenwa Mabuni.

Soke Kenei Mabuni (son of Kenwa Mabuni) had accepted Sensei Con as his personal student.  This event changed his life dramatically as Soke Mabuni was the key that enhanced his understanding of karate significantly.  Sensei Con’s Dan grade and also Master Degree (Shihan) were issued and certified in Japan by Grand Master Kenei Mabuni.

Sensei Con was assistant author of the book Shitoryu Karate-Do by Kenei Mabuni 10th Dan (pictured below).  He also authored the book Shitoryu Karate-Do which was published in 2017.

Sensei Con devoted a great part of his life to the World Karate Federation (WKF) and became one of the world’s best referees.  A highlight in his career was his appointment as Chairperson of the WKF Referee Commission and Chairperson of the WKF Technical Commission.  Throughout his career he was invited by numerous countries in every continent of the globe to teach, guide and educate in all aspects of karate – from elite athletes, to coaches, referees and general karate practitioners.  

In his life span Sensei Con produced thousands of black belt students and multiple national and international champions.  Some of whom have returned after many years to bring their children to our academy.  He has had a profound impact on so many people’s lives, helping everyone who came in contact with him.  He is well remembered for his kind, gentle and humble nature as well as his expert knowledge of karate, in particular Shitoryu Karatedo.   His legacy continues through his dojo which is run in his honour under the expert guidance of wife and career partner Rosanna Kassis.