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The World Champions Karate Center, a cornerstone of the Rockaway community's martial arts tradition, embarks on a new journey as ZenTora (Japanese for Blissful Tiger). Under the respected Sensei Bruce, the center has long been synonymous with martial excellence and community spirit.
Now, as ZenTora, the commitment to these values remains strong, promising to build upon a legacy that goes well beyond karate techniques to include character-building and community service. The change to ZenTora reflects not only a renewed focus on unifying body, mind, and spirit through karate but also a nod to the future, as the dojo seeks to innovate while respecting its storied past.
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Sensei Bruce’s tenure has been characterized by his dedication to his students’ personal growth, a legacy that ZenTora is dedicated to continuing. In the spirit of continuity and dedication to the dojo's legacy, Sensei Mike will remain integral to ZenTora, a respected teacher with a passion for martial arts, a well-loved figure in the community. His decision to stay on ensures that the transition will be seamless and that the dojo’s culture and values will be preserved.
ZenTora is set to maintain a broad array of programs, suitable for everyone from beginner to advanced students, with an emphasis on the development of character and community involvement that has been the hallmark of Sensei Bruce’s approach.
As ZenTora opens its doors, it carries the torch of its predecessor proudly. It is not just the beginning of a new chapter; it's a continuation of a journey towards a future rich with possibilities, supported by the dedication of Sensei Bruce, and bolstered by the continued presence of beloved Sensei Mike.
Q: What was the inspiration behind starting your karate journey and the founding of the World Champions Karate Center?
A: The inspiration for learning Karate came from the fact that in karate, you could spar with someone and shake their hands afterward. It wasn’t about hurting someone; it was about movement and trying techniques. I first started teaching in 1972 in my home’s basement. Then in 1980 I founded the World ChampionsKarate Center. Since several from my students went overseas and won championships, it inspired me to name it World Champions Karate Center and that's where the name came from.
Q: Can you tell us about your journey in martial arts and how you began teaching?
A: My journey began in 1962 at a school in Hempstead, NY, led by an Okinawan Sensei Ansei Ueshiro. I was captivated by the camaraderie and respect among practitioners. Later, I trained under John Slocum at Samurai Dojo, a very traditional setting with strict teaching. When the dojo closed I took over and continued instruction. We didn’t have electricity for several months, so I taught with a candlelight, which was quite an experience.
Q: Can you tell us about your current rank in Karate?
I am proud to be a student of Sensei Ray Dalke who has awarded me an eight dan in Shotokan, as my journey will continue.
Q: What were the significant milestones for the World Champions Karate Center under your leadership?
A: The most significant achievement was my personal one. The ability to stay in karate all these years. Martial arts intrigued me in my youth, and despite injuries, I never stopped teaching or training and my commitment encouraged me to continue training up to these days.
Q: How would you describe your philosophy on martial arts and its role in personal and community development?
A: Martial arts is a mental trip. As you grow older, the mental aspects develop more and more, teaching you to never give up and to keep striving. This mind set has made me stronger as a person and has been invaluable in my teaching career, as well as in personal life.
Q: What has been your approach to building champions and nurturing talent in your students?
A: I focused on keeping students engaged and happy. We had a reward system, which insetivized students to strive for higher ranks. In addition, as a part of karate training, students had opportunities to develop confidence and teaching skills through their commitment to training.
Q: What prompted the transition from World Champions Karate Center to ZenTora?
A: I am moving to South Carolina, so I decided to pass my legacy on to other local people. The ZenTora name change doesn't bother me since I am no longer in charge. While the World Champions name is iconic in Rockaway, it's up to the new owners to decide its use, but I think it is a good idea for them to keep the name on the side.
Q: How do you feel about leaving Rockaway?
A: I may be leaving Rockaway, but I'm not leaving karate. Wherever we go, we will start a new dojo. Also, I am only a phone call away, so I can preserve my ties with people that matter to me.
Q: Can you share insights into how your experience with Tai Chi influenced your karate technique?
A: My Tai Chi practice, especially learning from Alex Hon Ho-Phang, combined with karate allowed me to explore other areas of martial arts. After a seamingly negative event – a rotator cuff injury, I discovered faster hand speed by using hip technique "hara" enhanced by Tai Chi. So my injury was a blessing in disguise. I also developed other techniques within Shotokan which were brought forth by my study of Tai Chi.
Q: Tell us a few words about Sensei Mike and Miss Rosa.
A: Mike has excellent Kata techniques and knowledge, and as you plan to include meditation in your approach, he will be able to provide those as well. Rosa is a reliable and efficient person. They are both great.
Q: What final message would you like to leave for us at ZenTora, your students and the martial arts community?
A: I always tried to get more out of my students than they realized they had. Never give up! Keep going no matter what. It's a message that has driven me and one I hope to impart to all my students.
Interviewed on March 24, 2024