Each month the US Yoshukai Karate Association will recognize the hard work and dedication of one of our students. A different student will be selected each month from our different dojos. The spotlight will give some insight into the student's journey, life, their goals and what they like best about US Yoshukai Karate. Each month instructors will nominate students for the "Student Spotlight" and we cannot wait to share their stories!
Mr. Drew Meaux is a Shodan (1st degree Black Belt) at the Kentucky Dojo. He began studying US Yoshukai Karate in 2020 under Shihan Shinji Matsuda. His favorite kata is Seisan and his weapon of choice is the Nunchakus. His favorite activity in karate is learning new weapons and forms.
Shihan Shinji Matsuda!
Mr. Meaux's goals in karate began with obtaining his black belt. Since reaching that goal he strives to become better and continue learning new things. "For right now that is learning to obtain my Nidan, but it will probably not stop there."
"I enjoy the sense of community it fosters, I love my karate family, along with the discipline and confidence that grows within those that take the time to put the effort in. I like watching us all grow and looking back on the progress we've made as martial artists."
Mr. Meaux works as the Head of Operations at an IT company. He enjoys archery, reading, adventures with his friends, and traveling.
Mr. Meaux has been a great asset for US Yoshukai Karate Kentucky. He never misses classes and always helps with classes. I can not operate the dojo without him. All the kids love him because of his personality! I know not many people practice outside of the dojo, but Mr. Meaux goes to the park during his lunch break and practices! I always tell everyone that more practice will help them to improve and he definitely shows that is true. Mr. Drew is instrumental in assisting in the planning of our annual tournament with his knowledge of IT, he provides all the information for the online registration.
I am super lucky to have him in my dojo and I can not wait to see his accomplishments in the future in US Yoshukai Karate!
Shihan Shinji Matsuda
Each month the US Yoshukai Karate Association will recognize the hard work and dedication of one of our students. A different student will be selected each month from our different dojos. The spotlight will give some insight into the student's journey, life, their goals and what they like best about US Yoshukai Karate. Each month instructors will nominate students for the "Student Spotlight" and we cannot wait to share their stories!
Mrs. Davis is a Nidan (2nd degree Black Belt) at the Honbu Dojo in Montgomery, Alabama. She began studying US Yoshukai Karate at the Pike road Dojo in 2017 under Soshu Koda. Her favorite kata is Seisan and her weapon of choice is the Bo. Her favorite activity in karate is breaking boards.
Soshu David Koda!
Mrs. Davis's goal in karate was to achieve her Black Belt. She has surpassed that goal by achieving Nidan and is currently training to test for he Sandan. Learning new material and advancing is always a wonderful goal!
"The sense of confidence it can give everyone, no matter what level. Also, I am allowed, even encouraged, to yell as loud as I can!"
Mrs. Davis enjoys teaching Math (she is a veteran teacher with Montgomery Public Schools), Hallmark movies, Escape Games, puzzles, and karaoke.
I have enjoyed having Mrs. Davis in class for the past seven years. She is a major asset to the class with her energy, enthusiasm, and spirit. She is an excellent teacher and provides great guidance to the other students in what it means to be a US Yoshukai Student. She is a leader and a cheerleader for other students. She always comes to class with a positive attitude and is excited to learn new material. After achieving her Black Belt Mrs. Davis has been a great support to the dojo by helping teach class and even covering classes when necessary. Every dojo should be lucky enough to have a Mrs. Davis in class! - Soshu David Koda