Australasian Federation of Traditional Karate & Kobudo (AFTK)
Our Affiliation with the Australasian Federation of Traditional Karate & Kobudo (AFTK)
At Karate Academy Sydney (KAS), we are proud members of the Australasian Federation of Traditional Karate & Kobudo (AFTK), an esteemed organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional martial arts across Australasia.
About the AFTK
Established in 1999, the AFTK serves as a unifying body for traditional karate and kobudo practitioners throughout Australia and New Zealand. With over 150 member dojos, the federation fosters a collaborative community that emphasises:
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Technical Excellence: Encouraging high standards in martial arts practice and instruction.
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Professional Practice: Supporting instructors and dojos in delivering quality programs.
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Collaborative Advancement: Facilitating networking and shared learning opportunities among members.
The AFTK is inclusive, welcoming members from all traditional styles and backgrounds who are committed to training in the spirit of karate and kobudo.
Benefits of Our Membership
Our affiliation with the AFTK provides KAS with access to a wealth of resources and opportunities, including:
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National Seminar Series: Participation in state and national seminars led by esteemed instructors.
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Instructor Certification: Access to recognised certification programs for teaching professionals.
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Dan Grading: Opportunities for students to achieve recognised black belt rankings.
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Networking: Connections with a broad community of traditional martial artists.
These benefits enhance our dojo’s offerings and ensure that our students receive instruction that aligns with the highest standards of traditional martial arts.
Commitment to Traditional Martial Arts
Through our membership in the AFTK, KAS reaffirms its dedication to the values and practices that define traditional karate and kobudo. We are committed to fostering an environment where students can grow in discipline, respect, and technical skill, contributing to our region’s vibrant martial arts community.
For more information about the Australasian Federation of Traditional Karate & Kobudo, please visit their official website: aftk.org.au
accomplishments
Sensei- Instructor
- 3rd Dan Black Belt Goju Ryu Seiwakai
- 3rd Dan Black Belt JKF Goju Kai (All Japan Karate Federation)
- 3rd Dan Black Belt Ryukyu Shimbukan Kobudo
- Senior First Aid
- WWCC
At the young age of 6, Chris embarked on his karate journey in 2007 under the expert tutelage of Pat Drago Shihan, specialising in Goju-Ryu. He honed his skills early on, participating in numerous Koshiki tournaments across locations such as Barrel and Picton.
In 2013, Chris embraced new challenges by joining Seiwakai under Glenn Stephenson Shihan, advancing through inter-club tournaments and gaining valuable competitive experience. His progression through the Dan ranks was guided by Jessica Vetrisano Sensei, whose mentorship has been pivotal in shaping him into the accomplished karateka he is today.
He has competed at the highest levels, qualifying for the JKF (Japanese Karate Federation) World Tournament held in Osaka (2023), Okinawa (2024), and placing top 8 in Sendai (2025)—marks of his elite skill and relentless pursuit of excellence.
In addition to Goju Ryu Karate, Chris has immersed himself in Ryukyu Shimbukan Kobudo under the mentorship of Hiroshi Akamine Kaicho and Dell Hamby Kyoshi, enriching his understanding of traditional Okinawan martial arts.
This year, Chris proudly joined the NSW Karate State Team and competed at the 2025 Karate Australia National Championships in Adelaide, South Australia, where he claimed 3rd place—a remarkable achievement on the national stage.
As a proud member of Karate Australia (the Australian Karate Federation), Chris continues to embody the spirit of the martial art—dedicated, growing, and inspiring.
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The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants- Gichin Funokoshi