Instructors
Our instructors are dedicated teachers and lifelong students, committed to preserving classical Budo through disciplined training, study, and personal example.
Sensei Aaron Usatch
Sensei Aaron Usatch is the Head Instructor of the CARSA Shorinji Ryu Academy at the University of Victoria and an Assistant Instructor at the Shaolin-Tzu Martial Arts Academy. He began his martial arts training in 1994 and has remained a dedicated student and practitioner ever since.
Known as a committed teacher and lifelong learner, Sensei Usatch has traveled extensively throughout Canada, the United States, Japan, and Okinawa to study Karate and classical martial arts under many respected instructors. Through this experience, he has come to believe that Karate is not confined to rigid styles, but is built upon shared principles — much like music, where many expressions arise from the same foundation.
He holds the Shogō title of Renshi (Polished Teacher), a Martial Arts Title of Cardinal Honour awarded by the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai, along with an international rank of Godan (5th degree black belt) in Shorinji-Ryu Karate-Do and Sandan (3rd degree black belt) in Ryukyu Hokama Kobujutsu (Okinawan weaponry).
In addition to traditional martial arts, Sensei Usatch has trained and competed in amateur boxing and Tae Kwon Do, further informing his understanding of movement, timing, and practical application.
Lifelong Study & Travel
Training in classical Budo is a lifelong pursuit. Sensei Usatch continues to travel and study with instructors across Canada, the United States, mainland Japan, and Okinawa, deepening his understanding of Karate through direct experience and instruction.
Hanshi Richard Mark
Hanshi Richard Mark is the Chief Instructor of Shaolin-Tzu Martial Arts Academy and the Western Canada Representative of the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai, International Division. He has been Sensei Usatch’s primary instructor and mentor for over 25 years, guiding his study of Shorinji-ryu Karate-do, Okinawan Kobudo, and classical budo.
Hanshi Tetsuhiro Hokama
TO-DO
Hanshi Akihito Yagi
Training Meibukan Goju-ryu Karate-do under Hanshi Akihito Yagi
Sensei Patrick McCarthy
Training with Hanshi Patrick McCarthy, a leading authority in classical Okinawan Karate
Godan in Kyoto
Receiving Godan in Kyoto, honoring a milestone of dedication and study.
Instructor of the Year
Recognized as Instructor of the Year — February 2023 at the 28th Winter Training Festival for leadership and service.