Dojo master inspired by Okinawa

Sensei Frik Willemse has devoted his life to the world of martial arts, making it his life’s mission to be the best.

With experience that started when he was nine years old, Sensei Willemse doesn’t regard karate as a sport, but a method of defence and self-discipline.

“My love for martial arts was ignited at a young age. I would sit and watch Bruce Lee kung fu movies with my dad, and I just absolutely loved it. Also all my friends were in a karate club, and if you wanted to be in the ‘in crowd’ karate was the way. So I joined and have loved doing this ever since,” he said.

At that time he considered it merely a social activity where he could meet his friends and just have a good time. Sensei Willemse said it became a lifestyle soon afterwards and taught him important life lessons.

Sensei Willemse started his first karate lesson in 1982 before changing to a more traditional style in 2005. He has trained with some of the greatest in the Okinawan world, leading him to a 25-year black belt champion.

Sensei Willemse opened his own dojo in Newcastle 10 years ago where he shares his love and knowledge of traditional martial arts with others with the same passion.

“I enjoy sharing my knowledge with people. The development and dedication my students show are probably the most rewarding part of it all,” he explained.

Sensei Willemse thinks it is important for people to understand the vast difference between Japanese karate style and the traditional Okinawa Butokukan he practises.

“It is not a sport. It is a fighting art, a life saving skill and has changed my life immensely. The actual forms of Okinawa has unfortunately fallen away throughout modern times, and to most sportsmen it has become about medals and belts.

At my dojo we practise old-school Okinawan traditions. It is about the skills and knowledge and not about colours,” he emphasised.

Sensei Willemse said karate was a natural stress reliever and a way of obtaining good health, but was not an excuse to fight. “It is a fighting art, not a reason to go out and look for a fight.”

When he is not busy sharing his love for martial arts with his students, he spends his time with his wife, Ancel who brings out the softer side in him.

Sensei Willemse said prospective karateka should ensure they were joining for the right reasons, and should look around carefully before just joining a club.

“Decide what type of karate style you want to do. Attend different dojos and see which one caters to your needs. And last of all, remember it takes dedication and daily practise to master the art,” he concluded.