At A.O.K.A. (American Okinawan Karate Academy) we teach Traditional Isshinryu Karate and Self-Defense. Our goal at A.O.K.A. is to teach Self-Defense, Self-Control, Respect, Honor, Discipline, Humility, Confidence and Self-Esteem. We view Karate as more than a fighting art. To us it is a way of life. We strive to take the lessons we learn in class and apply them to our lives in an effort to find balance. As in Karate, balance is key in life.
We are all here to improve our lives. Each one of us enters the Dojo for our own personal reasons, however, while we are in the Dojo, we have a common goal. That is to help each other grow in Karate. As you grow in Karate you will notice it merging into every aspect of your life. At A.O.K.A. you earn your rank through hard work and perseverance. The curriculum is self-defense based. We focus on teaching kata (also known as forms), self-defense techniques, kumite (sparring). Students are also expected to study the karate notebooks we provide them which contains historical information and written information about our style of karate. The curriculum is quite comprehensive. Additionally, American Okinawan Karate Academy was founded by Grand Master Arnold R. Sandubrae, Ku-Dan/Hanshi, in Palm Springs, California. Hanshi Sandubrae has given permission to his Grandson, Master Aaron R. Sandubrae, Shichi-Dan/ Shihan, to open American Okinawan Karate Academy LLC d.b.a. Isshinryu Karate Sandubrae in Piedmont, Oklahoma. A.O.K.A. is Oklahoma's only Dojo that is solely dedicated to Isshinryu Karate. Sandubrae Shihan is proud to expand the Sandubrae Karate Family and further the art of Isshinryu Karate. He will strive every day to walk the path laid before him by his Sensei and Grandfather and honor the legacy of Chief Grand Master Tatsuo Shimabuku.