Anko Itosu introduced Karate to the Okinawan school system in 1901 after noticing how karate students lived long lives. This transformed the little-known art into a popular exercise for large groups of young adults. To make Karate safer and easier to learn, Itosu focused on fitness and character instead of self-defense.

Gichin Funakoshi, a student of Itosu’s, introduced Karate to Japan in 1921, Like Itosu, Funakoshi sought to instill discipline and good morals through perfection of technique, not self -defense. His students came to call his art Shotokan.

Jigaro Kano helped Funakoshi introduce Shotokan into the Japanese school system. At the age of 23, Kano created his own style called Judo—a safer version of Jiu-Jitsu. In 1924, Funakoshi adopted Judo’s white uniforms and belt system for Karate.

The first Shotokan Karate tournament was held in 1957, prompting many changes in technique to highlight the sports application of Karate.

Parents were drawn to Sensei Dawn's age-appropriate curriculum and "love-based" teaching method which balanced discipline, positive dialog, and fun!

In 1995, Sensei Dawn opened her first school. Following in the steps of Itosu, Kano, and Funakoshi, she focused on “life-skills” such as honesty, kindness, and courage.

In 2001, by popular demand, she began expanding Karate Kids to multiple locations. Her success in inspiring children led to Sensei Dawn being asked to mentor other teachers across the country through lectures, advice columns, instructional manuals, and DVDs. Sensei Dawn is also the author of Scholastic's successful book series titled, The Black Belt Club.

In 2006, Sensei Dawn was inducted into the Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame for her contributions to the martial arts.

In 2010, after more than 20 years of teaching children, Sensei Dawn founded Gozen Karate, the world's first “child-style” of martial arts.

Today, has one mission:

To be the best martial arts school for children in the world!

Gozen recognizes that a child's body is not the same as an adult's. Many traditional techniques are confusing and physically difficult for a child to perform correctly. But with some subtle adjustments, children can learn faster and have more fun!

Sensei Dawn also put the emphasis back on self-defense over sports training... especially after one of her black belt students was hurt by a bully. Determined to offer her students more, she designed a list of child- friendly, playground-appropriate techniques that empowered kids to escape danger without being aggressive.

Gozen includes Karate techniques for self-defense, grappling for ground escapes, fitness drills for strength, competition to face fears, a mentoring program for leadership, and manners training for social skill development.

In short, Gozen has it all! It inspires self- esteem,builds strong character, and prepares students to face life’s challenges.

• TRY THEIR BEST! It doesn’t matter if they’re sad, tired, hungry, or scared... they always find the courage to persevere. Osu!

• SHOW GOOD RESPECT! They say “Yes, Sir” and “Yes, Ma’am” to grown-ups. They are neat and clean, help around the house, and use good manners with everyone they meet.

  

• FOCUS! They know that watching and listening are the secrets to learning.

• LEARN FROM MISTAKES! They know making mistakes is the best way to learn something new. That’s why they win and lose with Good Spirit.
• PROTECT THEIR CIRCLE OF POWER! They use voice and body to set boundaries and defend personal space. If someone crosses their boundaries, they move away. If they can’t move away, they hold them back with the power of Gozen Karate.

• LIVE HONESTLY! They tell the truth and keep promises so that everyone knows they are trustworthy.

• MAKE HEALTHY CHOICES! They know fresh foods, lots of exercise, and a good night’s sleep will keep mind and body strong.

• ACT AS A LEADER! They have the confidence to make their own decisions. When someone makes them feel uncomfortable, or is doing something they know isn’t right, they have the power to say “no.”

• STAND TALL! They make friends and scare the bullies away by looking people in the eye and using their big voice when they introduce themselves, ask questions, or just say “Hello.”

• SHARE A SMILE! They know how easy it is to turn someone’s frown upside-down by telling a joke or sharing a kind word.