About us
About Karate Academy Sydney
Karate Academy Sydney (KAS) is a family-owned and operated martial arts dojo proudly serving Kingsgrove and surrounding communities since 2014. We specialise in traditional Goju Ryu Karate, a powerful and effective martial art founded by the legendary Chojun Miyagi Sensei.
At KAS, we are committed to preserving the tradition and discipline of Japanese martial arts while creating a welcoming, inclusive, and inspiring environment for all students, from beginners to black belts.
Our Affiliations & Lineage
We are proud members of some of the most respected karate and kobudo organisations in the world:
- Australian Karate Federation (AKF) – The national governing body for karate in Australia, recognised by the WKF and Australian Olympic Committee
- Japan Karate Federation (JKF) Goju Kai – Offering students the opportunity to grade and compete in Japan
- Seiwakai International – Led by Seiichi Fujiwara Hanshi, maintaining technical excellence in Goju Ryu Karate
- Ryukyu Shimbukan Kobudo – Preserving authentic Okinawan weapons training under Hiroshi Akamine Kaicho
- Australasian Federation of Traditional Karate & Kobudo (AFTK) – Promoting the continued growth of traditional martial arts in our region
Why Train at Karate Academy Sydney?
Expert Instruction
Our black belt instructors hold internationally recognised qualifications through both Seiwakai and JKF Goju Kai, and attend yearly technical seminars and gradings in Japan and Australia to maintain high standards across all programs.
Traditional and Modern Training
We combine traditional Goju Ryu Karate with Ryukyu Shimbukan Kobudo, giving students access to both unarmed self-defence and traditional weapons training in one complete system.
Safe and Inclusive Environment
We welcome children, teens, adults, and individuals with additional needs in a supportive environment built on respect, safety, and personal achievement.
Comprehensive Programs
- Children’s Karate (starting from age 4)
- Teen and Adult Karate
- Black Belt Development
- Kobudo (Okinawan weapons training)
- Ensofit Boxing & Fitness – Functional fitness and boxing-based training for strength, cardio, and confidence
- Elite Competition Training Squad
onsite martial arts programs
We proudly deliver martial arts and fitness training to the wider community with our onsite programs, tailored for:
- Early Learning Centres – Fun, movement-based classes that build confidence and coordination
- Primary & High Schools – Values-based programs focusing on discipline, self-control, and teamwork
- Businesses & Corporate Wellness – Stress-relief, team building, and fitness sessions tailored for staff
Each session is led by qualified, experienced instructors and designed to suit the goals of your school or organisation.
karate birthday parties for kids
Introduce your child and their friends to the fun and excitement of karate with our high-energy birthday parties!
Our parties are:
- Designed to be active, fun, and memorable
- Led by our friendly black belt instructors
- Focused on teamwork, confidence, and life skills
- Perfect for children new to martial arts
It’s a unique way to celebrate while learning basic karate moves and having a blast!
tournament pathways
As part of the AKF and JKF, our students compete in:
- NSW State Championships
- NSW Cup
- NSW Open Championships
- NSW All Styles Karate Championships
- Australian Open
Our exclusive tournament squad trains toward qualifying for the NSW State Team, with pathways to the Oceania Championships and JKF-sanctioned international events in Japan.
kobudo weapons training
Our kobudo program includes training in:
- Bo (staff)
- Sai (trident)
- Tonfa (baton)
- Nunchaku
… and more, through the traditional Ryukyu Shimbukan Kobudo system, taught under direct lineage from Okinawa.
giving back to the community
At Karate Academy Sydney, we believe in using our platform for good. Our team proudly participates in raising awareness and supporting charitable causes, including:
- Leukemia Foundation
- Breast Cancer Awareness
- Neuroblastoma Research
- Heart Foundation
- Hearing Awareness
- …and many more important community campaigns
Through events, training days, and fundraising initiatives, we teach our students that strength is not only physical, it’s also about compassion, leadership, and community spirit.
a dojo with a heart
KAS is more than a place to train — it’s a community. Built on the values of respect, discipline, and continuous growth, we help students of all ages and abilities discover their strength, confidence, and character.
start your journey with us today!
Whether you’re looking to build confidence, learn self-defence, compete nationally, or simply get fit in a welcoming environment, Karate Academy Sydney is here to guide you every step of the way.
“The ultimate aim of karate-do is to build character, conquer human misery, and find spiritual freedom.”
— Chōjun Miyagi
Learn more about us
OUR INSTRUCTORS
Jessica Vetrisano
Sensei – Chief Instructor
Jessica is a member of KAJ Goju Ryu Seiwakai Australia (Karate Academy of Japan), Goju Ryu Karate Do Seiwakai Australia.
Chris Vetrisano
Sensei- Instructor
At the young age of 6, Chris embarked on his karate journey under the expert tutelage of Pat Drago Shihan in 2007, specializing in Goju Ryu.
Alex Vetrisano
Sensei- Instructor
At the tender age of 4 and a half, Alex embarked on his martial arts journey in Gojuryu, under the expert guidance of Pat Drago Shihan in 2007.
Monique Fatseas
Sensei- Instructor
Monique first started her martial arts journey with Jessica Vetrisano Sensei at Karate Academy Bexley in 2014. Monique has entered many interclub tournaments placing in every one of them.
SABRINA VETRISANO
Sensei- Instructor
Sabrina began her karate journey at a very young age of 4 years. She attended classes with her mum and brothers. Over the years she has entered in many tournaments receiving State Titles in karate and Kobudo
RYUKYU KOBUDO SHIMBUKAN
Instructors – Chris Vetrisano & Jessica Vetrisano
– 2nd Dan Black Belt Ryukyu Kobudo Shimbukan.
Instructors make trips to Okinawa to grade and keep up to date with their Kobudo training, under the guidance of Akamine Kaicho.
Without questions, there is no learning
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Goju Ryu Karate?
Goju Ryu Karate is a traditional hard/soft style karate developed by Chojun Miyagi Sensei and practiced at Karate Academy Sydney.
What are your operating times?
The dojo is open from Monday to Thursday offering 4pm – 8.30pm and Saturdays 9am- 12pm.
Can I book private lessons?
Yes, we offer private lessons, we will work with you to achieve your goal.
How do I cancel my membership?
By enrolling with the Karate Academy Sydney, you are committing to each of the classes you have chosen. These classes are charged fortnightly. Class numbers are limited, therefore as a courtesy, we ask, for a minimum of 2 weeks notice of discontinuance via email.
How do I book a place in a class?
Once you have completed the waiver, you will receive a booking number and link to book all your desired classes.
Can I bring my family members to the dojo?
Definitely. We encourage all families to join. We even offer family discounts. Talk to us today!
Is the dojo for hire?
Yes. We have the space available for seminars and yoga/pilates classes. Call us or send us an email with your enquiry.
Do you offer kids parties?
Yes. We offer kids parties Saturday and Sundays. Your child will be the Sensei and Master of the Dojo! Check out our Kids Party Page for more information.
accomplishments
4 class plus a FREE Uniform
SIGN UP TODAY!
$39.99
The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants- Gichin Funokoshi