DESA SCHOOL OF KARATE

Desa School of Karate opened as a full time traditional Okinawan karate school in September 1996.  After seven years in the basement of the St. Albert Rugby Club, the school (dojo) was relocated to its present location, designed and built by Sensei Manuel deSa (with much help from his students).

 

The main dojo, with 9000 square ft of space now includes a 3000 square ft matted workout area on the main floor and a 2000 square ft classroom on the second floor.  There are spacious change rooms with shower facilities for both men and women, welcoming office space and viewing benches and bleachers for guests.  Visitors are always welcome, whether it is to view a class they might be interested in taking or to just watch a friend or family member.

 

Having a facility open year round and designed specifically for martial arts training provides many benefits that other programs cannot offer.  With staff dedicated full time to teaching and monitoring the quality of instruction and the progress of each student, it is much easier to adjust the schedule to the changing needs of the student and maintain the high standard the school is known for worldwide.

 

The dojo also offers community programs in Sturgeon County (where Sensei Desa first started teaching in 1994).  There is an after school program at Camilla School in Riviere Qui Barre, and evening programs in Cardiff.

 

In addition, the school also offers classes in traditional Okinawan weapons, known as “kobudo”.  We offer special classes for 4-5 year old children (Kickstart), Ladies Self-defense workshops, and Kid Power Bully Defense, all done throughout the year. In addition special courses and workshops are set up that can be tailored to meet specific needs of different groups or organizations including schools from throughout the area who visit as part of their curriculum.